Autel TS508WF vs TS408 TPMS tools

What a TPMS tool does

Each tire pressure sensor sends an ID along with pressure and temperature. When you replace a sensor, rotate tires on some vehicles or swap to a second set of wheels, the car's TPMS module may need to learn the new IDs and positions. That process is a relearn. A TPMS tool wakes up (activates) each sensor so you can read its ID, pressure, temperature and battery status, and many tools can also program blank aftermarket sensors to match the car.

Some vehicles relearn on their own after a drive, some need a tool to trigger the sensors in order, and some need the IDs written into the module through the OBD2 port. The method varies by make and model. Our TPMS relearn procedure guide walks through the common methods.

Spec comparison from the listings

Every entry comes from the Amazon listing text for each tool.

Note.Always set tire pressures to the placard on the driver door jamb before a relearn. A relearn will not fix a sensor with a dead battery or a damaged valve stem.

Relearn and programming: where the TS508WF pulls ahead

The TS508WF listing says it can relearn sensors in up to three ways and names stationary relearn among them. Stationary, auto (drive) and OBD relearn are the three common methods used across vehicles. The TS408 listing describes two relearn options with 3000+ built in relearn guides and a simple select, follow and confirm flow. If the vehicles you work on require a method the TS408 does not support, you would need a separate scan tool to finish the job, so check Autel's coverage for your vehicles first.

For programming Autel MX-Sensors, the TS508WF lists four methods and the TS408 lists three: Auto Create for 1 to 16 sensors, Manual Create and Copy by Activation. Copy by activation is the method many people use when replacing a single sensor, because it clones the old sensor's ID so no relearn is needed on many vehicles. Both cover the 315 and 433MHz MX-Sensors.

See the best TPMS relearn tools →

Updates, modes and everyday use

The TS508WF listing calls it Autel's first non tablet tool with lifetime Wi-Fi updates, so you update it directly without a computer. It also has two service modes on the home screen: Quick Mode for fast jobs and Advanced Mode for more detail. The TS408 listing also promises lifetime free software upgrades but does not say how updates are installed.

In daily use, both tools read the same core sensor data. The TS508WF also lists sensor position and frequency in its readout, which helps when you are sorting out which wheel a sensor belongs to or whether it is a 315 or 433MHz part. The TS408 claims sensor activation in about 10 seconds.

Who should buy which

Both tools appear in our best TPMS relearn tool guide, which also covers Autel's tablet based TPMS options for shops.

• Buy the TS508WF if you want the most relearn and programming options, Wi-Fi updates and a fuller sensor readout. The price gap in the listings is small.
• Buy the TS408 if you mainly activate sensors, check sensor health before tire work and program MX-Sensors by copying, and you want the lowest price.
• Consider a scan tool with TPMS functions if your vehicles need OBD relearns and you also want engine and ABS diagnostics. See our TPMS tool guide and the bidirectional scan tool guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is the TS408 the same as the TS508WF? No. The TS408 listing calls itself a lite version of the TS501 Pro and TS508WF. It lists fewer relearn and programming options.

Do these tools work with any brand of sensor? Both listings say they activate most OEM and universal sensors. Programming applies to Autel MX-Sensors.

Do I need a TPMS tool to replace a sensor? Often, yes. Many vehicles need the new sensor ID learned or the new sensor programmed to match. Some vehicles relearn by driving. Check the service information for your vehicle.

Do the TS508WF and TS408 need paid updates? Both listings say software updates are lifetime free.