Finding an affordable, powerful, and full-featured scan tool with all the bells and whistles (think Windows tablet functionality, WIFI, etc.) can be a real challenge. Price is often the biggest hurdle, with many desirable devices falling in the $1,500 to $4,000 range. However, the Autel MaxiDAS DS708 offers a high-end solution at a more accessible price point. This guide, along with the Autel Maxidas Ds708 Manual, will help you understand and utilize this powerful diagnostic tool.
Finding an Affordable Autel MaxiDAS DS708
While prices for new units can be steep, used Autel MaxiDAS DS708 scanners can often be found on eBay for significantly less. With careful searching, you might find a scanner-only unit for around $250 or a complete kit for $500 to $850.
Important Note: Damaged or non-working units are generally not repairable if the SD card is missing or unreadable. Always confirm the SD card’s condition before purchasing a used DS708.
Autel MaxiDAS DS708 Features and Capabilities
The Autel MaxiDAS DS708 boasts impressive diagnostic capabilities, covering a wide range of domestic, European, and Asian vehicles. Its bi-directional control and live data functionalities make it a valuable tool for professional and DIY mechanics alike. This scanner excels in:
- Comprehensive vehicle coverage
- Accurate diagnostics
- Live module testing
- Bi-directional control
Downloading the Autel MaxiDAS DS708 Software
Before using your DS708, it’s crucial to download the latest software from the official Autel website: https://www.autel.com/download.jhtml. This ensures optimal performance and access to the most up-to-date features and vehicle coverage. Having the software pre-downloaded is especially important if your purchased unit is missing the original installation CD.
Backing Up Your Autel MaxiDAS DS708 SD Card
The SD card in the DS708 is critical for its operation. Creating a backup is essential to protect against data loss or corruption. Here’s how to back up the SD card for both Linux and Windows users:
Linux Backup Method
- Identify the SD Card: Use
sudo fdisk -lto identify the SD card’s device name (e.g., /dev/mmcblk0). - Unmount the SD Card: Use
sudo umount /dev/mmcblk0. - Create an Image:
sudo dd if=/dev/mmcblk0 of=~/sd-card-copy.img bs=4M status=progress. Using a larger block size (bs=4M) significantly speeds up the process. - Write to a New SD Card: Insert a new, formatted SD card (preferably larger than the original). Identify its device name and unmount it. Then use
sudo dd if=~/sd-card-copy.img of=/dev/mmcblk0 bs=4M status=progressto write the image to the new card.
Windows Backup Method
For Windows users, several disk imaging software options are available with similar functionalities. Research and choose a reputable software to create a complete image of the DS708’s SD card.
Conclusion
The Autel MaxiDAS DS708 is a powerful diagnostic tool capable of handling a wide range of vehicle makes and models. By understanding its features and taking the necessary precautions, like backing up the SD card, you can ensure its longevity and maximize its diagnostic potential. Refer to the autel maxidas ds708 manual for detailed instructions and troubleshooting. Finding a used unit can provide significant cost savings, making professional-grade diagnostics more accessible.
