How to Update My Autel Scanner

Like your phone, the Autel scanner will periodically receive software updates and upgrades. Regular software updates ensure you have coverage for the latest vehicles, correct existing issues and vulnerabilities, and further improve the fault code library, enhance, and add special features.

However, Autel scanner software updates aren't always free. Most Autel scanners come with one year of free software updates, and some scanners offer two years of free software updates. After the free software updates expire, you'll need to purchase software updates, and the price of these updates varies depending on the Autel scanner.

Today, we will provide a comprehensive introduction to the upgrade methods for Autel scanners, covering the steps during the free update period, how to purchase and use the software upgrade service after the subscription expires, and our advantages over other Autel dealers, to help you fully resolve any questions you may encounter during the upgrade process.

It is important to keep your Autel scanner software updated.

What Happens When I Lose a Software Update?

When you lose the software update service, your current version of the Autel scanner will be retained, the Autel diagnostic tablet will still function normally with diagnostic and service features, no software will be deleted, and your downloads will still be present and functioning properly.

However, when the subscription expires, Autel scanners will no longer support online functionality, and automatic authentication and server subscriptions will become unavailable. The topology features supported by the Ultra series scanners also require a valid software subscription to access the server, which can affect diagnostic accuracy.

Preparation Before Updating

Before updating the Autel scanner, you need to make preparations to avoid data loss, network instability, and other issues that may cause update failures. Therefore, you need to ensure the following preparations:

1. Ensure a stable and reliable network environment

   The update process requires downloading a large amount of data, so maintaining a good network connection is crucial. Connect your Autel scanner to a Wi-Fi network with a strong, fast, and stable signal.

   If your Wi-Fi connection is poor or you need to perform a large firmware update, you'll need to prepare a Windows computer with internet access and an original USB data cable as a backup for the software update.

2. Ensure sufficient power

   Software updates often take a long time because they involve a large amount of data. If your Autel scanner isn't fully charged, the update may be interrupted.

   Therefore, before updating, ensure your Autel scanner has sufficient power, preferably above 50%. For best results, always keep it connected to a power source during the update.

3. Back up important data

   Although updates usually do not erase vehicle data, it is still necessary to back up important data just in case. If you have important vehicle diagnostic reports, you can use the backup function to save the data to an SD card or USB drive. Sometimes updates require upgrading both the tablet software and the VCI firmware.

   

   Check the storage status and back up important data before updating.

4. Check subscription status

   Before you begin an update, it's best to check whether your free update service is still valid. Access the Update Center, where your service expiration date will typically be displayed.

   If your service has expired, you may not be able to download the latest database and feature updates and will need to purchase a paid upgrade (see Section 6 for details).

Autel Scanner Update Steps (During Free Subscription Period)

1. Power on your device and connect to WiFi
   • Press the power switch to turn on the Autel scanner
   • Enter the settings interface and turn on the WiFi connection
   • Choose a stable WiFi connection
2. Log in to the scanner using your Autel ID
   • Find and open the Update app on the home screen.
   • If prompted, enter your Autel ID and password to log in.
   • Make sure the account is linked to your device's serial number; otherwise, updates may not be available.
   

   Please log in to the device with your Autel ID to perform subsequent updates.

3. Review available updates and click Install
   • After logging in, you will be taken to the Update page.
   • The system will automatically detect your device model and display all available firmware and software updates.
   • Click the Update/Install button. The system will automatically download and install the updates.
4. Restart your Autel scanner
   • After the installation is complete, you will be prompted to restart your device.
   • After restarting, you will be able to use the latest software and features in the diagnostics menu.

You can also watch the video below to learn how:

Autel Software Subscription Renewal Operation Guide

Four Ways to Renew Your Software Subscription for Autel Scanners

• Purchase a TCP card from an authorized AUTEL dealer or retailer such as OBDPRICE store and enter the number on the back.
• Buy directly on your Scanner Tools
• Visit pro.autel.com and log in with your Autel ID. Click the Outdated Software link to determine which of your tools require a software update.
• Chat with an AUTEL Customer Support Specialist

Why buy update service from us?

We are Autel Authorized Dealer, we offer better price than others.

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:

Common Update Problems and Solutions

1. What to do if the update fails?

To check the network connection status, restart the device and update again or use PC Suite to update.

2. What should I do if I want to update my handheld code reader?

Among the vast product tools of Autel scanners, the handheld scanner OBD2 code reader has lifetime free updates, and the software upgrade service can only be upgraded through SD card and cannot be upgraded online.

3. What does it mean when it says "Subscription Expired"?

This means that the free software update service has expired and you need to purchase the paid software upgrade service to continue to enjoy some of the features brought by the subscription service.

Conclusion

Keeping your Autel scanner up to date ensures continued coverage of the latest vehicle models and OE-level diagnostic capabilities. Renew your subscription promptly after the free period ends to avoid any interruptions. Regular updates and renewals ensure optimal performance and value.