Do You Need to Update Your Autel Scanner Annually?

Autel scanners typically come with a free year of software upgrades after purchase, allowing you to enjoy free subscription features. But when the free software upgrade expires, should you renew the upgrade service? Do you need to subscribe annually? And how do you upgrade your Autel scanner? Let's take a look and answer your questions.

You can choose whether to renew Autel software updates.

What Do You Get With an Autel Subscription?

OEMS Security Gateway Acquisition

With the rapid development of the automotive industry, many vehicles require server connections for even the most basic diagnostics, testing, and maintenance for higher safety. Diagnosing a vehicle with a higher level of safety requires gateway access.

During the subscription period, Autel scanners can access a secure gateway subscription, helping you better diagnose vehicles, expand diagnostic coverage, and broaden your repair shop's business.

Topological Functions And High-precision Vin Scanning

With an Autel subscription for the MaxiSys Ultra series, you gain access to the factory vehicle communication network, module information, and topology, ensuring more accurate VIN scanning and diagnosis.

Furthermore, a subscription allows you to work with experienced programmers via a remote expert platform to provide factory module and data support for new models.

The Autel Ultra S2 supports the topology map function.

VCI Protocols & Tablet Coverage

A valid Autel subscription enables your tablet and VCI to work more efficiently. Typically, the protocol software is simplified and optimized to work with the device's hardware. If you are unable to connect to the vehicle, update the software on the VCI.

Do You Need to Update Your Autel Scanner Annually?

What Happens If You Lose Your Subscription?

Even if you choose not to renew your software, your Autel diagnostics tablet will still function properly. Diagnostic and service capabilities are still on your tablet; no software has been removed. All manufacturer-related software updates downloaded on your tablet and VCI are still present.

All Android and Autel MaxiSYS firmware are present and functioning as before. But depending on the make, model, and year of the vehicles you are servicing, you may need an active Autel subscription to get the job done.

But with that said, for all the reasons I pointed out above, without an active subscription you are not getting the full return on your tablet investment.

Do you have to renew Autel software upgrade service every year?

The answer is no. You don't necessarily need to renew your software update subscription every year. This depends on the vehicle you're diagnosing and whether you require the subscription-required features mentioned above.

Even without a subscription, you can still use the diagnostic features normally, though some advanced features may be limited. Whether you continue to subscribe depends solely on your specific needs.

How much does it cost to upgrade Autel Scanner?

Autel scanners come in a variety of models, and the corresponding upgrade card prices vary depending on the model. You can purchase the upgrade card through the update section on your tablet, or purchase a TCP card for activation from an authorized dealer.

Choose our OBDPRICE store. We are an Autel Authorized Dealer and offer better prices than others. The autel software update fee can be found in the table below:

How to Update Your Autel Scanner?

Autel Scanners Update Methods

Method 1: Update Directly on the Tablet

On your tablet, go to the “Update” section. Here, you can check your current subscription status and click “Renew” to pay directly on the device. Payments are processed in real time, and your update will be available immediately.

Method 2: Update Through an Authorized Dealer

You can also purchase updates through one of our authorized dealers for better price. Simply select the correct product model, purchase the subscription, and then use the activation code to renew your software.

Method 3: Update via PC (Autel Website)

Visit pro.autel.com and log in with your Autel ID. Once logged in, go to the update purchase section, select your device, and complete the purchase to extend your subscription.

Update Autel Scanner By a TCP Card: Step-by-step Guide

1. Confirm the device model and purchase the correct TCP card

   You need to purchase a TCP card before upgrading. Please confirm your device model and purchase the correct software upgrade card.

   After purchasing the software update service, please provide the Autel scanner's serial number. You can enter the serial number in the order notes or contact customer service directly to obtain an activation code.

2. Maintain a stable network connection

   Both free upgrade services and paid subscription upgrades require a stable network connection to ensure that the upgrade can proceed normally and will not be interrupted by network problems.

   

   Steps for upgrading using a TCP card.

3. Open the Update menu and select Payment Methods

   Select the Update section to enter the menu, click Renew in the upper left corner to enter the payment method selection interface. Select Autel TCP Card and enter the activation code you received.

4. Check for available updates and install them

   After completing the above operations, you can continue to receive one-year software update service and select the content you want to update in the update menu to install it.

The following video can help you better understand the whole operation process: