This article answers 4 frequently asked questions and answers on Autel im608 / IM508 key programmer.
1. Can I Purchase the IM608 in the USA and take it to another country？
Looking to buy one in Uk and I have seen some Chinese website advertising them as global coverage but the local supplier says that they will be ip blocked. In most cases, you will not be able to use the IM608 because your IP address will be blocked. In some limited circumstances and regions, you may be able to acquire a tool that allows you to use the IM608 but professional consultation is necessary to ensure it is possible.
it is true that Autel IM608 / IM508 bought in china won’t be IP blocked.
US version: NO IP limited
EU version: No IP limited
AU version: No IP limited
Generally, all version has no IP limited
2. Autel im608 = Autel im508+ xp400 + G-BOX2?
Looking at 508 and 608 buying next week but not sure which one yet
1) No choice there. 608 all the way.
2). 508 with xp400 and G-BOX2 does all the key programming the 608 does
Half the subs and a lot cheaper to buy
3) DK Veteran don’t agree with the above point of view and comment:
not quite true , it has all the current key programming coverage of im608 , but , im508 will not do mqb all keys lost once released on im608 , it also won’t do some Mercedes functions , and its likely some new functions will be limited to 608 as silly not to , im508 is great for now , but i suspect it will be im608 needed going forward or shooting themselves in foot , plus the im608 brings alot of diag to the table if it all works, so the way i understood it was im508 great as for now tool but im608 is the the future tool so sounder investment for me.
3) IM508 can’t do some Benz & Audi function no matter if you have gbox2 and xp400
IM508 doesn’t have as much MCU functionality
IM508 won’t have OE key renewing when it is released
IM508 isn’t part of the SGM authorization being finalized
The J2534 is worth something if you are gong to expand market
IM608 diag software is good and helps when something isn’t working
Price difference from where I bought for the IM508 with XP400 and Gbox2 and key simulator was $750~
Price difference for 1 year update was $50
3. Can the IM608 add a Blade Key on a 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class?
No, at this moment the IM608 does not have this capability.
4. I’m working on a 2011 Volvo V70 T6 AWD station wagon. Can I add a key? Or do an “all keys lost” scenario?
Yes, however, you must choose one of two possibilities each with its pros and cons.
One option is to complete the task via the OBD port; this process can take up to 8 hours. If you are pressed for time this may cause a problem. But if time is not an issue the procedure is quite simple and the IM608 diagnostic tool can save progress from your last session, allowing you to pause the process and continue at a later time if needed.
The other option can be much quicker but also requires more extensive expertise. To read the CEM data much quicker you would need to remove the CEM for bench decryption from under the dashboard. You can outsource the process to remove the CEM or you can complete it yourself if you have the tools and capability to do so.