Are you looking for the best mechanics multimeter to diagnose an electrical problem in your car? I understand how difficult it can be without the proper tools. An automotive multimeter is a handheld device that measures electric components’ voltage, current, and resistance. You can use one to test the strength of your car’s battery, locate electrical problems, and even diagnose problems with headlights, rogue circuits, and other components.
If you’re new to automotive multimeters, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by their capabilities. To help narrow your search, I reviewed, tested, and tried the 5 best automotive multimeters in the market.
Things To Consider Before Choosing Best Mechanics Multimeter
When shopping for a multimeter, you should consider its accuracy. Professionals suggest choosing models that users can adjust to ensure accuracy. You must also consider the fit and finish of a multimeter, its ease of use, safety, and the number of test functions it can perform.
Remember that working with electricity can be hazardous; even a vehicle’s electrical system can result in indigenous injuries. Automotive is a huge and complicated industry requiring highly accurate and dependable standard troubleshooting tools. It is not only necessary to test voltage and amps in automotive, but a meter should also include rpm, temperature, pulse width measurements, and some other dedicated features.
Top 5 Best Mechanics Multimeters
| Choices | Best For |
|---|---|
| Klein mm700 | Best for electricians |
| Fluke 115 Digital Multimeter | Best for regular uses |
| PDI DM-930 Automotive Multimeter | Best for automotive measurements |
| Allosun Digital Multimeter EM13 | Best for the automotive industry |
| Fluke 177 True-RMS Digital Multimeter | Bets For Professional mechanics |
Our Top Picks Of Best Mechanic Multimeters of All Time
1. Klein mm700 AutomotiveMultimeter
The Klein Tools MM700 is an automatically-ranging TRMS digital multimeter that measures AC/DC voltage, current, and resistance. Temperature, capacitance, frequency, duty cycle, diodes, and continuity can also be measured. Klein Tools Test and measurement product line was created entirely by electricians for electricians. So, Years of field research, combined with extensive input from electricians all over the country, inspired the development of meters and electrical testers packed with innovative, time-saving features.
Specifications
Display Counts:4000 Counts
Auto/Manual ranging: Yes
AC/DC Voltage measuring range: 600V
AC/DC Current measuring range: 10A
Resistance: up to 40 MΩ
Frequency: up to 60Hz
Capacitance: up to 10,000µF
Pros
- Autoranging
- High safety rating
- Ideal for troubleshooting basic automotive electrical problems
- Easy to use
Cons
- Battery life is low
Package includes
This multimeter comes with a carrying pouch, test leads, alligator clips, thermocouple with adapter, and AAA batteries
2. Fluke 115 Digital Multimeter
The Fluke 115 is another best budget mechanics multimeter. This compact meter is designed for field service technicians and is a solution for a wide range of electrical and electronic testing applications. The Fluke 115 measures true-RMS voltage and current with 6000 count resolution and test diode frequency, continuity, and capacitance. A large white LED backlight makes work easy in dim lights. It has been independently tested to ensure that it is safe to use in CAT III 600 Volt environments.
Specifications
Display Counts:4000 Counts
Auto/Manual ranging: Yes
AC/DC Voltage measuring range: 1000V
AC/DC Current measuring range: 10A
Resistance: up to 40 MΩ
Frequency: up to 500 kHz
Capacitance: up to 4000µF
Pros
- Rugged and accurate enough for professional use,
- Lightweight and compact,
- Backlit digital display for easy reading
- Auto-ranging,
- Quick verifications, and field service
Cons
- Relatively expensive
Package Includes
The box includes a 4mm silicone test lead set, a manual for users, a holster, and a 9V battery. The battery is already installed in the meter.
3. PDI DM-930 Handheld Automotive Multimeter
The DM-930 takes the next step in advanced automotive meters to combine accuracy, range, and durability. It is one of the best mechanics multimeters. It is resistant to dust, water, and impact. It can measure current, alternate current/direct current voltage, rotational speed, temperature, capacitance, frequency, resistance, dwell angle, %duty cycle, ms-pulse width, and perform diode tests. Additionally, the Hold functions enable technicians to take all of the measurements of high-tech vehicles.
Specifications
Display Counts:4000 Counts
Auto/Manual ranging: Yes
AC/DC Voltage measuring range: 600V
AC/DC Current measuring range: 20A
Resistance: up to 40 MΩ
Frequency: up to 40MHz
Capacitance: up to 40mF
Pros
- Waterproof build
- magnetic hanging strap
- accurate measurement
- Versatile and durable
- Date hold function
Cons
- Sometimes it loses calibration for measurements, and cause trouble.
The Package Includes
The IP67 Test Leads, Alligator Clip Tips, Inductive Pickup (RPM), K-type Thermocouple, K-type adapter, and PDI Soft Side Tool Bag with the DM-930.
4. ALLOSUN Automotive Digital Multimeter EM13
Em13 is an excellent measuring tool for auto repair and service. Portable in size, but with excellent and multi-functional capabilities. It can measure AC and DC voltage, current, resistance, diode, continuity, capacitance, frequency, duty cycle, and Celsius/Fahrenheit temperature. Moreover, it can also measure RPM, Dwell angle, fuel injection duration, alternator, and fault codes.
Specifications
Display Counts:4000 Counts
Auto/Manual ranging: Yes
AC/DC Voltage measuring range: 600V
AC/DC Current measuring range: 20A
Resistance: up to 40 KΩ
Frequency: up to 400Ω
Capacitance: up to 400nF
Pros
- Dual display Screen
- Backlight
- Auto Manual ranging
- Overload Protection
- Hold, Store, Recall, and Erase data
- Automatic Power Off
Cons
- It has no lead to power battery when it’s finished.
The Package Includes
The meter comes with 1 user manual., 1 pair test lead, inductive pickup, and 1 piece K Type Thermocouple.
5. Fluke 177 True-RMS Digital Multimeter
The Fluke 177 multimeter is the first preference of professional technicians due to its precision, dependability, and ease of use. The Fluke 177 is the industry standard, best mechanics multimeter with all the features you need to troubleshoot and repair many problems in electrical and electronic systems. It has been independently tested for safe use in CAT IV 600 V/ CAT III 1000 V environments instrument. Moreover, it comes with built-in probe holders for storage and convenience when making measurements. Battery replacement without voiding calibration. The integrated over-molded protection provides superior impact protection for your meter.
Specifications
Display Counts:6000 Counts
Auto/Manual ranging: Yes
AC/DC Voltage measuring range: 600V
AC/DC Current measuring range: 20A
Resistance: up to 40 MΩ
Frequency: up to 40MHz
Capacitance: up to 40mF
Pros
- Auto Manual ranging
- Auto hold feature
- Easy to use
- It comes with a backlight to work in dim light settings.
Cons
- The backlight fades after some time.
The package includes
A Fluke 177 Digital Multimeter and 1 pair of test leads. Installed a battery of 9V and a quick user manual.
Buying Guide
Choosing a multimeter is not difficult, but if you are a beginner, it can be a tricky task. When shopping for the best mechanics multimeter, there are numerous factors to consider. The most important factors to consider are accuracy, durability, and whether or not it has built-in protection.
Before choosing the best meter, you should decide on the budget and requirements. Here are some tips for you.
Safe And Ease Of Use
One of the most important considerations is safety. Always purchase one with a protection rating of at least CAT III 600V. That will keep you safe from electrical shocks and other hazards if you accidentally touch two terminals on the device or if your circuit has a short circuit.
Choosing a useful multimeter for measuring voltage, current resistance, and frequency.
Price
Choosing cheaper meters for ordinary tasks is a good idea, but f you want to use them for professional work, spending more money will be a better choice.
Auto-ranging feature
Instead of manually adjusting the dial, auto-ranging allows the meter to automatically detect the range of the measured electricity and adjust accordingly.
Display
Spending more money on a multimeter with high resolution is a better idea for an easy-to-read display.
Diode measuring Feature
Select multimeters made for specific tasks, such as testing diodes or measuring frequency. They are more accurate than standard meters.
Final Words
A multimeter is a device that measures voltage, current, and resistance. With extensive research, I attempted to show you the 5 best mechanics multimeter, each with some minute changes. However, Fluke 177 multimeter is my favorite due to its reliable work True RMS functions and wide range of functions. It provides precise measurements for automobile use. Hopefully, this blog will help you choose the best meters available today. If you haven’t choosen anything yet the check my list of multimeters for automotive use.
FAQs
What is the best multimeter for household use?
A general-purpose multimeter will suffice for the majority of home applications. It is critical to remember that you should only purchase a digital multimeter and not an analog one.
Should I choose the expensive multimeter?
A variety of factors can influence a multimeter’s price. The cheapest ones are usually untrustworthy and can provide inaccurate readings. Additionally, if you want the best mechanics multimeter, you should be prepared to spend between $30 and $50.
Why choosing a True RMS Multimeter is a good idea?
You must understand the distinction between true RMS and average reading multimeters. Average reading multimeters are less expensive but may not be as accurate as true RMS meters.