Effortlessly Update Your Autel OBD2 Scanner: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your Autel MaxiDiag MD806 OBD2 scanner up-to-date is crucial for optimal performance and access to the latest features. Regular software updates ensure your tool is equipped with the most recent vehicle coverage, bug fixes, and enhanced functionalities. Autel frequently releases these updates to improve your diagnostic experience. This guide will walk you through the simple process of updating your Autel MD806, ensuring you can quickly get back to diagnosing vehicles with confidence.

Why Keep Your Autel MD806 Updated?

Updating your Autel OBD2 scanner is not just about having the latest software; it’s about maximizing the value and effectiveness of your diagnostic tool. Here are key reasons why regular updates are essential:

Enhanced Vehicle Coverage: As new vehicle models are released, software updates expand the compatibility of your Autel MD806. Updating ensures you can diagnose the newest cars and trucks on the market.
Latest Features and Functions: Updates often introduce new diagnostic features, special functions, and improved user interfaces, enhancing your scanning capabilities.
Bug Fixes and Performance Improvements: Software updates address any known bugs or glitches, leading to a smoother, more reliable, and faster scanning experience.
Improved User Experience: Autel continuously refines its software to be more user-friendly and efficient. Updates can include interface improvements and streamlined workflows.

Two Simple Methods to Update Your Autel MD806

Autel provides two straightforward methods to update your MaxiDiag MD806. Both methods utilize the Maxi PC Suite, Autel’s dedicated software for managing and updating your diagnostic tools. You can choose to update by either:

Micro SD Card: Removing the Micro SD card from your MD806 and connecting it to your computer.
USB Cable: Connecting your MD806 directly to your computer using the provided USB cable.

Regardless of the method you choose, the update procedure within the Maxi PC Suite remains the same. Let’s delve into the step-by-step guide using the Maxi PC Suite.

Step-by-Step Guide: Updating via Maxi PC Suite

This guide outlines the process of updating your Autel MD806 using the Maxi PC Suite, applicable whether you connect via Micro SD card or USB cable.

Preparation

Before starting the update process, ensure you have the following:

Your Autel MaxiDiag MD806 Scanner
A Windows-based Computer: The Maxi PC Suite is compatible with Windows operating systems.
Stable Internet Connection: A reliable internet connection is required to download the update files.
Micro SD Card Reader (if using Micro SD card method) or USB Cable (if using USB cable method)
Your Autel ID and Password: You’ll need your Autel account credentials to log in to the Maxi PC Suite.

Step 1: Download, Install, and Launch Maxi PC Suite

Download Maxi PC Suite: Visit the official Autel website, navigate to the “Support” or “Downloads” section, and find the Maxi PC Suite software. Download the latest version compatible with your Windows PC.
Install Maxi PC Suite: Once downloaded, run the installer file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the Maxi PC Suite on your computer.
Launch Maxi PC Suite: After installation, locate the Maxi PC Suite icon on your desktop or in yourStart Menu and launch the application.

Alt text: Autel Maxi PC Suite login window for software updates

A Log In window will appear.

Step 2: Log In to Your Autel Account

Enter Your Autel ID and Password: In the Log In window, enter your registered Autel ID (usually your email address) and password.
Log In: Click the “Log In” button. If you’ve forgotten your password, click the “[Forget Password?]” link to reset it via the Autel website. If you don’t have an Autel ID, click “Sign up” to create one.
Wait for Update Window: Once logged in, the Maxi PC Suite will connect to Autel servers and check for available updates for your registered device. The Update window will then display.

Step 3: Select Your Product and Serial Number

Product Type and Serial Number: In the Update window, you may be prompted to select your product type and enter the serial number of your Autel MD806. Ensure these details are correctly entered.
Confirm Device: Click “OK” to confirm your device selection and proceed to the update selection screen.

Step 4: Choose and Install Updates

The Update window will display a list of available updates for your Autel MD806. You will typically see software updates for various vehicle makes and systems.

Alt text: Autel Maxi PC Suite vehicle selection screen for MD806 updates

You have two options for selecting updates:

Batch Update:
1. Select Programs: Check the boxes next to the programs you wish to update.
2. Update All: Click the “Update All” button located at the bottom right of the screen to update all selected items at once. Alternatively, click “Select All” at the bottom left to select all available updates and then “Update All”.
Single Update:
1. Find Desired Update: Locate the specific update you want to install from the list.
2. Click Update: Click the “Update” button in the same line as the desired item to update it individually.

The Maxi PC Suite will then download and automatically install the selected updates. Ensure your computer remains connected to the internet and your Autel MD806 is properly connected throughout the download and installation process. The new software versions will replace the older ones.

Managing Installed Programs

The Maxi PC Suite also allows you to manage the programs already installed on your Autel MD806.

Access Installed Programs: Click on the “Installed” tab within the Maxi PC Suite. This will display a list of all programs currently installed on your device.

Alt text: Autel Maxi PC Suite installed programs list for managing software
Uninstall Programs (Optional):
- Batch Uninstall: Select multiple programs by checking the boxes next to them and click “Uninstall All”.
- Single Uninstall: Click the “Uninstall” button next to the specific program you wish to remove.
- Confirmation: A confirmation window “Are you sure to delete the software?” will pop up. Click “OK” to proceed with uninstallation or “Cancel” to quit. Uninstalled programs can be reinstalled later from the “Update” page.

Searching for Programs

To quickly find specific software, use the search box located at the top right corner of the Maxi PC Suite window. Enter keywords to search for programs in both the “Update Available” and “Installed” columns.

Printing Diagnostic Data

The Maxi PC Suite also enables you to print diagnostic data recorded by your Autel MD806.

Connect Scanner to PC: Connect your Autel MD806 to your Windows PC using the USB cable.
Run Autel Printer Software: Launch the Autel Printer software on your computer (this may be included in the Maxi PC Suite installation or downloaded separately from the Autel website).
Select Playback on MD806: On your Autel MD806, navigate to the “Playback” function from the Main Screen. Select the data you want to print from the data menu and choose the “Print” function after reviewing. The selected data will be uploaded to your computer.

Alt text: Autel Printer software interface for printing diagnostic data
Print, Edit, Copy, or Clear Data: The Autel Printer software will display the data. You can then:
- Print: Print the data to a connected printer.
- Edit: Open the data in Notepad for editing.
- Copy: Copy the data to your clipboard.
- Clear: Delete the data from the textbox.
- Exit: Quit the printer operation.
Note: The print function is currently not supported on Mac operating systems.

Conclusion

Keeping your Autel MaxiDiag MD806 OBD2 scanner updated is a simple yet vital process that ensures you have the most capable and reliable diagnostic tool at your disposal. By following these steps to utilize the Maxi PC Suite, you can effortlessly update your scanner and take full advantage of the latest features and vehicle coverage Autel offers. Regular updates are key to maximizing your investment and ensuring accurate and efficient vehicle diagnostics.