Autel VCMI Battery Replacement Tutorial

Throwing this out there for any other Ultra owners like me that:

A.) Adore the wireless scope function, and
B.) Just can't seem to remember to turn the damn thing off when the job is done.

There's several videos out there about replacing the main battery (in the scan tool), but almost nothing about the battery in the VCMI itself. So, for the niche group of techs that actually use their Ultra to scope stuff AND still own one AND aren't planning on upgrading , this is for you!

I started noticing short battery life about a year ago, and has recently taken a real nose dive. But hey, for four years of use, abuse and getting hoods shut on it? I'm pretty happy. No complains with Autel quality on this one.

So let's get started. First, tools. You'll need a 2.5mm and 2.0mm hex socket, plus a pocket screwdriver for general prying purposes. A precision screwdriver bit set is ideal. Standard hex bits can be made to work, but won't fit well and might cause you to strip something.

 

For reference, I'll be calling the end of the VCMI with the hanging hook as the top. The scope/BNC end will be the bottom. All the exterior work will be done at the top. Start with these four recessed 2.5mm screws:

 

Don't judge me on the dirt. Gently work the rubberized bumper off the plastic clips and you'll find two 2.0mm screws.



These screws simultaneously hold the upper retainer to the metal case, and also hold the hanging hook in. If your hook falls out on the floor, not to worry, it slides right back in.

Then it's down to four more 2.5mm recessed screws and the upper retainer pops off.

 

From there, the guts of the VCMI slide right out the top.

 

 

That's the battery on the right. After some Googling with 'SP515783', I ended up on eBay:

Total with shipping was $41. Transit time was about five weeks, so keep that in mind if you're thinking of replacing yours. The replacement so similar to the original, I have to wonder if it's an OE or OEM part:

 

The battery itself is only held in with double-sided sticky foam. There's probably a better way to get it out? But I just pried it out with a pocket screwdriver like an ape.

 

Flip the guts of the VCMI over to find the battery cable connection, covered with a bit of fabric tape. Pops off with a pocket screwdriver blade.

 

Connect up your new battery, tape it down and reverse the removal process. Be aware, my replacement battery came completely discharged out of the box, and would not power the VCMI on immediately after installation. Let the new battery charge afterwards.

Questions, comments? Let me know.