Renewing your Autel update licence – the complete guide for workshops
Every Autel diagnostic tool is supplied with an update period – one or two years, depending on the model. When this period ends, the device reports that no new updates can be downloaded. Many workshops then ask themselves: Do I have to renew now – and what happens if I don't? In this guide we explain what an Autel update licence provides, how the renewal works and how to identify the right licence for your device.
What happens when the update subscription expires?
The most important news first: your Autel device remains fully functional. Diagnostics, service functions and the most recently installed software version remain available without restriction. There is no shutdown and no obligation to renew. The only thing you lose is the ability to download new updates.
In everyday workshop life, this becomes noticeable gradually:
- New vehicle models are missing: Vehicles launched after your last update are not recognised, or only to a limited extent.
- New service functions are missing: Autel continuously extends the software with relearn procedures, resets and coding functions – without an update, you miss out on these.
- Bug fixes are missing: Improvements to existing functions and to the system software no longer reach your device.
- Additional unlocks require a valid licence: If you want to unlock the Secure Gateway (SGW) of newer vehicles, you need an active update licence.
If you mainly service older vehicles, you can work without an update for a while. Workshops whose customers drive newer vehicles, on the other hand, notice the difference quickly.
What exactly does an update licence give you?
With an original Autel update licence you extend the update period of your device by 12 months. During this term you download and install all available software and vehicle data updates directly on the device as usual – including new vehicle models, extended diagnostic and service functions and improvements to the system software. This keeps your professional diagnostic tool at workshop level without having to buy a new device.
How the renewal works – step by step
- Have your serial number ready: You will find it in the device settings (menu item "About") and on the sticker on the device.
- Choose the right licence: Each licence applies to a specific model. Our overview of all Autel update licences shows which one belongs to your device.
- Enter the serial number when ordering: The product page has a dedicated mandatory field for this – so the unlock can be carried out without further queries.
- Receive the activation code by e-mail: Once payment has been received, you conveniently get your code by e-mail – nothing is shipped.
- Activate via your Autel account: You then download the updates directly on the device as usual.
Common mistakes when choosing a licence
- Pro or not Pro: For the MaxiSys MS908 there are separate licences for the basic models and the Pro models. If your device says "Pro", you need the Pro licence.
- TS and BT variants: Models with a tyre pressure function (TS) or Bluetooth VCI (BT) often have their own licence, e.g. DS900, DS900-BT and DS900-TS.
- Double names: Some licences cover structurally identical devices, for example MaxiDAS DS808 and MaxiPro MP808, or MS906 Pro and MK906 Pro.
Good to know: Licences are digital goods. The unlock is set up for your serial number immediately after purchase – which is why they are excluded from the right of withdrawal. If in doubt, give us your model and serial number beforehand and we will check the match before you order.
Popular Autel update licences at a glance
Update licence for Autel MaxiDAS DS900
For the popular workshop tablet of the 900 generation: 12 months of new vehicle coverage and functions for your DS900.
Update licence for MaxiSys MS906 Pro / MK906 Pro
For one of the most widely used professional tablets in independent workshops – coding, adaptations and service functions stay up to date.
Update licence for MaxiDAS DS808BT / DS808S-BT
For the proven DS808 series with Bluetooth VCI – ideal if your device runs reliably but new models are missing.
Update licence for MX808 / MK808 / MX808S
The affordable way to bring the compact entry-level device up to date again – for service resets and diagnostics in day-to-day business.
Update licence for MaxiSys MS919
For the premium tablet with measurement technology: if you have invested this much, you should also stay ahead in vehicle coverage.
Update licence for MaxiSys MS908CV (trucks/commercial vehicles)
For commercial vehicle workshops: new truck, bus and van models as well as function extensions for the MS908CV.
Conclusion: renew when new vehicles arrive in your yard
An Autel update licence is not mandatory – but for any workshop whose customers drive current vehicles, it is the most affordable way to keep a professional diagnostic tool up to date for another 12 months. Activation is via serial number, the code arrives by e-mail, and your device remains functional in any case. You can buy on invoice via Klarna or PayPal.
You will find all licences in the Autel update licences category. Not sure which one fits? Give us a call: 0711-3654 4645.