1. Introduction
The Autel MaxiTPMS TS408S is a comprehensive Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) service tool designed for activating, reading, programming, and relearning TPMS sensors. This device supports both OEM and aftermarket sensors operating at 315MHz and 433MHz frequencies. It is an essential tool for automotive technicians and enthusiasts for maintaining proper tire pressure and ensuring vehicle safety.
Image 1.1: The Autel MaxiTPMS TS408S device, showcasing its main screen, control buttons, and included OBD2 cable, alongside a set of tires.
2. Safety Information
Before operating the MaxiTPMS TS408S, please read and understand all safety instructions. Failure to follow these instructions may result in injury or damage to the device or vehicle.
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, when working on vehicles.
- Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface with the parking brake engaged.
- Do not operate the device in wet conditions or in the presence of flammable liquids or gases.
- Keep the device away from strong magnetic fields.
- Only use the provided power adapter and cables.
- Refer to the vehicle's service manual for specific TPMS procedures and warnings.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your MaxiTPMS TS408S package:
- Autel MaxiTPMS TS408S Main Unit
- OBD II Cable
- USB Cable
- AC Adapter
- Quick Guide
- Carrying Case
Image 3.1: A visual representation of the complete Autel MaxiTPMS TS408S kit, including the main unit, AC adapter, USB cable, OBDII cable, quick guide, and carrying case.
4. Device Overview
The MaxiTPMS TS408S features a TFT color display and intuitive navigation buttons for ease of use.
4.1. Physical Components
- Display: TFT color display (320*240 dpi)
- Navigation Buttons: Up, Down, Left, Right arrows for menu navigation.
- Function Buttons: 'N' (No/Cancel), 'Y' (Yes/Confirm), TPMS, Latest Test, Review Data, Power.
- Connectivity Ports: USB port for updates and charging, OBD II port for vehicle connection.
Image 4.1: The Autel TS408S device highlighting its display, power source, operating temperature, storage temperature, weight, and dimensions.
5. Setup
5.1. Initial Power-Up
- Connect the AC adapter to the device and a power outlet to charge the internal battery.
- Press the Power button to turn on the device.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to select your preferred language and region.
5.2. Software Updates
To ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the latest vehicle models and sensors, it is recommended to update the device software regularly.
- Visit the official Autel website (www.auteltech.com) to download the Maxi PC Suite software.
- Install Maxi PC Suite on your computer.
- Connect the TS408S to your computer using the provided USB cable.
- Launch Maxi PC Suite and follow the instructions to download and install the latest software updates to your device.
6. Operation
6.1. TPMS Sensor Activation
The TS408S can activate all known OEM and universal TPMS sensors (315MHz and 433MHz).
- From the main menu, select the 'TPMS' function.
- Choose the correct vehicle make, model, and year.
- Select 'Activate Sensor'.
- Hold the TS408S near the tire valve stem (within 1 inch of the antenna).
- Press the activation button on the device.
- The device will display sensor data (ID, pressure, temperature, battery level) upon successful activation. Repeat for all sensors.
Image 6.1: A step-by-step guide demonstrating how to activate a TPMS sensor using the Autel TS408S, showing sensor selection, device placement, activation, and data display.
6.2. MX-Sensor Programming
The TS408S can program Autel MX-Sensors (315/433MHz) using two methods:
6.2.1. Copy via OBD
This method copies existing sensor IDs from the vehicle's ECU to new MX-Sensors.
- Connect the TS408S to the vehicle's OBD II port using the OBD II cable.
- Select 'Programming' then 'Copy via OBD'.
- The device will read the sensor IDs from the vehicle's ECU.
- Place a new MX-Sensor near the device and follow the on-screen instructions to write the copied ID to the sensor.
6.2.2. Auto Create 1-16 Sensors
This method generates new, unique sensor IDs for MX-Sensors.
- Select 'Programming' then 'Auto Create'.
- Manually select the vehicle make, model, and year.
- The device will generate new sensor IDs.
- Place MX-Sensors near the device and follow the on-screen instructions to write the new IDs to the sensors. Up to 16 sensors can be programmed in a batch.
Note: The TS408S exclusively programs Autel MX-Sensors and does not support other brands.
Image 6.2: An illustration detailing the two MX-Sensor programming options: 'Copy by OBD' for transferring existing IDs and 'Auto Create' for generating new IDs for up to 16 sensors.
6.3. TPMS Sensor Relearn
After replacing or rotating TPMS sensors, they must be relearned to the vehicle's ECU to turn off the TPMS warning light. The TS408S offers three relearn methods:
6.3.1. Stationary Relearn
This method requires the vehicle to be placed in 'Learn Mode' and sensors activated in a specific order.
- Select 'Relearn' and choose 'Stationary Relearn'.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to put the vehicle into TPMS learn mode (refer to the vehicle's owner's manual).
- Activate each sensor in the specified order (e.g., Front Left, Front Right, Rear Right, Rear Left) using the TS408S.
6.3.2. Automatic Relearn
For vehicles that automatically detect and relearn sensors after a drive cycle.
- Select 'Relearn' and choose 'Automatic Relearn'.
- Follow the on-screen instructions, which typically involve driving the vehicle for a certain period at a specified speed.
6.3.3. OBD Relearn
This method transfers new sensor IDs directly to the vehicle's ECU via the OBD II port.
- Connect the TS408S to the vehicle's OBD II port.
- Select 'Relearn' and choose 'OBD Relearn'.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to transfer the sensor IDs to the vehicle's ECU.
Image 6.3: A visual guide illustrating the three TPMS relearn methods: OBDII Relearn, Stationary Relearn, and Automatic Relearn, along with a note about the 1000+ relearn guide.
6.4. TPMS Health Check and Diagnostics
The TS408S can perform a complete TPMS health check and read/clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
- Connect the TS408S to the vehicle's OBD II port.
- Select 'TPMS Health Check' or 'Read DTCs'.
- The device will scan the TPMS system for issues such as low tire pressure, faulty control modules, or unidentified sensors.
- View sensor data (ID, pressure, temperature, battery status) and any stored DTCs.
- If DTCs are present, you can select 'Clear DTCs' to turn off the TPMS warning light after resolving the underlying issue.
Image 6.4: The Autel TS408S being used to perform a complete TPMS check, identifying issues like low tire pressure, faulty control modules, and unknown sensors.
Image 6.5: The Autel TS408S displaying its capability to read and erase TPMS Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), check ID matching, and provide DTC descriptions.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | TFT color display (320*240 dpi) |
| Power | 3.70V Li-polymer battery |
| Operating Temperature | -20 to 60 °C (-4 to 140 °F) |
| Storage Temperature | -10 to 45 °C (14 to 113 °F) |
| Weight | 0.39 kg (0.86 lb.) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 105mm (4.13") x 215mm (8.46") x 37mm (1.46") |
| Supported Frequencies | 315MHz, 433MHz |
| Vehicle Coverage | 150+ car makes, 1996-2025 models (check Autel website for specific coverage) |
| Languages | 19 languages supported (English, German, Spanish, French, Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Italian, Korean, Dutch, Swedish, Hungarian, Turkish, Czech, Danish, Finnish, Croatian) |
Image 7.1: An overview of the Autel TS408S's extensive vehicle coverage across European, American, and Asian car brands.
Image 7.2: A visual representation of the 19 languages supported by the Autel TS408S, designed for universal use and ease of switching.
8. Maintenance
8.1. Software Updates
Regular software updates are crucial for maintaining device functionality and expanding vehicle/sensor compatibility. Refer to Section 5.2 for detailed instructions on performing software updates.
8.2. Battery Care
- Charge the device regularly to prolong battery life.
- Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently.
- Store the device in a cool, dry place when not in use for extended periods.
8.3. Cleaning
Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the device. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
9. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with the Autel MaxiTPMS TS408S.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on | Low battery; faulty power adapter/cable | Charge the device for at least 30 minutes. Ensure power adapter and cable are securely connected and functional. |
| Cannot activate sensor | Incorrect vehicle selection; sensor too far; faulty sensor; incorrect frequency | Verify vehicle make/model/year. Hold device within 1 inch of valve stem. Check sensor frequency (315MHz/433MHz). Replace faulty sensor. |
| Sensor programming fails | Not an Autel MX-Sensor; device not close enough; software outdated | Ensure you are using Autel MX-Sensors. Place sensor directly against the device. Update device software. |
| TPMS light remains on after relearn | Relearn procedure not completed correctly; underlying TPMS fault; incorrect sensor IDs | Repeat the relearn procedure carefully. Perform a TPMS Health Check to identify any DTCs. Ensure correct sensor IDs are programmed/relearned. |
| Device freezes or is unresponsive | Software glitch; low battery | Perform a hard reset by holding the Power button for 10 seconds. Ensure battery is charged. Update software. |
10. Warranty and Support
10.1. Warranty Information
The Autel MaxiTPMS TS408S comes with a 1-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover damage caused by misuse, accident, modification, or unauthorized repair.
10.2. Lifetime Free Updates
Autel provides lifetime free software updates for the TS408S, ensuring continued compatibility with new vehicle models and TPMS sensors. Regular updates also include bug fixes and performance enhancements.
Image 10.1: An illustration emphasizing the lifetime free upgrades for the Autel TS408S, highlighting no subscription fees, added car models, new functions, and bug corrections.
10.3. Technical Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact Autel customer support:
- Website: www.auteltech.com
- Email: Refer to the official website for support contact details.
- Phone: Refer to the official website for support contact details.
When contacting support, please have your device's serial number (located on the back of the product) and proof of purchase ready.
Image 10.2: An image highlighting Autel's commitment to customer support, including 24/7 technical support, lifetime upgrades, and a 1-year quality backup.
