Cheap - But is it Good? Autel MK808S FULL TEST

Summary

This video showcases the Autel MK808, a professional-level handheld diagnostic tool that delivers comprehensive vehicle diagnostics at an affordable price. The host unboxes the unit, highlights its hardwired connection benefits, and walks through setup and auto vehicle detection. Viewers are guided through scanning control units, reading and erasing fault codes, and performing live data analysis with customizable graphs. The video also demonstrates active tests, service functions like DPF regeneration and injector adjustments, and data management features. With professional capabilities comparable to manufacturer tools, the Autel MK808 is praised for its usability, speed, and extensive diagnostic features, making it ideal for mechanics and enthusiasts.

Takeaways

• 📦 The Autel MK808 comes with the diagnostic unit, OBD cable, charger, and optionally a hard case for protection.
• ⚡ The hardwired version ensures the tool is always charged and ready to use, reducing the risk of forgetting it in the car.
• 🔄 Initial setup is simple, and the tool includes 1 year of free software updates, with a subscription of $125/year thereafter.
• 🚗 The auto-detect feature quickly identifies the vehicle and chassis information, while EOBD allows for generic engine diagnostics.
• 🛠️ Users can perform control unit scans or full auto scans to check fault codes across all vehicle modules.
• ⚠️ Fault codes provide detailed information, including DTC guides and the ability to search online for further clarification.
• 📊 Live data can be viewed in bar chart, graph, or merged formats, with automatic recording and the ability to scroll, freeze, and review past data.
• 🔧 Active tests allow users to activate components like lights, horn, injectors, and adjust parameters such as RPM and fuel rail pressure.
• 🛢️ Hot functions and service functions offer professional-level features, including DPF regeneration, SCR testing, injector coding, and chassis or braking initializations.
• 💾 The data manager stores vehicle history and recorded diagnostics for review, with options to customize graph displays and clear old data.
• 🌐 Quick Link integration allows users to connect professional accounts for AllData, AutoData, Hannes Pro, and other service information platforms.
• 💡 Overall, the MK808 provides an affordable, professional-grade diagnostic solution with comprehensive live data monitoring and service capabilities.

Q & A

What items are included in the Autel MK808 package?

The package includes the handheld Autel MK808 unit, an OBD cable, a charger, and optionally a hard case for protection.

What are the benefits of using the hardwired cable version of the MK808?

The hardwired cable version ensures the device is always charged when connected, reduces the risk of forgetting it in the car, and requires less frequent charging compared to wireless versions.

How does the MK808 handle vehicle connection and detection?

When connected to a car, a green car symbol confirms connection. Users can use 'Auto Detect' to identify the vehicle model, chassis number, and all control units.

What is the difference between 'Control Unit Scan' and 'Auto Scan'?

'Control Unit Scan' lists all available control units without checking for faults, whereas 'Auto Scan' scans all modules for fault codes and diagnostic information.

How can users view and interpret live data using the MK808?

Users can select specific data points, view them as bar charts, graphs, or merged graphs (up to four data points). Data can be frozen, scrolled, reviewed, and recorded for later analysis.

What active tests can be performed with the MK808?

Active tests include activating headlamps, horn, injectors, fans, adjusting fuel rail pressure, and modifying engine RPM. Available tests depend on vehicle-specific manufacturer settings.

What are 'Hot Functions' and 'Service' menus used for?

These menus provide professional-level service functions such as DPF regeneration, injector quantity adjustment, SCR system testing, battery monitoring, oil service reset, headlamp alignment, and LIN module initialization.

How does the MK808 manage recorded data?

The 'Data Manager' stores live data recordings, reports, and vehicle history. Users can playback, visualize as graphs, scrub through data, and focus on selected parameters.

Are all active tests guaranteed to work on every vehicle?

No, active test functionality depends on the vehicle's manufacturer settings. Some commands may not work even on manufacturer-level diagnostic tools.

What professional features make the MK808 comparable to manufacturer-level tools?

Features include comprehensive control unit scanning, live data visualization, active tests, service and hot functions for powertrain, chassis, body, and electrical systems, and integration with OEM data systems through Quick Link.

How does the MK808 handle software updates and subscriptions?

The tool comes with one year of free updates. After that, users can subscribe for $125 per year to receive new updates, ensuring the device remains current with vehicle diagnostics.

What makes the live data feature of the MK808 particularly useful?

Live data is automatically recorded from the moment the tool is connected, allowing users to scroll through and analyze past readings, compare with other vehicles, and monitor engine or system performance over time.