Best Automotive Multimeters 2022 (Review & Buying Guide)
Do you own a car or truck and need the best multimeter for automotive?
In addition to the typical home electrical circuit, the automotive electrical circuit also needs a good multimeter to check various parameters. Some multimeters are especially instrumental in giving you a current update about the electrical system.
You know, the modern vehicle is equipped with multiple electrical connections to entertain small devices like sound systems, phone chargers, heaters, and more. All these facilities generate the importance of automotive multimeter.
Therefore, we have separated the best multimeter for automotive to save your time and cost.
This is the list of the Best Automotive Multimeter that is good and convenient to use.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Best Multimeters For Automotive
1. Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter
Fluke is introducing you to a smaller model that is safe to use and cuts down battery usage. It is safe to use and light in weight. If you are looking for something good in less price, this multimeter is a good option to go.
Quick Summary:
- Pocket size
- Accuracy is 0.5%
- The safety rating of class 3
- Automatic shut down
- Weight is 0.67 pounds
- The dimension is 5.12 x 1.06 x 2.56 inches
- Need two AAA batteries
- The resistance range is 40 MΩ
- Yellow external
What inside box:
- Fluke 101
- Test lead
This multimeter is rectangular with a lightweight design. The front face is grey, while the sides are yellow. The interface of this Fluke model is too simple. The upper zone houses a digital screen that is wider.
Moving further below, the only two buttons are present at left and right. At the very next area, a rotating knob is integrated to manage different functions.
Applications
From basic options, Fluke can provide voltage and resistance. It cannot measure AC or DC. The advanced measurements that can be done with this model include duty cycle, frequency, diode, capacitance, and continuity.
Data hold capacity
This unit comes with data holding capacity. A separate button is integrated at the left to entertain this feature. You can check the results even the probes have been removed.
Power saving
Fluke 101 is very efficient in saving power all the time. This function has become possible due to integrated automatic shut-off technology. The battery provides the necessary power to let it work. It needs a pair of AAA batteries to let it work.
Best of all, the battery compartment is easy to access. So, the battery can be replaced with ease when needed.
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2. AstroAI AM33D Digital Multimeter
As a faster multimeter, AstroAl is here to provide efficient results. The integrated double fuse provides an additional layer to ensure protection.
Quick Summary:
- The weight is 0.4 pounds
- The dimension is 5.1 x 2.8 x 1.4 inches
- Appearance is red
- Made of ABS
- The voltage needed is 9 volts
- Size is medium
- It comes with a double fuse
- Sampling speed is two times
- Bundled with overload protection
- Warranty is 1 year
What inside box:
- AstroAI AM33D
- Test lead
The shape of this multimeter is a bit rectangle and compact. The top area is housed by an LED screen that is clear and easy to read. On the lower side, two buttons are present on each side. Then came the rotating knob for different purposes. The lowest line houses the probe terminals.
At the rear face, a kickstand is integrated to provide you with hands-free usage.
Display
The display is an LED type that is wide enough to provide excellent readability. The integrated white backlight allows the reading in the area with less light. The digits are big and large that look clear against a white and bright background.
Application
It can easily measure AC and DC voltage, DC, resistance, diode, continuity, capacitance, and more. Keep in mind; this model is not designed to measure AC.
Safety
Safety is ensured by this model of AstroAl by several safety features that include overload protection and double fuse. Now, worry-less usage can be enjoyed in every scenario.
For external safety, a red rubber sleeve is available. If the unit dropped accidentally, there would be fewer chances for harm.
Speed
This multimeter is an advanced type that is fast enough to provide quick results. Generally speaking, the typical sampling speed is two folds higher.
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3. Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter
Quick Summary:
- Weight is 1.21 pounds
- The dimension is 6.57 x 3.31 x 1.81 inches
- Need one AAA battery
- Equipped with True RMS
- Made of plastic
- The power source is corded electric
- It comes with VoltAlert technology
- White LED backlight
- Working temperature is -10 C to 50 C
- Appearance is yellow
What inside box:
- AstroAI AM33D
- Test lead
Fluke 117 has come up with an easy interface. A digital screen houses the top area of the front face. Below is a row of four buttons to support different functions. The rotating knob occupies the mid-left side to manage multiple functions. Then came probe terminals that are present at the lowest border of the device.
Accuracy
Accuracy is the main speciality of Fluke. Therefore, this model of Fluke also ensures accurate results with the support of True RMS. Non-linear loads can be calculated, and there would be zero chances for inaccurate results.
Display
The display is larger and wider. In a lightning area, there would be no chances for viewing the readings. So, you cannot have good readability in less light.
Battery
A battery powers this multimeter. According to manufacturers, the average life of the battery is 400 hours. To provide the power, you need to have one AAA battery.
Support
The supportive stand adorns the back face of Fluke 117. This is so to provide hands-free usage.
Technology
Fluke 117 is bundled with VoltAlert technology. The main purpose of this latest technology is to provide non-contact voltage detection.
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4. Fluke 115 Compact True-RMS Digital Multimeter
Quick Summary:
- It comes with True RMS
- White LED backlight
- Current is 20 A
- The safety rating of class 3
- Appearance is yellow
- Need 2 AA batteries
- The power source is corded electric
- The dimension is 6.57 x 1.82 x 3.31 inches
- Need 9 volts
What inside box:
- AstroAI AM33D
- Test lead
The outer face of Fluke 115 is similar to Fluke 117. The top zone is housed by a digital screen. Then came a row of four buttons. At the mid-left areas, a rotating knob is present to manage different functions. Three probe terminals are present at the lowest side of Fluke 115.
Secondly, it is compact and provides easy usage.
Accuracy
Accuracy is ensured with true RMS that provides accurate results for non-linear loads.
Display
The display type of this unit is digital. It is wider and larger to provide excellent readability. It is integrated with a white backlight that allows visibility in the area with less light.
Application
In addition to basic testing of current, resistance, and voltage, this Fluke model can check capacitance, continuity, diode testing, and frequency.
Safety
This unit of Fluke is safe to use and belongs to the safety rating class of 3 that is specific for 600 volts.
Support
This unit comes with an integrated support stand. This profile lets you enjoy hands-free usage every time you need it.
Temperature
You can check the temperature with this unit. The operating temperature of this unit is -10 C to 50 C. Discussing storage temperature, it is -40 C to 60 C.
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5. Actron CP7677 AutoTroubleShooter – Digital Multimeter
A unique model of Actron is here to provide you with enhanced visibility. This has become due to its extra-large screen that even cannot be provided by very famous names in the market.
Quick Summary:
- Auto-troubleshooter
- Appearance is orange
- Weight is 1.3 pounds
- Extra-large digital screen
- Reverse polarity indication
- The dimension is 2.7 x 2.2 x 1.7 inches
- It comes with a protective boot
- Impedance is 10 MΩ
What inside box:
- AstroAI AM33D
- Test lead
Design
This unit of Actron bears a digital screen at the upper side of the front face. Hold, and power buttons are present on the lower side. Each of which occupies the opposite side.
A rotating knob is integrated at the mid of the unit to manage different functions. On the lowest side, for probes, terminals are present in a single row. At the back face, a support stand is integrated to ensure hands-free usage.
Display
This model is unique with an extra-large display. In addition, the digits are equally larger and black to provide you with higher readability.
Indicators
To ensure easy usage, this model is adorned with low battery indicators, reverse polarity indicators, and lead connector reminders. All these features work collectively to make it a good unit.
Function
This unit measures charging, starting, fuel delivery, and ignition system in addition to typical features. It has a built-in button to display data even after the removal of probes.
Components
Other than Actron CP7677, the components that come with this multimeter are a protective cover, test leads, holding stand, alligator clips, and a basic guide for its accurate usage.
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6. EnnoLogic eM860T Digital Multimeter
Not very famous, ennoLogic is safe to use and provides accurate results all the time. This unit comes with a protective case for external safety. The backlight is integrated to provide clear visibility in less light.
Quick Summary:
- Equipped with True RMS
- Auto-ranging system
- Non-contact voltage detection
- It comes with a carrying case
- Equipped with white backlight
- Appearance is red
- It comes with 0.5% accuracy support
- Impedance is 10 MΩ
- Weight is 0.96 pounds
- The dimension is 7.48 x 1.57 x 3.54 inches
- Made of plastic
- The power source is corded electric
What inside box:
- TRMS Digital Multimeter eM860T
- Test lead
- Carrying Case
- Temperature probe
This unit is rectangular that has a red appearance. A digital screen adorns the top side of this unit. Below are the two rows of six buttons. Al the lower side, a rotating knob is present for various settings. Two rows of four terminals are here to entertain the probes.
Display
The digital display at the top is integrated with a white backlight to support you in an area with less light. The digits are larger and black that looks clear against a whiter and brighter background.
Accuracy
This unit comes with a True RMS and auto-ranging system. Both these features work in combination to provide accurate readings for every calculation.
Applications
In addition to basic calculations, this unit also provides testing for capacitance, temperature, frequency, duty cycle, and more.
Battery
This unit gets the necessary power from the battery. The battery power gets off within 15 minutes of non-use. In this way, the battery life gets extended and provides longer service.
Safety
This unit is safe to use and comes under the listing. It belongs to the safety rating class of 3 and 6 that has voltage values 1000 volts and 600 volts, respectively.
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7. INNOVA 3340 Professional Automotive Digital Multimeter
As a famous model, Innova 3340 is introduced with automatic shut-off technology. This unit is safe to use for electrical and automotive usage. At a cheaper rate, it comes with all the necessary features.
Quick Summary:
- Appearance is blue
- Automatic shut off system
- Overload protection
- Auto-ranging system
- It comes with a carrying bag
- Weight is 0.5 Pounds
- The dimension is 12.5 x 4.5 x 6.5 inches
- Need a pair of AA batteries
- Warranty is 1 year
What inside box:
- INNOVA 3340
- Test lead
- 2 AA batteries
- Cover Included
Innova 3340 is an upgraded model that has a simple interface. A digital screen houses the top of this unit. Below it is four buttons in a row that belongs to different functions. A rotating knob for diverse functions houses the mid-section. The lowest four terminals are specific for probes.
On both sides of the multimeter, two probe holders are designed for easy carrying.
Display
The display is wider and larger with black digits which are bigger. This design provides convenient readability.
Protection
This unit is safe to use as it comes with over-load protection. So, there are no chances for the current to cross a certain limit.
Accuracy
Like other famous models, this unit is efficient to use due to the auto-ranging system. All the provided results would be accurate for sure.
Battery
It comes with smart technology to power it off automatically. This system saves the battery from being wasted. This feature makes the unit amazingly durable.
Application
From basic to advance, all types of calculations can be measured. These include AC and DC, AC and DC voltage, resistance, temperature, duty cycle, frequency, and more.
Accessories
With this multimeter, you would get a storage case, temperature probe, clamp, and a manual for guidance.
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8. Fluke 77-IV Digital Multimeter
Fluke 77-IV is another famous model that is ergonomic design. The outer cover is made of plastic and uses a pair of batteries as a powerhouse. Provide this multimeter with two AA batteries and enjoy non-stop work.
Quick Summary:
- Weight is 1.5 pounds
- The dimension is 9.38 x 6.38 x 3.25 inches
- Appearance is yellow
- The automatic and manual ranging system
- Built-in probe holders
- Ergonomic design
- Made of plastic
- The power source is corded electric
- 0.3 percent accuracy
- Need two pairs of AA batteries
What inside box:
- INNOVA 3340
- Test lead
- 2 AA batteries
- Cover Included
This model of Fluke comes in a yellow external sleeve, and the overall shape is rectangular. At the front face, the top digital screen is followed by buttons, a rotating knob, and four-probe terminals, respectively. The wait is not too high to disturb you.
Display
The display is large and wide for enhanced visibility. The digits are large and black that looks clear against a white background. Whether your working area has less or no light, you can continue your work with an integrated backlight that provides visibility.
Accuracy
This unit is very efficient in providing you with accurate results due to the auto-ranging system. Additionally, manual ranging is also available for the experts. So, whether you are an expert or a new user, both types of ranging systems are here to entertain you.
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9. Fluke 2117440 88V Automotive Multimeter
Meet a different model of Fluke that comes with an integrated thermometer to save your money. This unit is safe to use and provides non-stop service due to its stronger profile.
Quick Summary:
- Appearance is yellow
- Manual and auto-ranging system
- Integrated thermometer
- The safety rating of class 3 and 4
- Shape is rectangle
- Weight is 1.8 pounds
- It comes with NIST-Traceable certification
What inside box:
- Fluke 2117440 88V
- Test lead
This model of Fluke is a different type that has a rectangle shape and yellow appearance. A digital screen houses the top position to show results. The lower side houses 8 buttons in two rows. Then comes the rotating knob. On the farther side, four-probe terminals are placed in two rows.
Display
The integrated display is a digital type. It has an integrated backlight that is white and offers clear visibility in less delicate areas.
Application
Like other fluke models, it can entertain both basic and advanced measurements. From AC and DC voltage and current, you can test resistance, temperature, frequency, capacitance, and more.
Accuracy
To ensure safety, an auto-ranging system comes at hand. Moreover, a manual ranging system is also offered to support you more. So, whether you are a beginner or an expert, you are ready to be served well.
Thermometer
Amazingly, this multimeter comes with an integrated thermometer. This feature makes this model Fluke very different among all. You do not need to purchase a separate thermometer to carry on your work.
Safety
Enhanced safety is ensured in this multimeter. It enjoys the safety rating of classes 3 and 4 that belongs to 1000 volts and 600 volts, respectively.
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10. Crenova MS8233D Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
Crenova is another famous model that is introducing thee folds faster multimeter. The white integrated backlight ensured necessary visibility. Plus, the safety features make it a unique and preferable unit among all.
Quick Summary:
- Featured with auto-ranging system
- It comes with an integrated backlight
- Bundled with double fuse
- Automatic shut off system
- Three times faster results
- Weight is 0.71 pounds
- The dimension is 5.5 x 2.8 x 1.6 inches
- Need one A battery
- Appearance is orange
- Made of ABS and PVC
- The power source is a battery
- It comes with overload protection
What inside box:
- Crenova MS8233D
- Test lead
Design
The mentioned multimeter comes with a similar outer interface to other models. A digital display houses the top position. Four buttons in a row house the very next place. All these buttons belong to different functions.
The rotating knob is present at the middle section of the multimeter. Three probe terminals are integrated at the end of the unit that forms a single line
Display
Though the display is not too large but provides efficient readability, it is integrated with a white backlight to support you in less light. The black digits look very clear against this bright background.
Safety
The manufacturers ensure 100 per cent safety with this unit. This is due to the integrated overloading protection feature. Additionally, a double fuse protects from burning.
Special points
The company has made this unit with some specially integrated functions. These include function switch, data hold, and highest value hold. The power gets off automatically. The resulting delivery is three times faster than the other unit of this line.
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THING I LIKE ABOUT IT
Tag price is affordable
Protective to use
The integrated backlight is white
The battery power does not waste
THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE
Display reading is difficult from some angles
Buying Guide
This section would introduce you to the quick tips that would help you find the best multimeter for automotive. The definition of the best multimeter gets changed according to the application in question.
While buying a good multimeter for automotive, you have to consider multiple points in addition to budget.
Display type
The multimeters come with two different types of display. It might be a digital or analog screen. Generally, an analog screen does not fit best to provide accurate results. Whether you are an expert or a beginner, the best option is to prefer digital results that offer easier readings.
Accuracy
Accuracy is the main feature on which multimeters boast. While buying the multimeters, the best option is to ensure excellent accuracy. Typically, those devices that are adorned with an auto-ranging system, in addition to True-RMS, provide accurate results.
Not that accuracy, but the quick response is equally important. When a device provides a fast result for current, voltage, resistance, or more, it would be a great option to go.
Protection
Dealing with electrical circuits might be dangerous to your life. No one wants to put his life in danger, so the good practice is to get the multimeter with an amazing safety rating. Additionally, it is worthy of getting the tester with different protective features including, overheat protection, over-current protection, burning protection, and more.
Budget
While going for buying, always try to set your budget first. If you are a professional and have to go for measurements daily, the best practice is to keep your budget higher. On the other hand, if you want to buy the multimeter for DIY purposes, then you can set your budget lower.
At the same time, safety should be ensured whether the budget is high or low.
Frequently Asked Questions
Out top 3 picks are;
1. Fluke 88V Automotive Multimeter
2. Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter
3. EnnoLogic eM860T Digital Multimeter
Several brands are emerging in the market to introduce you to multimeters. The most famous are; Fluke, AstroAl, ennoLogic, Innova, Crenova, Amprobe, and more.
From basic to advanced, all types of measurements can be done with multimeters. These calculations include temperature, capacitance, continuity, voltage, current, resistance, diode testing, and more.
Conclusion
At this point, we would highlight our final thought about the best multimeter for automotive. According to our findings, there are large automotive multimeters, but all is not good for automotive. We have extracted the best product among all to save your time.
After writing this post, we suppose that you would successfully find a good product.
Our Recommendation
If you are a professional and budget is not an issue for you, then you can purchase Fluke 2117440 88V Automotive Multimeter. It comes with an integrated thermometer and NIST certification. The manual and automatic ranging system makes it a good choice for both beginners and experts.
With the narrow budget, the good choice to pick is Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter. Its profile is strong and sturdy. With convenient usage, it gives quick and accurate results.
Table of Comparison of the Best Multimeter For Automotive
| Names | Weight | Auto-ranging | Dimension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter | 0.67 pounds | Yes | 5.12 x 1.06 x 2.56 inches |
| AstroAI AM33D Digital Multimeter | 0.4 pounds | Yes | 5.1 x 2.8 x 1.4 inches |
| Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter | 1.21 pounds | Yes | 6.57 x 3.31 x 1.81 inches |
| Fluke 115 Compact True-RMS Digital Multimeter | 1.21 pounds | Yes | 6.57 x 1.82 x 3.31 inches |
| Actron CP7677 AutoTroubleShooter – Digital Multimeter | 1.3 pounds | Yes | 2.7 x 2.2 x 1.7 inches |
| EnnoLogic eM860T Digital Multimeter | 0.96 pounds | Yes | 7.48 x 1.57 x 3.54 inches |
| INNOVA 3340 Professional Automotive Digital Multimeter | 0.5 pounds | Yes | 12.5 x 4.5 x 6.5 inches |
| Fluke 77-IV Digital Multimeter | 1.5 pounds | Yes | 9.38 x 6.38 x 3.25 inches |
| Fluke 2117440 88V Automotive Multimeter | 1.8 pounds | Yes | 10.5 x 6.3 x 3.4 inches |
| Crenova MS8233D Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter | 0.71 pounds | Yes | 5.5 x 2.8 x 1.6 inches |
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