Had to pick between a used Snap-on scan tool and a new Autel last month

I was in a real bind trying to decide between a used Snap-on Verus from 2019 for $2500 or a brand new Autel MaxiCOM MK908 for $2900. I went with the Autel because it had way more coverage for Asian cars, which is most of what rolls into my shop. So far, it's been solid on diagnostics but the software updates are a pain to get set up. Did I screw up skipping the Snap-on, or is the Autel the better call for an independent guy like me?

2 comments

2 Comments

nancybailey17d agoTop Commenter

Idk, maybe it's just me but I've noticed this pattern where people get so hung up on brand names they forget that tools are supposed to work for YOU, not the other way around. It's like how everyone swears by Milwaukee drills but if you do a ton of plumbing work, maybe the Ridgid is actually better for your setup. The software pain with Autel sounds annoying but at least you're getting the coverage you need right now instead of fighting a Snap-on that's older than a lot of your customers' cars.

shane65517d ago

I blew 180 bucks on a used Snap-on multimeter once and still haven't figured out half the buttons, so I'm probably the last guy to give advice on scan tools. But honestly with your mix of Asian cars the Autel was the move, those Snap-on units are great for domestic stuff but they can get weird with Hyundai and Kia stuff. I ran into the same software headache when I got my Autel, had to call their support three times just to get the thing to download the right firmware pack.