Best Automotive Multimeters: A Must-Have Tool for Electrical Issues

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Benefits of Automotive Multimeters

Measure the current, voltage, resistance, and more. Automotive multimeters allow you to measure a variety of electrical characteristics, from voltage and resistance to capacitance. Whether you understand all the numbers or not, an automotive multimeter is a great tool to have on hand.
Get accurate readings. The automotive industry depends heavily on accuracy and measurements, both of which can be found in an automotive multimeter. DIY mechanics will particularly appreciate the accuracy of an automotive multimeter.
Troubleshoot electrical problems. Since most automotive multimeters are also rated for home use, you can easily troubleshoot any electrical problems in both areas. Whether your speaker stops working in your vehicle or an outlet won’t give power, you can use your multimeter to diagnose the problems.
Test your car’s battery. Having a dead battery is a pain, especially when you’re stuck in extreme weather conditions and all you want is to get home safely. You can use an automotive multimeter to check your car’s battery so you won’t be stranded on the side of the road.
Diagnose issues with your sound system. One of the ways you can upgrade your car is to install upgraded sound system components. However, there’s quite a lot of electrical work involved. Using a multimeter can save a lot of headaches.
Perform engine diagnostics. Taking your vehicle to the dealer just to have it tell you it was an easy fix can feel like a waste of money. Before you spend tons of cash on diagnostic services, see what you can figure out on your own with an automotive multimeter.

Types of Automotive Multimeters

Digital

Most modern automotive multimeters are digital. The display is similar to a calculator that is often backlit for ease of use. These digital readouts typically take up the upper half of the multimeter. Along with the actual digits, you’ll be able to see what measurement type is being used. On certain automotive multimeters, you’ll find a hold feature that freezes the screen to record measurements, which helps if you don’t have a pen and paper.

Auto Ranging

Most automotive multimeters developed within the last few years are auto-ranging. This feature will save you a lot of time as you’re measuring and diagnosing electrical issues. The auto-range function will be able to figure out what range you’re working in and adapt so you don’t have to spend time helping the machine to measure accurately.

Top Brands

INNOVA

If you’re looking for a bit more from an automotive multimeter, then check out the INNOVA product we are featuring in this review, the INNOVA 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter. INNOVA has been serving the automotive community for more than 15 years and calls California it’s home.

Power Probe

We understand that the Power Probe IV product we selected as our top pick for the best automotive multimeter may be out of your price range. If you’re looking for a cheaper option from a trusted brand, check out the Power Probe CAT-IV. In the business since 1991, Power Probe is headquartered in Brea, Calif.

Fluke

Headquartered in Washington, Fluke has been serving the automotive community for quite some time. Don’t like the multimeters we featured above? Check out the Fluke 115 Compact True RMS Digital Multimeter. It’s a bit on the expensive side but could be a dependable sidekick.

Automotive Multimeter Pricing

$15-$40: Most entry-level automotive multimeters will be priced around $20-$40. These multimeters typically have basic functions, such as measuring AC and DC voltage and ohms and performing a continuity test.
$50-$100: Look to this price range for a quality automotive multimeter that will perform a variety of tasks. Accurate readings, a large display, and data hold are just some of the features you’ll be able to find at this price point.
$100 and up: Professionals and DIY mechanics who want to invest in a high-quality multimeter they can use for years to come can expect to spend about $150-$200. Products in this range usually come with everything you’d ever need in an automotive multimeter, from a carrying case and additional attachments to a variety of functions and features.

Automotive multimeters come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.

Key Features

Cables

There’s no correct answer when it comes to how long multimeter cables should be. In some instances you want all the length you can get; in other situations, however, having less cable length to deal with is ideal. You should also find out how replaceable the cables are if they break, kink, or malfunction. You don’t want to be forced into buying a whole new multimeter just for the cables.

Voltage Limitations

The best multimeters will be rated as high as they can go so you can easily work with circuits that are incredibly violent when it comes to voltage levels. However, most high-end capacity multimeters top out somewhere around 6,000 volts. You may think you’re only working with 12 and 24 volts on your vehicle, but really there’s quite a lot more power there than you think.

Display

Besides functions and features, the LCD display is one of the biggest selling points of an automotive multimeter. The best automotive multimeters have displays that are large, clear, easy to read, and backlit. A select number of multimeters can actually freeze the screen to record data. The display size can often tell you how accurate the product is, depending on how many decimal places are represented.

Auto Ranging

We mentioned this above in the types of automotive multimeters, but you should be aware of the value of this feature. Most of the time when you’re working with electrical components you want to know what’s going on with a circuit in order to diagnose it or manipulate it. Having the auto-ranging feature to get you in the ballpark before you even begin can be a game-changer for many DIY and professional electricians.

Other Considerations

Frequency Of Use: Think about how much you’re going to use the product. The more often you are going to use it, the more money you should invest. Over time, the multimeter will experience wear and tear, but if you can purchase a long-lasting unit, you won’t be spending hundreds of dollars on replacements every few years.
Mounting Device: Automotive multimeters are great because their square shapes allow you to store them easily. But when you’re on the job site and need to know what your readout is, it’s always nice to have an extra hand to hold the screen up. If you’re worried about where to put your automotive multimeter, invest in products that feature straps, stands, magnets, or other mounting devices.
Portability: Many of the products we’ve mentioned include a carrying case of some kind. If you are investing in an automotive multimeter and don’t have a place in the garage picked out for it yet, consider where you’ll be using it. If you need something lightweight and able to transport well, prioritize portability.
Extra Features And Attachments: Most automotive multimeters are going to do the same thing: measure. However, manufacturers set themselves apart by offering extra features and abilities when it comes to what their multimeters can do. For example, some multimeters are able to power up certain components. Check into what extra features there are and which ones you prefer.

Best Automotive Multimeter Reviews & Recommendations 2020

There are lots of great features on the Power Probe IV. This unit can test fuel injectors, computer driver circuits, and other functional components. The meter can supply its own power and ground, which saves you the trouble of needlessly replacing various components. This multimeter has both a digital volt and ohmmeter and can measure frequency and pulse width. Only weighing about two-and-a-half pounds, the Power Probe IV multimeter also comes with a hard carrying case that makes transporting this unit easy and safe.

There are a few drawbacks with the Power Probe IV. First is the price, which can be out of the question if you’re on a budget. This is especially true if you don’t typically use all the functions the Power Probe IV has to offer. However, this product works well for professionals and any DIY mechanics who need to perform various electrical component tests.

Best Overall: Power Probe IV with Case

We chose the Power Probe IV as our top pick because automotive professionals depend on this multimeter on a daily basis. The fourth generation of this digital automotive multimeter has a lot going for it. From the various modes and capabilities to the safety factors and user-friendly features, Power Probe has truly fitted this model with nearly everything you could ask for from an automotive multimeter.

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Included with this digital multimeter are protective rubber coating on all four corners, a stand, and leads. Measuring about 6 inches by 3 inches, this unit is versatile and portable. INNOVA makes its display large so you don’t have to squint to see your readings. This hand-held multimeter features colorful options, from which you can choose to test batteries, measure voltage, and carry out a multitude of other functions.

The biggest drawback that we found with the INNOVA unit is the unit’s ability to withstand the test of time. We chose it as our value pick because it is affordable; however, this multimeter likely won’t hold up as well as others that are priced in a higher range. Similarly, you are limited in what functions you can perform with this automotive multimeter. That being said, INNOVA’s automotive multimeter is a product nearly everyone can find a use for.

Best Value: INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter

INNOVA’s auto-ranging digital multimeter proves that you don’t have to spend much to get the electrical testing capabilities you need. For the most basic jobs, this digital multimeter will suffice. The unit can test a variety of functions, including temperature. Best of all, it only weighs about 1 pound.

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One of the best things about this multimeter is that it comes with a carrying case for easy storage. In this price range, it would be hard to find a similar product that offers even a hard carrying case. We also liked that the multimeter was auto-ranging and measured temperature. The ability to handle being dropped goes a long way, especially at this price point. Weighing just under one pound, this automotive multimeter can measure up to 1,000 volts.

Without the ability to measure true RMS, this automotive multimeter from Klein Tools does exhibit some downfalls. If accuracy is something you’re concerned about, it might be best to go with another multimeter. However, we do believe this automotive multimeter can be used by anyone, from DIY enthusiasts to professionals if they’re looking to do some electrical work on their vehicles.

Honorable Mention: Klein Tools 1000V Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter

Though we didn’t choose the Klein Tools Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter as our top or value pick, we did feel it was worth mentioning for a variety of reasons. Klein Tools has been operating since 1857 to deliver professional-level products at consumer-level prices, which is evident in its digital multimeter. Let’s take a closer look at this product and what it can offer you.

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Tips

Storing your automotive multimeter in a case will help it last much longer. Hard cases are more desirable since they will protect the multimeter from impacts and falls. However, soft cases can be easier to store in the trunk of your car or in a tool bag.
Make sure to keep your automotive multimeter clean. That means keeping it away from fluids, aerosols, and any other contaminants that could potentially damage the screen and components. Dirty hands could be cause for problems, too.
Be aware of your multimeter when you’re working on a job. Make sure not to drop any tools onto the meter if you carry it in your tool bag. Tools dropped on the unit could damage the screen and cause a variety of malfunctions.
When storing cable probes, be sure to wind them loosely. Avoid kinking the cables as this could cause them to malfunction during use. Inspect the cables every so often to make sure the protective coating hasn’t split to leave the wires within exposed.
Be aware of the voltage you’re measuring. Most meters are designed to pop a fuse before they allow the massive current to fry internal components, but that’s not to say they’ll always protect you if you’re holding onto the leads. Respect the electricity you’re working with.
Instead of looking at brand names only, search out a multimeter that fits your needs. For example, if you’re going to use your automotive multimeter for household projects as well you won’t necessarily need something a professional electrician would require. Prioritize desired features for best results.
Besides searching for a multimeter that fits your needs, you should also find one that will support how much you intend to use it. That translates to investing more money into a unit if you plan on using it often. If you just want a multimeter to have on hand, you won’t have to spend much to get what you need.

FAQs

Q: What exactly can I measure with an automotive multimeter?

A: With an automotive multimeter you can measure and/or test AC/DC current, duty cycles, your car battery, temperature readings, and electrical systems. Each model will have a different range of functions, depending on the price and capabilities.

Q: Can I use an automotive multimeter on an electric car?

A: We recommend you don’t use an automotive multimeter anywhere near an electric car. Since most electric vehicles have strong and powerful batteries on board, many mechanics have to be safety certified to work on them.

Q: Do all automotive multimeters have overload protection?

A: Depending on the price and voltage range of the specific multimeter, there could be a few different overload protection devices in place. For example, some multimeters are equipped with fuses that will pop before allowing the unit to take the full blast of voltage.

Q: What’s the difference between a voltmeter and a multimeter?

A: Voltmeters typically have clamps that allow the meter itself to measure voltage. Multimeters measure much more than that and conduct measurements via test leads rather than clamps.

Q: What does it mean when a multimeter is UL certified?

A:
UL certification comes from Underwriter Laboratories (UL) and carries with it the recognition that a product has been through rigorous testing. You can read more about UL certification at the link above, but think of it as a third-party testing and approval process.

Q: Which automotive multimeter is right for me?

A: There are a lot of factors to consider when purchasing an automotive multimeter. Some helpful features include hands-free usage, an audible tone for some measurements, a magnetic hanger, and auto shut off. For automotive use, seek out a multimeter that gives accurate measurements and comes with a five-year warranty.

Final Thoughts

Our top pick for the best automotive multimeter is the Power Probe IV. This product is popular with professionals for its various uses and reliability.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, check out the INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter. For the most basic jobs, it works well.

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