Setting Up Your New Autel Tablet: A Quick-Start Guide

Just unboxed a new Autel tablet? This quick-start guide walks you through the setup step by step so you can hit the ground running with diagnostics and ADAS calibrations.

Step 1: Create Your Autel Account

  • Head to pro.autel.com and create your Autel account
  • Click the "Register" button
  • Enter your shop and contact info
  • Save your login and password, you will need these shortly

Tip: We recommend doing this on a desktop or laptop for a smoother experience.

Step 2: Unbox and Power On the Tablet

  • Unbox the tablet and locate accessories (VCI, charger, cables, etc.)
  • Press and hold the power button to turn the tablet on
  • Plug it in if the battery is low

Tip: You can continue setup while the tablet charges.

Step 3: Connect to Wi-Fi and Log Into Your Account

  • Connect the tablet to your shop's Wi-Fi when prompted
  • Go through the standard tablet setup screens
  • Log into your Autel account using the credentials from Step 1

Step 4: Register the Tablet

  • On your computer, return to pro.autel.com and log in
  • Click "Product Registration" and input the required information
  • The serial number can be found on the back of your tablet

Registration is required to unlock software updates and ADAS functionality.

Step 5: Run System and Software Updates

  • Open the Update Manager (or "Update" app) from the home screen
  • Tap "Update All" to download system and vehicle software
  • Updates may take 30 to 60 minutes depending on Wi-Fi speed

This is where you will access all future vehicle updates, check it daily to stay current.

Step 6: Update the VCI (Vehicle Communication Interface)

  • Use the included USB cable to hardwire the VCI to the tablet
  • The tablet will detect the VCI and prompt for firmware updates
  • Install any updates, then disconnect

From now on, your VCI connects wirelessly via Bluetooth.

Bonus: AutoAuth Setup for Secure Gateway (SGW) Access

Some vehicles, especially FCA/Stellantis, Nissan, and Mercedes-Benz, use a Secure Gateway (SGW) to block diagnostics unless you are registered with AutoAuth.

Here is how to get access:

  • Create an account at autoauth.com
  • For verification, provide shop info, tax ID, and a valid ID
  • Wait for approval, usually 1 to 3 business days
  • Log in and register your Autel tablet's serial number
  • Pay the ~$50/year subscription fee for each OEM you plan to work on

Once complete, your Autel tablet will have full access to SGW-protected functions like diagnostics and calibrations.

Going Deeper: Tablet Walkthrough Videos

For a deep dive into using your tablet, our partner John Forro (Electron John) has some of the best tablet guidance videos out there.

Need a Hand?

If you get stuck at any step, our team is here to help. Reach out and we will get you dialed in.