Tool Review: AE Tools MicroPOD II with wiTECH 2.0 software

The MicroPOD II with wiTECH 2.0 software from AE Tools offers additional user friendly features from the company's previous model, such as fast, easy-to-use operation and broad vehicle coverage. The latest iteration of the MicroPOD II is internet browser-based, not a locally downloaded program. This means users can receive convenient online bulletins and reference tools, as well as diagnose on a number of various devices.

The Review

Martin Fay, owner of Motor Works in DeKalb, Illinois, reviewed the Mopar MicroPOD II with wiTECH software back in December, 2015. He remains impressed with how the MicroPOD II has evolved and appreciates the support and feedback available from AE Tools. [Editor's Note: You can read the initial review of the MicroPOD II with wiTECH software at www.vehicleservicepros.com/12132559].

Fay’s shop, Motor Works, performs mobile programming for the surrounding community in DeKalb. They have been servicing and repairing domestic and import vehicles since 1984. “With factory scan tools for 15 domestic, Asian and Euro brands, the Mopar MicroPOD II with wiTECH 2.0 software… is one of our favorites,” says Fay. He adds, as part of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Aftermarket wiTECH 2.0 Pilot Program, Motor Works has been testing wiTECH 2.0 since November 2006.

To begin with, Fay appreciates that the wiTECH 2.0 is topology based. “Mopar does it better than anybody else we have seen,” says Fay. “The scanner is fast, easy to use, and has broad coverage. From tablet boot to pulling codes takes me 90 seconds. In my humble opinion, [this] topology layout continues to be the best in the industry.”

One advantage of the MicroPOD II with wiTECH 2.0 software is that it works on a number of devices, including laptops, tablets and smartphones. The internet browser-based system means the tool receives automatic updates via the cloud. It also gives shop owners direct access to the latest DTC online diagnostics, as well as service bulletins for specific vehicle makes.

“The wiTECH 2.0 works great on a tablet, with its easy handling, portability and road test abilities. If your tablet is not cellular equipped, you can easily create a mobile hotspot with your smart phone,” says Fay. He adds, “For techs flashing multiple brands, [this product] does not require its own computer partition. This is a huge deal for us geeks.”

Another thing the newest version of the MicroPOD II does well is it saves technicians time. A few ways it accomplishes this is by programming replacement ECUs and flash updating existing ECUs. “No more tows to the dealer,” says Fay. He also lists these additional time-savers that the updated scan tool performs: It "creates a lucrative new market replacing lost keys and performing security work; users can access ECUs and additional data PIDs that aftermarket scanners can’t read; it allows manual actuation and testing of many of the devices on the car, including engine controls; and performs the many resets and synchronizations automotive electronics requires."

Fay says his shop purchases all of its scan gear--and more-- from AE Tools & Computers because he enjoys the company’s knowledgeable salesmen, fast shipping and free lifetime support.

“Lifetime support means AE Tools will modem in and provide complete setup services for your new Mopar scanner. Plus, they are a short phone call away if you have questions about your new tooling,” says Fay. “Support is there to dig you out of a hole when you’re in the middle of flashing an ECU and suddenly it’s not going right. This is an absolute lifesaver if you’re performing mobile programming and hit a snag. The military term for this is ‘Got your six.' Man, do they ever!”

Fay also mentions that a recent (and major) concern in the modern digital age -- and in the auto industry too -- is hacking. To ensure a secure fix, AE’s wiTECH 2.0 employs a two-step login process, with the second step using a smartphone to grab a six-digit pin to authorize login.

“Speaking of critical safety factors, do not even think about buying a cloned MicroPOD II,” warns Fay. “[These] are unsecured and have the ability to load malicious code to a vehicle."

With its emphasis on thorough repair information (not to mention reports, data and graphing) at the touch of a button, the updated MicroPOD II can be a value to customers as well as workers in the bay.

Fay says the product’s report section in particular is an impressive instrument for customers, too. “A question for wiTECH owners: You are selling diagnostic scanning, ECU programming, key replacement and security work to the shops around you, right? The wiTECH 2.0 has a great report section. This is an impressive sales tool for customers, and will be required when flashing for collision shops.” He notes the needed key cut and security pin codes come from Mopar Tech Authority.

To get a look at the new upgrades to the MicroPOD II with wiTECH 2.0 software, or to review training videos if you've got the scan tool in-hand, Fay recommends visiting the company's YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/fcawitech.