For automotive enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike, having a reliable scan tool is indispensable. The Autel MK808-TS has garnered attention for its comprehensive features, including its ability to function as an Abs Program Scan Tool. This review delves into the experiences of a user who tested the MK808-TS on a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee, focusing particularly on its capabilities as an abs program scan tool.
The Positives: Reliable ABS Functionality on Older Jeep Models
One of the standout features of the Autel MK808-TS, as highlighted by user experience, is its reliable performance on older vehicles. Specifically, it has been tested and confirmed to work effectively on Jeep Grand Cherokees manufactured between 1999 and 2004. This is significant because not all modern scan tools maintain compatibility with older vehicle models, especially when it comes to complex systems like ABS.
Alt: Diagnosing a Jeep Grand Cherokee’s ABS system using the Autel MK808-TS program scan tool.
The user reported successful engagement with various functions on the Jeep WJ model. Crucially, the tool adeptly reads and clears ABS codes, a primary function for any effective abs program scan tool. This capability allows users to diagnose and resolve issues within the Anti-lock Braking System, ensuring vehicle safety and performance. Beyond ABS, the MK808-TS also demonstrated proficiency in other areas, including programming SKIM keys and reading engine codes and live data. This all-around functionality makes it a versatile tool for Jeep owners and mechanics working on these models.
The Negatives: Areas for Improvement in the MK808-TS
Despite its strengths as an abs program scan tool and broader diagnostic tool, the Autel MK808-TS is not without its shortcomings. Several areas have been identified as needing improvement, impacting the overall user experience.
Insufficient Internal Storage for Complete Updates
A major drawback highlighted is the insufficient 64GB of internal storage. Astonishingly, this capacity is not enough to accommodate the complete suite of available updates for the tool itself. This limitation is perplexing, as a diagnostic tool should ideally be able to store all its own software and updates without requiring external memory immediately. While the option to add an SD card exists, it feels like an unnecessary inconvenience for a professional-grade tool. In today’s market, where flash memory is readily affordable, providing at least 128GB of internal storage would be a more user-friendly approach. This would ensure users can keep their abs program scan tool and other diagnostic functionalities fully updated without storage concerns.
Sluggish Performance and Slow Operation
Another point of criticism is the tool’s speed. The MK808-TS is described as slow, with noticeable delays in operation. For instance, simply launching the software and navigating to the vehicle diagnostics section can take a considerable 10 seconds. This sluggishness can impede workflow, especially in a busy automotive repair environment where time is of the essence.
Alt: Slow software loading time on the Autel MK808-TS diagnostic and ABS program scan tool.
Furthermore, the tool’s handling of connection timeouts is criticized. If the ignition key is not turned to the “on” position, the MK808-TS takes an excessively long time to time out, reportedly over a minute. This delay is compounded by the inability to cancel the timeout process. Such design logic flaws can lead to frustration and wasted time, especially when users make minor oversights during the diagnostic process. A more responsive and user-friendly design would include faster processing speeds and quicker, cancellable timeout procedures.
Limited Update Period and Costly Renewals
The update policy of the Autel MK808-TS is another significant concern. It only includes one year of free updates, which is less generous compared to competitors like Launch and Xtool, which often provide two years of updates with their tools. Considering that updates are crucial for maintaining the tool’s effectiveness, especially for an abs program scan tool which needs to stay current with new vehicle models and diagnostic protocols, this limitation is significant.
The cost of renewing updates is also a point of contention. The annual update subscription is reportedly half the price of the tool itself. This pricing model makes continuous updates economically questionable for some users. The argument is made that a more profitable long-term strategy for these companies would be to offer updates at a lower price point, encouraging more users to renew their subscriptions rather than opting to purchase a new tool altogether when updates expire. This is particularly relevant in the software market, where profit margins are typically higher than in hardware sales. A more affordable update model would enhance customer loyalty and ensure users can keep their abs program scan tool and other diagnostic capabilities current without prohibitive costs.
Overall Assessment
In conclusion, the Autel MK808-TS demonstrates solid capability as an abs program scan tool, particularly noted for its reliable performance on older Jeep Grand Cherokee models. Its ability to read and clear ABS codes, along with other diagnostic functions, makes it a useful tool for its intended purpose.
Alt: ABS diagnostic menu options on the Autel MK808-TS scan tool interface.
However, several drawbacks temper its overall appeal. The insufficient internal storage, slow operating speed, and less favorable update policy are significant shortcomings. While the MK808-TS functions effectively as an abs program scan tool and diagnostic device, these limitations detract from the overall user experience and value proposition. For potential buyers, weighing these pros and cons is crucial in determining if the Autel MK808-TS meets their specific needs and expectations for an automotive diagnostic tool and abs program scan tool.
