Autel heads to cloud to connect shop operations

To make managing, storing, and sharing diagnostic data easier in the shop and across a maintenance operation, Autel has launched a free service called Autel Cloud. The centralized secure online platform collects critical information gathered via any Autel diagnostic device, such as diagnostic reports, live data, digital vehicle inspections (DVIs), and ADAS calibration results.

"Autel Cloud connects every part of shop operations—from the service bay to the front office—bringing transparency, collaboration, and efficiency to the next level,” said Maurice Miller, Autel's VP of customer success.

How Autel Cloud works

Once in Autel Cloud, the diagnostic data can be accessed by technicians, service writers, and front-office staff, who can then seamlessly collaborate to make more effective repairs and gain vehicle insights for proactive fleet and shop management.

For example, if a shop needs to perform a suspension repair and complete an ADAS calibration, the service advisor can pre-scan the vehicle and upload the report to Autel Cloud, which is instantly shared with the tech making the calibration, Miller explained. He said the tech can use that information to more quickly research diagnostic codes, while the data is kept “organized and accessible.”

In addition to scan reports, shop personnel can search and access live data and service histories by VIN, customer name, or technician. These results can be shared with customers or insurers for faster approvals.

All detailed customer records generated by Autel tools, along with vehicle data, alignment results, and DVI reports, are securely backed up to the Cloud to ensure business continuity and compliance.

The Cloud automatically syncs data from supported Autel diagnostic tablets, ranging from the MX900 and MS Ultra S2 scan tools/tablets to service tools such as the ITS600 TPMS tool, BT608 battery and electrical system diagnostics tool, and TBE200 tread depth tool.

The Cloud’s Comprehensive Tool Management feature allows repair businesses to organize and monitor these tools by tech or shop, as well as manage software subscriptions and updates. The data also allows leaders to track productivity across various locations.

The ability to share this data from Autel tools is not new, though previously, “the process was cumbersome—requiring manual emailing or outdated file transfers,” Miller said. “These legacy methods created inefficiencies and user frustration. With the new capability, reports can now be shared in seconds and easily downloaded to a PC for seamless upload into any CRM system. This improvement significantly streamlines the workflow and eliminates one of the major pain points users previously faced.”

Autel Cloud is free and available to users who sign up after purchasing an Autel device. Techs can start to sync their tools immediately after entering their credentials. The account comes with 5GB of storage, which can be accessed from a web browser while using a mobile device, PC, or Maxisys tool. An additional 1TB of storage is available for $9.99, and 3TB for $19.99. An Enterprise version is also available for high-volume repair networks