The Autel MaxiCheck MX808 is a popular diagnostic scan tool favored by both automotive professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Known for its comprehensive diagnostic capabilities and user-friendly interface, the MX808 is often compared to similar devices like the Autel MaxiCOM MK808 and MK808TS. A common question among potential users is: can the MaxiCheck MX808 program car remotes? Let’s delve into the functionalities of the MX808 to understand its key programming and immobilizer (IMMO) features, and clarify its ability to handle car remotes.
Understanding the Autel MaxiCheck MX808’s Diagnostic Prowess
Before focusing on remote programming, it’s important to understand the MX808’s core strengths as a diagnostic scanner. As highlighted in comparisons with the MK808 and MK808TS, the MX808 is a robust tool designed to perform a wide array of diagnostic and service functions. It is compatible with a vast range of vehicles, including most 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based, and newer models. Both the MX808 and MK808 are functionally identical, differing mainly in their marketing channels (offline vs. online availability).
The MX808 boasts features like:
- Full System Diagnostics: Capable of scanning all available modules within a vehicle to identify fault codes.
- Extensive Service Functions: Supports numerous maintenance services, including oil resets, EPB (Electronic Parking Brake) service, BMS (Battery Management System), SAS (Steering Angle Sensor) calibration, and DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) regeneration.
- Live Data Display: Presents real-time vehicle data in text format for in-depth analysis.
- Auto VIN Detection: Automatically identifies the vehicle for faster diagnostics.
- Broad Vehicle Coverage: Supports a wide range of makes, including Acura, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Ford, GM, Honda, Toyota, and many more.
These features make the MX808 a valuable tool for diagnosing and resolving a multitude of vehicle issues. But what about key and remote programming?
Key Programming and IMMO Functions of the MX808
The specifications for both the Autel MX808 and MK808 clearly state “Support IMMO(Anti-theft matching) Functions” and “Immobilizer function: Yes”. IMMO, or Immobilizer, systems are anti-theft measures in modern vehicles that prevent the engine from starting unless the correct transponder key is present. Diagnostic tools with IMMO capabilities are crucial for tasks such as:
- Key Matching: Programming new keys to the vehicle’s immobilizer system. This is necessary when keys are lost or when adding spare keys.
- Immobilizer Reset: In some cases, resetting the immobilizer system might be required during repairs or component replacements.
- Key Learning: Teaching the vehicle to recognize new keys.
While the term “IMMO functions” primarily relates to keys and immobilizer systems, it’s closely linked to the broader concept of vehicle security and access, which includes car remotes. The Autel MaxiCheck MX808, with its IMMO capabilities, is indeed capable of performing key programming functions. This means it can be used to program transponder keys for many vehicles, ensuring that new or replacement keys are correctly recognized by the car’s security system.
However, it’s important to clarify the distinction between key programming and remote programming. While key programming focuses on the immobilizer and starting the vehicle, remote programming specifically deals with the key fob’s remote control functions – locking/unlocking doors, remote start (if equipped), and panic button.
Does the MX808 Program Car Remotes?
Based on the available information and typical functionalities of scan tools in this category, the Autel MaxiCheck MX808 likely includes the ability to program car remotes as part of its IMMO and key programming functions. Often, the process of programming a new key fob involves both the immobilizer transponder (key programming) and the remote control functions (remote programming). When you program a new key with the MX808, it is probable that you are also programming the remote functionalities at the same time, or through a similar procedure within the IMMO functions menu.
To confirm the exact capabilities for specific vehicle makes and models, it is always recommended to:
- Consult the Autel MX808 user manual: The manual should provide detailed steps on how to perform key and remote programming, including specific vehicle coverage and procedures.
- Check Autel’s official vehicle compatibility list: Autel usually provides a list of vehicles and functions supported by each tool.
- Contact Autel support: For definitive answers regarding specific vehicle models and remote programming capabilities, reaching out to Autel’s customer support is advisable.
MX808 vs. MK808 and MX808TS: Focusing on Key Programming
When comparing the MX808 to the MK808 and MK808TS, the key programming capabilities are consistent across the MX808 and MK808. Both tools offer the same level of IMMO functions. The MK808TS distinguishes itself primarily with added TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) functionalities. For users primarily interested in diagnostics and key programming, either the MX808 or MK808 will provide similar performance.
| MX808 / MK808 | MX808TS / MK808TS | |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Diagnostics | Full System Diagnostics, OBD Diagnostics | Full System Diagnostics, OBD Diagnostics |
| Service Functions | Oil Reset, EPB, BMS, SAS, DPF, IMMO, etc. | Oil Reset, EPB, BMS, SAS, DPF, IMMO, etc. |
| TPMS Functions | Basic TPMS Service | Advanced TPMS Diagnostics, Sensor Activation/Programing |
| Key Programming | IMMO Functions (Key & Remote Programming likely included) | IMMO Functions (Key & Remote Programming likely included) |
Who Should Use the Autel MaxiCheck MX808 for Key and Remote Programming?
The Autel MaxiCheck MX808 is well-suited for:
- Professional Technicians in Small Repair Shops: For shops handling a variety of vehicles, the MX808 provides a cost-effective solution for both diagnostics and essential services like key programming.
- DIY Car Enthusiasts: For individuals who perform their own vehicle maintenance and repairs, the MX808 offers advanced capabilities, including key and remote programming, expanding their repair and maintenance options.
- Mobile Mechanics: The MX808’s portability makes it convenient for mobile mechanics who need a versatile tool to perform diagnostics and key programming at different locations.
Conclusion: Unlocking Key and Remote Programming with the MX808
In conclusion, the Autel MaxiCheck MX808 is a capable diagnostic scan tool that does include immobilizer (IMMO) functions, which very likely extend to car remote programming. While primarily known for its diagnostic prowess and service functions, its IMMO capabilities make it a valuable tool for key and remote related tasks. For users needing a balance of comprehensive diagnostics and key/remote programming features, the Autel MX808 is a strong contender. Always verify specific vehicle compatibility and consult the user manual or Autel support for detailed procedures and the full scope of its remote programming abilities for your particular vehicle make and model.
