Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for?
A: I used it for quick evaluations of various vehicles/batteries. I was able to quickly verify failed alternator diodes in a late model Freightliner truck as well as verifying that the discharged batteries were salvageable. I also used it for quick battery replacement and resets on Mercedes and BMW vehicles.
Q: How did the tool/equipment function as far as saving you time?
A: It was a massive time saver with the built-in reset functions and procedures.
Q: How has using this tool impacted your shop’s profitability?
A: It increases profitability by reducing set-up/evaluation time. Autel's adaptive conductance testing allows effective determining the state of health of the battery at almost any given state of charge. This saves the customer and the shop time. No longer do we have to sit there and charge a batter for two, three, four hours just to find out that it’s bad and needs replacement.
Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?
A: You have to charge the unit and perform registration and software updates.
Q: How easy was it to use?
A: It's a very intuitive usage even if you aren’t intimately familiar with the Autel software architecture.
Q: How was its packaging?
A: It came in a good quality blow molded case with battery terminal adapters and basic cables that are needed for functionality. Multimeter leads and amp clamp are the additional accessories that can be purchased.
Q: Was there a manual included?
A: A manual was included but the tool was intuitive enough that I did not feel the need to use it.
Q: What features did you like?
A: I liked the built-in re-set features, flexibility of battery testing, and the built-in scanner.
Q: Is there any way the tool could be improved?
A: I’d like to use the built-in thermal printer not just for printing battery reports but also to print other things like readiness monitor status or some DTC scans.
Q: How does this tool compare to other tools you’ve used like it?
A: The tool is much more consistent in its readings and more flexible in its testing capabilities than other handheld battery testers I’ve used.
This Tool Review originally appeared on VehicleServicePros.com.
