It’s crucial for anyone who owns a car to have the top-notch multimeter for automotive use. With this advanced digital device, identifying and resolving leaks becomes a piece of cake. Despite this, it can be challenging to select the most fitting multimeter from the extensive choices present today. This is particularly the case for novices who find it hard to sift through the technical specifications and jargon.
On the other hand, many professionals spend lots of time reading reviews, comparing prices, and checking stats. To ease the struggle, our team tested different multimeters to help you understand their performance, features, and flaws. If you are thinking about buying a digital multimeter, read through our review to ease your search.
5 Best Multimeters For Automotive
Innova 3340 Professional Automotive Digital Multimeter
The Innova 3340 Professional Multimeter has various features making it user-friendly for beginners and professionals in the automotive repair field. If your car engine experiences problems, you can use Innova 3340 to determine the issue. This tool is specially designed to test alternator diodes, determine engine problems, and assess solenoids, duty cycle, wiring, breaker points, switches.
Innova 3340 features a temperature probe that displays both Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature readings. Users will also get the indicative clamp that determines their car’s revolutions per minute (RPM). This multimeter can test every detail under your car’s bonnet, including the wiring and breaker points.
One of the best features of the Innova 3340 is that it’s reasonably sized, handheld, and portable. It comes with a carrying case that fits in your toolkit with ease. Besides your car, the Innova 3340 can come in handy to help you execute household tasks. For example, it has voltage meter/electric multimeter characteristics, meaning that you can use it to determine whether wall sockets are working well or not.
If you are looking for the ideal tool for an automotive and electric multimeter, the Innova 3340 is perfect. Additionally, this multimeter has an auto shut, auto-ranging, and over-load security. It can measure 15 amps at most for device testing.
While the Innova 3340 has multiple features, it is cost-friendly. Further, buyers get a one-year warranty covering replacements and repairs. With an input impedance of 10 MegOhm, Innova 3340 is safe for automotive and electrical purposes.
Pros
- Auto-range function
- Durable probe storage
- Readable display
- Ability to read the temperature
- Automatic cut-off
Cons
- Delay in the continuity tester
- Small screen
- No backlight
Final Verdict
The Innova 3340 Digital Multimeter is ideal for an auto technician. DIY enthusiasts can also use it around the house for general testing tasks. The tool is suitable for use in a garage. Both beginners and seasoned technicians can use it.
Innova 3340 Professional Automotive Digital Multimeter
Read more: How To Test Car Battery Amps With A Multimeter
AstroAI Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000
The AstroAI TRMS 6000 can test and measure AC/DC, resistance, AC/DC voltage, continuity, capacitance, frequency, and temperature. The device comes with various features and functions which make it easy to use. Its backlit LCD screen allows users to read results in limited light conditions, which reduces errors. However, the backlight switches off automatically after 10 seconds.
AstroAI TRMS 6000 has a fitted kickstand that you can use to rest the tool on a flat surface while reading the measurements and performing tests hands-free. The data hold feature stores your previous readings and comes in handy if you don’t have paper and pen at hand. However, the next test usually overrides the previous one.
You can suspend the AstroAI 6000 with the help of its magnetic hanging loop. However, exercise caution because the loop is not strong enough. Some of the inbuilt features in AstroAI 6000 include F10A/600V fuse ceramic tubes and explosion-protected F400mA/600V with double security.
The low battery indicator comes in handy to prevent unforeseen downtime, while the auto shut-off feature after fifteen minutes of inactivity extends battery life. The AstroAI 6000 is sturdy and ergonomic. It also features a rubber sleeve enabling it to withstand bumps, knocks, occasional drops, and daily wear and tear.
Pros
- Robust and durable
- Large display to facilitate precise readings
- Three-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Different testing modes
Cons
- The kickstand is hard to open
- The backlight switches off automatically after 10 seconds
Final Verdict
The AstroAI 6000 is ideal for DIY enthusiasts and auto technicians. It comes with impressive precision levels for a reasonable price. This tool will be suitable if you are a small business owner or freelance technician working on a budget.
AstroAI Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000
Fluke-88-5 88V Automotive Multimeter
Apart from updated measuring ranges and excellent voltage, the Fluke-88-5 88V multimeter features a broad capacitance range which is ideal for electronics. Additionally, this tool measures conductance, resistance, and frequency.
Fluke 88V comes with an inbuilt thermometer facilitating temperature without needing a separate device. The auto and manual ranging modes are user-friendly, while continuity measurements are precise and fast.
While the Fluke 88V is more effective on the auto range, users can use iron manual mode with programmable ranges to facilitate fact response time. Fluke 88V can manage 10A continuous in both DC and AC ranges, 20A for thirty seconds. Such performance makes the tool ideal for engineers because they need a higher amperage score.
The 88V has a CAT IV to 600V and CAT III to 1000V safety rating, meaning it’s secure to use. The Fluke 88V is an average root-mean-square (RMS) responder regardless of its excellent features. As a result, it does not offer True RMS performance, meaning that users cannot measure current signals and non-linear AC voltage with precision. However, this fact should not worry an auto technician because most work requires DC.
The 88V’s 10MΩ input impedance is ideal when testing electronic circuitry. It’s less likely to scupper or damage resistance values and sensitive equipment. The auto-hold feature in the Fluke 88V is excellent for automatically recording higher values and storing them. The advanced temperature measuring range is also a great feature.
Pros
- Excellent automotive functionality
- Fast, accurate, and reliable
- Great battery life
Cons
- Bulky and costly
- Its leads are only compatible with fluke multimeters
Final Verdict
Apart from auto technicians, Fluke 88V is also ideal for electricians in the industrial sector. Its easy-to-use interface makes it suitable for both seasoned and novice technicians. The tool is also great for general electrical tasks even though it lacks True RMS and is not as accurate as the 87V. The 88V’s DC defaults and RPM checker make it an excellent option for the workshop, while its rugged build enables it durable.
Fluke-88-5 88V Automotive Multimeter
Klein Tools MM400 Multimeter
The Klein MM400 multimeter is a premium tool with various features and functions like frequency, capacitance, and temperature. The device comes with the category III to 600V safety ranking, making it ideal for different applications.
MM400 is specially designed to endure one meter (3.3-foot) drop and daily wear and tear onsite. The battery compartment is easy to access, and the gadget also features a low battery indicator. MM400 package includes batteries, thermocouple and adapter, test leads, and a user manual.
The manual is easy to understand and helps non-electricians use the meter easily. MM400 is accurate and versatile for the automotive industry. Cost-friendly and easy to obtain AAA batteries power the MM400. While its display is backlit, it comes in a SAS bar graph and is reasonably standard. Temperature is shown in either Celsius or Fahrenheit and comes through the traditional input method via a thermocouple.
Are you a beginner working on a limited budget? MM400 can be a great option, even though it doesn’t have complex features. You can use MM400 in controlled and basic electromagnetic environments like businesses, residential areas, and light-industry places.
Pros
- It has a versatile socket
- Cable leads are durable and thick
- Features a magnetic strap
Cons
- Inaccurate temperature readings
- Not a True RMS
Final Verdict
The Klein MM400 is ideal for technicians performing standard electrical tasks who don’t need excellent precision, the ability to test sensitive electronics, and speed. For technicians performing complex electrical circuits, this tool may not be ideal. However, it performs basic tasks well, such as checking a car’s electric system.
Klein Tools MM400 Multimeter
Fluke 117 True RMS Multimeter
The Fluke 117 features the functions of the famous 115 with the inclusion of VoltAlert to facilitate swift voltage detection. It is a small tool with an ergonomic chassis, a backlit large trademark display, and fits well in the palm.
The 117’s features AC/DC amperage and voltage, continuity, resistance, frequency, and capacitance. It has a CAT III rating to 600V safety rating, enabling it to evaluate control panel boards, appliances, outlets, and three-phase and single-phase switchgear. The amperage range of FLuke 117 features a sensitivity of 1 mA (milliamp). The lack of a dedicated micro-amp or milliamp range should not cause alarm, especially in general-purpose use. While Fluke 117 does not come with a carrying case, the package includes a manual, leads, and holster. The manual is easy to understand for both professionals and non-beginners. It’s available in different languages, and users can also download the PDF format.
Pros
- Massive backlit screen
- Excellent build quality
- Responsive bar graph
- Precise frequency check
- Unique features like auto volt settings and non-contact voltage disclosure
Cons
- No micro-amp/milliamp range
- Poor display resolution
Final verdict
The Fluke 117 is ideal for DIY enthusiasts and general electricians. It is suitable for hospitals, the light industry, schools, homes, and trainees. However, lab technicians cannot use the 117 to diagnose problems in complex electronic circuitry. However, the tool is an excellent backup for service and auto technicians.
Fluke 117 True RMS Multimeter
Read more: Fluke 117 Vs. 115: Which One Suits You Best?
Best Multimeters For Automotive: Comparison Chart
| WEIGHT | DIMENSIONS | MAX AC/DC VOLTAGE | CURRENT | AUTO-RANGING | BATTERY REQUIRED | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Innova 3340 | 0.5 pounds | 12.5 x 4.5 x 6.5 inches | 600V | 15A | Yes | Yes |
| AstroAl TRMS 6000 | 1.3 pounds | 8.66 x 2.28 x 6.69 inches | 600V | 10A | Yes | No |
| Fluke-88-5 | 1.3 pounds | 2.06 x 3.86 x 7.93 inches | 1000V | 10A | Yes | Yes |
| Klein Tools MM400 | 0.5 pounds | 1.78 x 3.07 x 6 inches | 600V | 10A | Yes | No |
| Fluke 117 | 1.21 pounds | 6.57 x 3.31 x 1.81 inches | 600V | 10A | Yes | Yes |
Read more: Engine Hot AC Off: What Does It Mean And How To Fix It?
Recommendation
Are you looking for the best multimeter in safety features, functionality, and user-friendliness without trading off many features? In this case, the Innova 3340 would be ideal. If you are a professional looking for the best multimeter with excellent features regardless of the price, the Fluke-88-5 88V would be the best option. However, if you are interested in a multimeter that doesn’t require batteries, the AstroAI TRMS 6000 and Klein Tools MM400 would be ideal.
