The Autel MaxiDAS DS708 is a powerful and full-featured auto scan tool that offers professional-grade diagnostics at a more affordable price than many high-end competitors. This guide explores the DS708’s capabilities, resources for buyers, and crucial steps for backing up its essential software.
Finding an Affordable, High-Quality Scan Tool
Professional-grade automotive scan tools with features like Windows tablet functionality, touchscreen interface, and WIFI often come with a hefty price tag, typically ranging from $1,500 to $4,000. However, the Autel MaxiDAS DS708 offers a compelling alternative. This powerful scan tool provides extensive bi-directional diagnostic and live module testing capabilities for a fraction of the cost. It’s capable of diagnosing a wide range of vehicles, including GM, GMC, other North American makes and models, as well as many European and Asian vehicles.
Used DS708 scan tools can often be found on eBay for significantly less than the original retail price, with prices ranging from $250 for the scanner alone to $500-$850 for complete kits.
Important Note: Damaged DS708 units with missing or unreadable SD cards are generally not repairable.
DS708 Resources and Software
Before purchasing a used DS708, it’s highly recommended to download the original Autel MaxiDAS DS708 software suite from the official Autel website: https://www.autel.com/download.jhtml. This allows you to install the software on your Windows computer, which is especially important if the purchased kit is missing the original installation CD/DVD.
Here are some additional resources and examples of the DS708 in action:
- How to Repair a Power Disconnect Problem on a DS708: (Insert Video Link if Available)
- How to Change the Touch Screen on a DS708: (Insert Video Link if Available)
- GM Throttle Body Reset Using a DS708: (Insert Video Link if Available)
- How to Replace the PCM in a Honda Pilot Using a DS708: (Insert Video Link if Available)
- How to Reprogram Hyundai Ignition Keys via a DS708: (Insert Video Link if Available)
Backing Up the DS708 SD Card: A Critical First Step
The DS708 relies on an SD card for its operating system and software. Creating a backup of this SD card is paramount. A damaged or lost SD card can render the DS708 unusable. While Autel offers subscription services to restore functionality, these can be expensive (around $500 per year).
Creating a backup involves more than simply copying files. Here’s a breakdown of the process for Linux users:
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Identify the SD Card: Use the command
sudo fdisk -lto identify the SD card’s device name (e.g., /dev/mmcblk0). -
Unmount the SD Card: Use the command
sudo umount /dev/mmcblk0. -
Create an Image File: Create a mirror image of the SD card using the command:
sudo dd if=/dev/mmcblk0 of=~/sd-card-copy.img bs=1M status=progress. This process will take time. A larger block size (e.g., bs=4M) can speed up the process:sudo dd if=/dev/mmcblk0 of=~/sd-card-copy.img bs=4M.
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Insert a New SD Card: Insert a blank, formatted SD card (preferably larger than the original) and identify its device name using
sudo fdisk -l. Unmount the new card as well. -
Write the Image to the New Card: Write the saved image file to the new SD card:
sudo dd if=~/sd-card-copy.img of=/dev/mmcblk0 bs=1M status=progress. This process will be slower than creating the image.
Windows users can utilize disk management software suites with similar functionalities. After creating the backup, test the new SD card in the DS708 to ensure it boots and functions correctly. Store the original SD card and the backup image file in a safe place.
