How To Update Vgate Maxiscan Vs890 May 2026

How to Update Vgate Maxiscan VS890: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

The Vgate Maxiscan VS890 is one of the most popular OBD2 scanners on the market for DIY mechanics and car enthusiasts. It bridges the gap between a basic code reader and a high-end professional scan tool. However, like any sophisticated piece of electronic diagnostic equipment, its performance depends heavily on having the latest firmware and software.

If you have just purchased a VS890, or if you are noticing that it won’t read certain systems on newer car models (2023–2025 vehicles), you likely need an update. Outdated firmware can lead to:

This guide will walk you through every single step of how to update Vgate Maxiscan VS890, including preparation, downloading the correct tool, performing the update, and troubleshooting common errors. how to update vgate maxiscan vs890


Part 9: Alternative Method – Updating via SD Card (Older VS890 Models)

Some early batch VS890 units support SD card updates if you lack a Windows PC.

Procedure:

  1. Format a microSD card (FAT32 format).
  2. Download the firmware .bin file from Vgate.
  3. Rename the file to VS890.BIN (case sensitive).
  4. Copy it to the root of the SD card.
  5. Insert the SD card into the VS890 (slot usually under the battery).
  6. Turn on the device. It will automatically detect the file and ask: "Update firmware? Yes/No."
  7. Select Yes and wait.

Note: This method is being phased out. Most modern VS890 units require the PC method.


Step 4: Flash the Firmware

  1. Click “Start Update” in the PC software.
  2. A progress bar will appear. Do not disconnect the cable.
  3. The VS890 screen may flicker or go dark – this is normal.
  4. After 2–3 minutes, the PC will show “Update Successful”.

Step 3: Launch the Updater in “Recovery Mode”

The VS890 enters a special mode only when powered off and then connected. How to Update Vgate Maxiscan VS890: The Ultimate

  1. Run the VS890 Updater.exe as Administrator (right-click > Run as administrator).
  2. In the updater window, select the firmware .bin file you downloaded.
  3. Now connect the USB cable to your PC.
  4. Within 5 seconds, the VS890 screen will turn on showing “Updating…” or “USB Mode”. If you see normal menus, restart the process (the PC didn’t detect the device in time).

Why This Feature Matters

Without updates, your VS890 may fail to communicate with newer car ECUs (2020+ models), display incorrect DTC codes, or lose access to enhanced live data. Vgate releases firmware updates to fix these issues.