For auto repair enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike, the quest for a powerful, full-featured diagnostic scan tool often hits a roadblock: price. Many dream of owning a high-end scanner with touchscreen capabilities, Wi-Fi connectivity, and advanced functions, only to be deterred by price tags that can easily reach thousands of dollars. The reality is, top-tier diagnostic equipment often seems locked away in a realm of “wishful thinking” for those mindful of their budget. These tools, boasting comprehensive features, typically settle in the hefty $1,500 to $4,000 price range, putting them out of reach for many.
However, technology evolves, and with patience, prices do come down. Savvy buyers know that opportunities arise to find high-quality, full-featured scan tool kits, complete with excellent bi-directional diagnostic and live module testing capabilities, often on platforms like eBay. The ideal scan tool not only caters to specific vehicle brands like GM and GMC but also offers accurate diagnostics for a broad spectrum of North American, European, and Asian makes and models.
Enter the Autel MaxiDAS DS708 diagnostic scan tool. This device stands out as a “high-end” scanner that impressively covers all these crucial aspects, without the premium price. By exploring eBay, you might discover listings for the DS708 starting from around $250 for the scanner unit alone, with complete kits ranging from $500 to $850. This price point makes professional-grade diagnostics accessible to a wider audience.
Important Caution Regarding Damaged Units: Be aware that Autel MaxiDAS DS708 units with missing or unreadable SD cards are generally not repairable. The SD card is crucial for the scanner’s operation.
Discovering the Autel MaxiDAS DS708 on eBay
Autel Maxidas Ds708 for sale | eBay
eBay offers a diverse selection of Autel MaxiDAS DS708 scan tools. You can often find excellent deals on both new and used units, making professional diagnostics more affordable.
During a recent search (February 2022), a complete Autel MaxiDAS DS708 scan tool kit was found for under $400, which was an opportunity too good to pass up. The images below showcase the unboxing and operational verification of such a purchase, demonstrating the potential value available on the used market.
Maximizing Your Autel MaxiDAS DS708: Resources and Usage
To further assist those considering or already owning an Autel MaxiDAS DS708 diagnostic scan tool, several resources are available to enhance your understanding and usage:
Essential Software Download:
It’s highly recommended to download the original Autel MaxiDAS DS-708 software suite directly from Autel’s official website. This proactive step ensures you have the necessary software, even if the original CD/DVD is missing from a used kit purchased online.
Autel Software Download Center
Practical Usage Examples and Troubleshooting Guides:
Numerous online tutorials and videos demonstrate the capabilities of the Autel MaxiDAS DS708 and provide solutions to common issues. Here are a few examples showcasing its versatility:
- How to Repair a Power Disconnect Problem on an Autel MAXI-DAS DS-708 Scanner (Replace with actual link if available)
- How to Change the Touch Screen on an Autel MAXI-DAS DS-708 Scanner (Replace with actual link if available)
- GM Throttle Body Re-Set for a 2007 GMC Yukon using an Autel MAXI-DAS DS-708 Scanner (Replace with actual link if available)
- How to Replace the PCM in a 2005 Honda Pilot using an Autel MAXI-DAS DS-708 (Replace with actual link if available)
- How to Re-Program a Pair of 2012 Hyundai Ignition Keys via an Autel MAXI-DAS DS-708 (Replace with actual link if available)
(Note: Please replace the placeholder YouTube video links above with actual relevant video links for each topic to further enhance the article’s helpfulness.)
Critical First Step: Backing Up Your SD Card
Once you acquire an Autel MaxiDAS DS-708, your immediate priority should be creating a backup of the original SD card. This small component, housing the scanner’s operating system and software, is vulnerable to damage or loss, and is essential for the device’s functionality. The SD card slot is typically located in the bottom panel of the DS-708 scanner.
Losing or damaging this SD card can render the scanner unusable in its current form. Recovery might involve purchasing a blank SD card, registering with Autel, and potentially paying for a subscription to restore the software, which can be costly (around $500.00 for a one-year subscription).
Creating an SD Card Backup (For Advanced Users):
For users comfortable with technical procedures, creating a mirror image backup of the SD card is highly recommended. The following outlines the process for Linux users, and similar disk management software options are available for Windows users.
Linux SD Card Backup Procedure:
- Identify the SD Card: Open a terminal and use the command
sudo fdisk -lto list disk partitions and identify your SD card device (e.g.,/dev/mmcblk0). - Unmount the SD Card: Before proceeding, unmount the SD card using
sudo umount /dev/mmcblk0. - Create a Mirror Image: Use the
ddcommand to create an image file of the SD card:sudo dd if=/dev/mmcblk0 of=~/sd-card-copy.img bs=1M status=progress. This process may take some time. - Backup to New SD Card (Optional but Recommended): Once the image file (
sd-card-copy.img) is created, you can write it to a new, larger SD card (e.g., 32GB) for expanded storage. First, identify and unmount the new SD card. Then use the command:sudo dd if=~/sd-card-copy.img of=/dev/mmcblk0 bs=1M status=progress.
Windows Users:
Windows users can utilize disk imaging software like Acronis True Image, EaseUS Todo Backup, or similar tools to create a backup image of the SD card. These tools offer user-friendly interfaces to perform similar functions to the Linux dd command.
Final Steps:
After creating the backup, carefully store both the original SD card and the backup image file in a safe place. For those who created a backup SD card, test it in the Autel MaxiDAS DS-708 to ensure it boots up and functions correctly.
Conclusion: Smart Diagnostics Without the Premium Price
The Autel MaxiDAS DS708 diagnostic scan tool presents a compelling option for those seeking professional-level automotive diagnostics without the hefty price tag typically associated with high-end scanners. By leveraging online marketplaces like eBay, you can find these capable tools at significantly reduced prices. With its broad vehicle coverage, bi-directional capabilities, and access to live data, the DS708 offers exceptional value. Remember to prioritize backing up the SD card to safeguard your investment and ensure continued reliable operation. Explore the deals available for the Autel MaxiDAS DS708 and unlock advanced diagnostic capabilities for your automotive needs without breaking the bank.
