Best Automotive Multimeter — Buyers Guide, Review, and Comparison
In the mechanics, motor restorers, and car owner's armory — the best automotive multimeter is as crucial as a trolley jack or tire wrench. These flexible units permit a plethora of vehicle applications — including testing battery charge, solving ignition issues, checking alternator function, and running diagnostics on fuel-sender units. Focusing on garage use, these multimeters are typically more robust than their DIY-electronic counterparts, and often allow one-handed operation.
- Complete with storage holster.
- CAT III 600-volt safety rated.
- Arrives with a nine-volt battery.
- Large LCD screen.
- Compact design.
Best Automotive Multimeter
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Best Compact
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Fluke 115 Review Fluke 115 Review | |
 
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Best Easy Operation
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Etekcity MSR-A1000 Review Etekcity MSR-A1000 Review | |
 
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Best Digital
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Actron CP7677 Review Actron CP7677 Review | |
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Best Lightweight
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Innova 3320 Review Innova 3320 Review | |
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Best Dual Temperature
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Innova 3340 Review Innova 3340 Review | |
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Best Dual Temperature
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Fluke 77-IV Review Fluke 77-IV Review | |
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Best Dual Temperature
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Etekcity MSR-C600 Review Etekcity MSR-C600 Review |
Things to Consider Before You Buy A Automotive Multimeter
What It's Good For
Automotive multimeters are among the most versatile devices in existence – they allow you to easily check things like capacitance, resistance, voltage, current, as well as other factors.
These tools are capable of showing multiple readings, and they’re easy to see and interpret, thanks to their big digital displays. Unlike their analog cousins, you don’t have to take a really close look to see the numbers, which makes them great in poor lighting conditions or if you have poor eyesight.
An automotive multimeter shows actual values and is capable of providing an output of up to five decimal places. This makes these devices highly accurate. Another feature worth mentioning is that they can also read negative values, particularly if we’re talking about voltage. When you place the probes into opposite polarity, you’ll get a negative output. It’s yet another advantage of these devices and something that makes them invaluable to all serious petrol heads.
What It's Not So Good For
Unfortunately, automotive multimeters aren’t perfect for every occasion. The most important one of them is that they don’t do particularly well with measurement fluctuations. This means that when a variation takes place, an automotive multimeter won’t be capable of representing it, and will instead calculate a single reading or record an error.
Another disadvantage is that they can be somewhat expensive. As far as we’re concerned, these tools are now far more affordable (especially when compared to analog models) than they once were, but many still might be out of your price range if you have a limited budget.
Also, with so many varying capabilities and with different prices, it can be tough to select just one that will best fit your individual needs. There are a plethora of options out there, so make sure to read our informative and comprehensive reviews first.
TOP RATED AUTOMOTIVE MULTIMETERS
We’ve done the research and come up with a list of five automotive multimeters that we think are currently the best value. Every device has several additional features and useful functions. These meters are very easy to use and suitable for both professionals and beginners.
People often think that the price determines quality. However, that’s not always the case, because all of these units come with an affordable price and yet are well made.
Whether you’d like to measure voltage, current, capacitance, or even resistance, check out some of these units. Most of them can offer pretty much everything you need. Plus, all these meters have one thing in common — versatility.
This product has a pretty impressive list of features and functions. You can test capacitance, continuity, frequency, and efficiency with high precision. A pair of test leads are included with the meter.
The True RMS function is what makes this multimeter worth checking out. It allows the meter to offer precise data by eliminating electrical noise in the environment. If you’re familiar with the True RMS concept, you know how useful it is, especially with older electrical devices and gadgets that emit a lot of electrical noise.
The large display and a bright LED backlight offer crystal-clear readings. One thing worth mentioning is that you can read the results from any angle, even from 45 degrees, while it’s not possible with many other models. The design is neat, sturdy, and durable, which is a characteristic of almost every product made by Fluke. As far as precision and accuracy go, the Fluke 115 is near the top.
It’s great for field interventions because of its size. It weighs only 1.3 pounds, and it’s small size means it will easily fit in your pocket. For the best experience, the Fluke 115 also offers auto ranging to facilitate the use further. You don’t have to set the values manually — the unit will do that for you, which saves a lot of time and effort.
The meter is CAT III 600-volt safety rated — even beginners can use it without exposing themselves to risks. If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight tool for quick jobs of measuring and testing various current-related values, make sure to check the Fluke 115 out. It has everything you need in a multimeter and, most importantly, the price is great.
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The multimeter is large enough to include all the necessary options, but small enough to be easy to transport and use. The MSR-A1000 includes features that make it simple to use, such as a large LCD screen display. It includes a hook to clip the device out of the way and a rotary dial that is easy to use.
The Etekcity MSR-A1000 was designed with safety in mind. An automatic shutoff feature preserves the batteries. There is a non-contact voltage mode, which allows you to safely test potentially hot or live wires without direct contact. This device also provides both reverse polarity protection and overload protection. The multimeter also has two ceramic tube fuses, rather than the single ceramic tube fuse that many multimeters use for protection.
The multimeter is large enough to include all the necessary options, but small enough to be easy to transport and use. The MSR-A1000 includes features that make it simple to use, such as a large LCD screen display. It includes a hook to clip the device out of the way and a rotary dial that is easy to use.
The Etekcity MSR-A1000 was designed with safety in mind. An automatic shutoff feature preserves the batteries. There is a non-contact voltage mode, which allows you to safely test potentially hot or live wires without direct contact. This device also provides both reverse polarity protection and overload protection. The multimeter also has two ceramic tube fuses, rather than the single ceramic tube fuse that many multimeters use for protection.
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What does that mean for you? In addition to the usual tests you can perform with any multimeter, the Actron CP7677 can also be used for automotive-specific, on-bench troubleshooting. Examples include testing the tach or the dwell angle for points-type ignitions on older cars.
Actron has been producing quality automotive diagnostic tools and scanners since 1964. Its products are known to be simple enough for the do-it-yourself enthusiast, yet durable enough to be used by professionals.
The Actron CP7677 has a solid build quality, with a blue rubberized boot and stand, making it ideal for working in cramped areas, like engine compartments. Detailed instructions and safety features, like overload protection, make it ideal for the novice user.
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The first great thing about the Innova 3320 is the battery load test function. It’s used for checking whether your car battery (or any battery) is performing well. It may not sound like it’s a big deal, but if you take a moment and think about it, you’ll realize it means you don’t have to buy separate tools to diagnose your battery condition.
It also has an auto-ranging function, which will help you to save some time and effort. It selects the proper range automatically, so you don’t have to. This feature is especially useful for those among us who aren’t experts when it comes to dealing with electricity, batteries, and multimeters in general.
The large digital display is also an important feature of the Innova 3320. Many multimeters nowadays have a small, almost illegible screen, which can be a burden in certain lighting conditions, for example. The overall design is neat; it has a built-in stand and wrist wraps which guarantee a firm grip. Because of the sturdiness of this unit, it can also withstand bumps and drops.
There’s a single-setting resistance function for both DC and AC on this unit. It comes with a safety certification issued by the UL, and while this doesn’t sound too impressive, it offers contentment and peace of mind. Although some users doubt its reliability, you can rest assured that you’re going to get precise and accurate readings.
One thing that makes this company stand out is the customer support. Some manufacturers neglect their customers and provide poor after-sales support, but Innova has a team of people who are ready to answer your questions and help you with potential issues.
The first great thing about the Innova 3320 is the battery load test function. It’s used for checking whether your car battery (or any battery) is performing well. It may not sound like it’s a big deal, but if you take a moment and think about it, you’ll realize it means you don’t have to buy separate tools to diagnose your battery condition.
It also has an auto-ranging function, which will help you to save some time and effort. It selects the proper range automatically, so you don’t have to. This feature is especially useful for those among us who aren’t experts when it comes to dealing with electricity, batteries, and multimeters in general.
The large digital display is also an important feature of the Innova 3320. Many multimeters nowadays have a small, almost illegible screen, which can be a burden in certain lighting conditions, for example. The overall design is neat; it has a built-in stand and wrist wraps which guarantee a firm grip. Because of the sturdiness of this unit, it can also withstand bumps and drops.
There’s a single-setting resistance function for both DC and AC on this unit. It comes with a safety certification issued by the UL, and while this doesn’t sound too impressive, it offers contentment and peace of mind. Although some users doubt its reliability, you can rest assured that you’re going to get precise and accurate readings.
One thing that makes this company stand out is the customer support. Some manufacturers neglect their customers and provide poor after-sales support, but Innova has a team of people who are ready to answer your questions and help you with potential issues.
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This multimeter provides a variety of functions and is easy to use for anyone, from those who have not previously dealt with a digital multimeter before, to experts in the world of automotive repair. Should your engine be acting up, the Innova 3340’s sophisticated design will help you determine what is wrong with it.
The temperature probe feature provides accurate temperature readings in both Fahrenheit and Celsius. The multimeter also comes with an inductive clamp, which measures the RPM (revolutions per minute) of your vehicle.
Just about everything under your vehicle’s hood can be tested by this device, from the alternator diodes to the breaker points and wiring. Best of all, you can transport it easily. The Innova 3340 is a handheld, modestly-sized digital multimeter, and comes with its own carrying case (which can be fit easily inside your toolkit).
What’s more, the Innova 3340 works for more than just your vehicle. It can also provide great service to you around the home. For instance, its ability to act as an electric multimeter/voltage meter means that it can determine whether or not a wall socket is functioning properly.
For anyone in need of a tool that acts as both an automotive multimeter and an electric multimeter/voltage meter, look no further than the Innova 3340. The price of the Innova 3340 is reasonable as well, considering all the functions that it offers.
Should you have any technical problems that occur while using the Innova 3340, it comes with a one-year warranty. covering repairs or replacements, if necessary.
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The Fluke 77-IV has both manual and auto ranging options, which means you can choose either, depending on your personal preferences. The large digital display is backlit with a bright LED light, which comes in handy if you’re working in dimly-lit areas.
The ergonomic rubber housing offers protection from bumps, hits, and falls. You can also use it hands free, with the help of a magnetic hanger. One of the greatest elements of this particular unit is its versatility. It can be used both by professional electricians and DIY enthusiasts.
Whether you want to check the electronics in your car or test some batteries in your home, the Fluke 77-IV won’t let you down. It’s designed both for field work and bench repairs.
The voltage resolution range is pretty wide — it goes from 1mV up to 1000V for AC and DC. The current range for both AC and DC is 10 amps. The capacitance and resistance ranges are also wide enough to accommodate every need and demand.
A beeper is integrated into the unit, to notify the user and indicate diode and continuity results. One of the things that stands out is the device’s accuracy. With 0.3% accuracy, it’s among the most precise ones in this category.
Some other features differentiate this item from others, too. For example, while it’s advertised as an automotive multimeter, it can be easily used for household purposes as well.
Since it meets most of the requirements of a professional user, its affordable price is another thing worth mentioning. One would expect a higher price for a tool like this. It’s worth mentioning that the Fluke 77-IV is designed in the United States, while many others come from licensed factories on the Asian market
The Fluke 77-IV has both manual and auto ranging options, which means you can choose either, depending on your personal preferences. The large digital display is backlit with a bright LED light, which comes in handy if you’re working in dimly-lit areas.
The ergonomic rubber housing offers protection from bumps, hits, and falls. You can also use it hands free, with the help of a magnetic hanger. One of the greatest elements of this particular unit is its versatility. It can be used both by professional electricians and DIY enthusiasts.
Whether you want to check the electronics in your car or test some batteries in your home, the Fluke 77-IV won’t let you down. It’s designed both for field work and bench repairs.
The voltage resolution range is pretty wide — it goes from 1mV up to 1000V for AC and DC. The current range for both AC and DC is 10 amps. The capacitance and resistance ranges are also wide enough to accommodate every need and demand.
A beeper is integrated into the unit, to notify the user and indicate diode and continuity results. One of the things that stands out is the device’s accuracy. With 0.3% accuracy, it’s among the most precise ones in this category.
Some other features differentiate this item from others, too. For example, while it’s advertised as an automotive multimeter, it can be easily used for household purposes as well.
Since it meets most of the requirements of a professional user, its affordable price is another thing worth mentioning. One would expect a higher price for a tool like this. It’s worth mentioning that the Fluke 77-IV is designed in the United States, while many others come from licensed factories on the Asian market
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This unit is special because it’s a multimeter with clamps. Digital clamp meters allow you to conduct an analysis without having to cut down the wires or strip down the cord.
The first benefit of the Etekcity MSR-C600 is that it can be used both for automotive and home use because of its versatility and numerous capabilities. This particular multimeter also comes with a pair of test leads, which allow you to measure AC and DC, continuity, and resistance, effectively and with high precision.
The data hold function is very useful when you don’t have a piece of paper to write it down, or there are just too many decimals to remember. If you use the data hold function, it will store the last reading until you overwrite it or shut down the device, saving time and effort.
The auto shut down option might not seem too impressive, but it’s quite useful, especially if you have a habit of forgetting to turn your devices off after use. This feature alleviates the issue by turning the unit off after 15 minutes of inactivity. Needless to say, it prolongs the battery life as well as saving money.
The auto ranging feature is great for beginners and those who don’t want to bother with manual settings. You will also get an audible warning if you try to conduct a measurement under the wrong settings or circumstances.
While it might not be perfect for professionals, it’s a great tool for DIY enthusiasts and people who occasionally deal with electricity and car batteries. The display and markings are easy to see and read. It also comes in a neat case that lets you keep the meter and leads together without anything getting tangled up.
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Auto Multimeter Product Comparisons
| TRUE RMS | VOLTAGE | AUTO RANGE | WEIGHT | PRICE | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Fluke 115 Multimeter | 600V | 1.6 lbs | $ | Check Price | ||
Etekcity MSR-A1000 | 1000V | 1.25 lbs | $$$ | Check Price | ||
Actron CP7677 Digital Multimeter | 1000V | 1.3 lbs | $$$ | Check Price | ||
Innova 3320 | 600V | 0.3 lbs | $ | Check Price | ||
Inova 3340 | 600V | 1 lbs | $ | Check Price | ||
Fluke 77-IV | 1000V | 1.5 lbs | $$$ | Check Price | ||
Etekcity MSR-C600 | 600V | 1 lbs | $ | Check Price |
Our Verdict: Which Auto Ranging Multimeter Do We Prefer?
Whether you’re a trade mechanic or just a total car fanatic — an automotive multimeter is an essential part of your toolkit. And, while our top picks represent the most comprehensive examples available — in my opinion, the Fluke 115 is the Ferrari of motor testing.
Boasting a CAT III safety rating, this true RMS multimeter is ideal for on-site diagnostics — whether that’s checking battery power, ignition fault-finding, or investigating engine temperatures with its in-built heat probe.
A data hold feature, together with minimum, maximum, and average readings permit you to detect and solve circuit fluctuations, while a large LCD screen with a white LED backlight permits you to use the unit in poorly illuminated areas — such as in engine bays or inspection pits.
Therefore, if you’re seeking a Formula One-grade multimeter, I seriously suggest taking a look at the Fluke 115.
Automotive Multimeters – Our 2021 Buyer’s Guide
Before purchasing your very first automotive multimeter, there’s a couple of things you should know, in order to avoid buying a device that’s unsuitable for your needs. Ask yourself the following questions
What Is It Capable of Measuring?
Before buying an automotive multimeter, consider your level of knowledge of electrical equipment. Most multimeters are capable of measuring resistance, continuity, current, AC and DC voltage, for example. If you consider yourself to be a professional user, frequency and capacitance would be among other essential features of your future device.
Are the Readings Accurate and Trustworthy?
The accuracy of a multimeter is something that determines the volume by which the shown reading will be different from the input value. If you’re working on a professional level, accuracy is indeed an essential factor to look for. On the other hand, it shouldn’t be a serious concern for people who only use these devices in their own households.
One important thing to know here is the fact that you might need to calibrate your model to keep it precise from the very first day. Models that show readings in more digits are typically considered to be the most accurate.
Is it Safe Enough?
One really good thing to know is that most of today’s multimeters come with safety fuses, preventing accidents from happening. These fuses are usually attached to the back of the devices and can be easily replaced. Of course, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider the acceptable limits of your model. The highest tolerable values of your particular device are generally listed in the manufacturer’s user manual.
If you’re planning to purchase a model with detachable probes, don’t forget to check out if these probes have the correct placement. Due to safety considerations, multimeters often have color coding on the probes.
How’s the Build Quality?
Sometimes, electrical projects will require a professional to work in some really inconvenient locations, such as electrical poles, high-rise buildings, damp basements, and other similar areas. In these kinds of situations, it’s of crucial importance to have a tool that can be attached to your belt.
Fortunately, most of today’s quality models are quite capable of surviving falls up to 10 feet.
Is It Reliable Enough?
A reliable and consistent model won’t leave you helpless when you need it the most. Some multimeters feature the so-called auto-shutoff function, which puts the entire device to sleep once it’s been inactive for a set period of time. As you can already guess, this saves the battery’s energy and allows the tool to work longer without the need to change the battery.
Furthermore, it’s useful to have a low battery warning signal — an excellent measure for avoiding unexpected power cut-offs.
With these factors in mind, you should be able to purchase a model that will serve you for the years to come. Good luck!
Conclusion
Having an automotive multimeter by your side at all times can be incredibly helpful if you’re a serious handyman, whether you’re just fixing things around your own house or making a living out of it. With a quality model, you’ll be able to check a myriad of items with it, while easily reading values on a big digital screen.
Unlike some years ago, these tools are no longer too expensive, and should be well within the budget for most of us. The only issue here is the fact that there are so many different brands and models on the market. Selecting just one model can be a tough business!
But, have no worries – we’re here to do the leg work for you. We thoroughly analyzed the most popular automotive multimeters and gave you an insight into their features, functions, design, price, advantages, and flaws. Our reviews are very informative but still comprehensive and straightforward, and they should assist you in finding the right device for your needs.
Don’t forget to check out our best automotive multimeter buyer’s guide above, if you haven’t already. Then you’ll know which features to look for. Follow the points mentioned there, read our reviews, and you’ll find a reliable tool that will serve you well for many years!
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