The Autel MK808-TS scan tool has garnered attention within the DIY and professional automotive repair communities for its comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, particularly its bidirectional control and live data streaming features. This review delves into a user’s experience with the MK808-TS on a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses as a bidirectional scan tool, especially concerning its live data functionality.
Evaluating the Strengths: Bidirectional Control and Live Data on a Jeep WJ
For owners of older vehicles like the Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ (1999-2004), finding scan tools that offer robust bidirectional control and accurate live data can be challenging. Many generic OBD2 scanners provide basic code reading, but fall short when it comes to advanced diagnostics. The user’s positive experience with the Autel MK808-TS on their 1999 Jeep underscores its effectiveness in this area.
The reviewer specifically praises the tool’s reliability and functionality on the Jeep WJ platform, noting that “ALL functions I’ve tried so far work well.” This is significant because bidirectional scan tools allow mechanics to not just read diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), but also to send commands to the vehicle to test specific components. This capability is crucial for efficient troubleshooting and verifying repairs.
Key highlights of the MK808-TS’s bidirectional and live data capabilities on the Jeep WJ, as experienced by the user, include:
- Reading and Clearing ABS Codes: The ability to access and clear ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) codes is essential for diagnosing and resolving braking system issues. Live data from ABS sensors can further pinpoint problems, showing real-time readings of wheel speed and other relevant parameters.
- Programming SKIM Keys: SKIM (Sentry Key Immobilizer Module) key programming is a valuable feature, especially for older vehicles where key issues are common. This function, enabled by bidirectional communication, allows users to program new keys directly through the scan tool, bypassing dealership visits for this task.
- Reading Engine Codes and Live Data: Accessing engine codes is a standard OBD2 function, but the MK808-TS goes further by providing comprehensive live data streaming. This “live data” functionality is a cornerstone of bidirectional scan tools, allowing technicians to monitor a multitude of engine parameters in real-time as the vehicle is running. This includes sensor readings (like oxygen sensors, MAF sensor, crankshaft position sensor), engine temperature, RPM, fuel trim, and much more. Analyzing this live data is invaluable for diagnosing intermittent issues, performance problems, and confirming sensor functionality.
Alt text: Autel MK808-TS bidirectional scan tool displaying live engine data parameters on its screen during a diagnostic session.
The user’s satisfaction with these functions highlights the MK808-TS as a capable bidirectional scan tool for Jeep vehicles, particularly for accessing live data which is crucial for in-depth diagnostics.
Addressing the Drawbacks: Storage, Speed, and Update Policy
While the MK808-TS demonstrates competency as a bidirectional scan tool with effective live data capabilities, the user review also points out significant shortcomings that potential buyers should consider. These issues, while not directly related to the core bidirectional functionality, impact the overall user experience.
The “Bad” aspects raised by the reviewer include:
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Insufficient Internal Storage: The 64GB internal storage is criticized as inadequate for storing all available updates. This is a major inconvenience as users may need to purchase an SD card to fully update their tool. For a device designed for comprehensive diagnostics, having insufficient storage out-of-the-box is a significant oversight. This can impact the tool’s long-term performance and access to the latest vehicle coverage and software improvements, which are vital for a bidirectional scan tool to remain effective with newer models and updated systems.
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Slow Operation Speed: The tool’s sluggish performance, with delays in software loading and diagnostics initiation, is another point of concern. In a professional setting where time is money, slow tool operation can be frustrating and reduce efficiency. When working with live data, a responsive tool is crucial for capturing and analyzing information in real-time without lag or delays.
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Limited Update Period: The inclusion of only one year of free updates, compared to the two years offered by competitors like Launch and Xtool, is seen as a disadvantage. Updates are critical for bidirectional scan tools as they provide access to the latest vehicle models, expanded functions, bug fixes, and improved software performance. The cost of updates after the first year can be substantial, potentially making the long-term cost of ownership higher compared to tools with more generous update policies. For users relying on live data and advanced functions, keeping the tool updated is essential to maintain its diagnostic capabilities.
Alt text: Close-up view of the Autel MK808-TS bidirectional scan tool’s user interface displaying vehicle diagnostic menu options.
Conclusion: A Capable Bidirectional Scan Tool with Caveats
The Autel MK808-TS proves to be a functional bidirectional scan tool, particularly effective for older vehicles like the Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ, where its ability to read and clear ABS codes, program SKIM keys, and access comprehensive engine live data is highly valuable. For users prioritizing these bidirectional control and live data features for specific vehicle makes like Jeep, the MK808-TS can be a worthwhile investment.
However, potential buyers must weigh these advantages against the noted drawbacks. The limited storage, slow speed, and restrictive update policy are significant considerations. For professionals or users who require a fast, future-proof tool with ample storage and longer update periods, exploring alternatives might be prudent. Ultimately, the Autel MK808-TS offers a compelling set of bidirectional scan tool and live data features at its price point, but users should be aware of its limitations to make an informed decision based on their specific diagnostic needs and budget.
