For DIY mechanics and car enthusiasts working on older vehicles, finding a reliable and user-friendly scan tool is essential. I recently put the Autel MK808-TS to the test on my 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee, specifically looking to read engine and ABS codes and check out its live data capabilities. Overall, it’s a mixed bag, but let’s dive into the details of this Easy Setup Live Data Scan Tool.
The Upsides of the MK808-TS: User-Friendly and Functional
Firstly, the Autel MK808-TS delivered on its promise of compatibility with older vehicles. From my experience, it worked flawlessly on my 1999 to 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ) models. This is a big win, as not all modern scanners effectively communicate with older OBD2 systems.
More importantly, when it comes to functionality on the Jeep WJ, this tool impressed me. I was able to effortlessly read and clear ABS codes, a function crucial for diagnosing braking issues. Programming SKIM keys, a task that can often require dealer-level tools, was also straightforward. Furthermore, reading engine codes was quick and accurate, providing valuable insights into potential engine problems. The easy setup process was also a plus; I was able to get it running and connected to my Jeep without any complicated procedures. And when it comes to live data, the MK808-TS performed admirably, displaying real-time information from the vehicle’s sensors, which is incredibly useful for diagnosing intermittent issues or monitoring engine performance.
Where the Autel MK808-TS Falls Short
Despite its functional strengths as an easy setup live data scan tool, there are some significant drawbacks that potential buyers need to consider.
One major issue is the limited internal storage. The device comes with 64GB of storage, which seems ample at first glance. However, it’s shockingly insufficient to download and install the complete suite of available updates! This is a critical flaw. Imagine buying a tool from a reputable brand like Autel only to find out it can’t even hold its own software. While adding an SD card is a workaround, it’s an unacceptable oversight for a device in this price range. Competitors often offer devices with sufficient storage right out of the box.
Another point of frustration is the speed, or lack thereof. The MK808-TS feels sluggish. Booting up the software and navigating to the diagnostics menu takes a noticeable 10 seconds. This might not sound like much, but in a professional or even DIY setting, time is valuable. Furthermore, the timeout process when the tool fails to detect the vehicle’s ignition is painfully slow and cannot be cancelled. Waiting over a minute for a simple “key-on” check is poor design and impacts user experience negatively.
Finally, Autel’s update policy is less customer-friendly compared to competitors. They only include one year of updates, while brands like Launch and Xtool typically offer two years. Considering that a year of updates can cost half the price of the tool itself, this is a significant ongoing expense. This policy essentially discourages users from updating, making it almost more economical to buy a new tool after the update period expires. A more reasonable update pricing strategy would likely benefit both Autel and its customers in the long run by encouraging regular software maintenance and feature enhancements.
Final Verdict: Functional but Flawed
Giving it an overall rating, the Autel MK808-TS gets a 2-star rating from me. It loses points for the inadequate storage and the slow performance, and the update policy is also a significant negative. While it functions well as an easy setup live data scan tool and is reliable for older Jeeps, these shortcomings are hard to ignore. For potential buyers, especially those needing extensive vehicle coverage and long-term value, it’s worth weighing these drawbacks against the tool’s capabilities and considering alternatives.
