In order to properly diagnose any electrical fault in any component in your car or home, you need one of the top-performing and best automotive multimeters. For anyone unaware of this device, it’s an instrument designed to measure electric current, voltage, and usually resistance, typically over several ranges of value.
The most common things you can do with this tool include checking the strength of your car’s battery, locating electrical issues, and even determining issues with headlights, rogue circuits, and more. If you’re totally overwhelmed and don’t know which one to go for because of the plenty of options available, read on as we uncover the best automotive multimeters that will serve your needs.
Contents
Best Automotive Multimeters Of 2024
The following is a list of the best automotive multimeters of 2024 at a glance:
- Best Overall: Fluke 115 Digital Multimeter
- Best for Beginners: INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
- Best With Extra Features: Fluke 88V
- Best For Home Use: Klein Tools MM325 Multimeter
- Best Display: AstroAI TRMS 6000 Digital Multimeter
- Best Analog: Gardner Bender GMT-319 Multimeter
- Best Budget: AstroAI Multimeter Tester 2000
Best Overall: Fluke 115 Digital Multimeter
The Fluke 115 digital multimeter is literally the most accurate instrument you can find out there. Its true-RMS (root mean square) accuracy helps it provide precise measurements even on non-linear loads. This multimeter is typically targeted at professional mechanics and electricians. A cool thing about it is that it can accurately measure up to 600.0 ohms, aside from reaching up to 600.0 V for AC/DC readings.
Cost: $226
Pros
- Highly precise
- Sturdy structures help to prevent harm
- Convenient for single-handed use
- Wide operating temperature range
Cons
- Display can be difficult to see
Best for Beginners: INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
If you’re an inexperienced individual who just started with a multimeter, the INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter is perfect for you. This is simply because of its simplistic design, color-coded interface, and single-setting resistance readers. Attachable test leads, holders, and a stand for increased efficiency are typically shipped with the multimeter, which makes it more convenient to use. When performing electronic measurements, the dial will automatically be set to the correct range for accurate results, thanks to its auto-ranging scales. It is also UL-certified, meaning it is safe for home and automotive applications.
Cost: $32
Pros
- Simple design
- Low cost
- Color-coded dials and buttons
Cons
- LED lights work inconsistently
- A few extras
Best With Extra Features: Fluke 88V Deluxe Automotive Multimeter
If you require a multimeter that can handle literally almost any current thrown its way, then the Fluke 88V is a must-buy. It is rated CAT III up to 1,000.0V and CAT IV to 600.0V (safety). While it is exceptionally good at measuring frequencies and resistance, the Fluke 88-5 also determines continuity, diode testing, and temperature. When we talk about measurement, you can get up to 1,000.0V AC/DC and 50.0 ohms from the multimeter.
Cost: $525
Pros
- Wide operating temperature range
- High voltage
- Multiple testing features
Cons
- Not suitable for those on a budget
Best Home Usage: Klein Tools MM325 Multimeter
The Klein MM325 has proven to be suitable for residential usage since it performs the most basic things needed at home. It is able to measure AC/DC voltage up to 600 volts and 10 amperes of DC current, as well as functioning as an audible continuity tester. The multimeter doesn’t really care about low light conditions, thanks to its backlit LED display, making it usable anytime.
Cost: $35
Pros
- Large backlit display
- Heavy-duty case
- User-friendly lead alert protection
Cons
- No auto-range scale
Related: How to test a car battery with a multimeter
Best Display: AstroAI TRMS 6000 Digital Multimeter
While the aforementioned Klein MM325 has a large backlit display, the AstroAI TRMS 6000 outperforms it in that aspect. Even though it can accurately measure AC and DC current, voltage, capacitance, frequency, and more, the display is the coolest part about it. Just so you know, there’s no need to worry about a low-light environment; the AstroAI has got you covered!
Cost: $42
Pros
- Explosion-proof tubes
- Automatic shutoff feature
- Overload protection
Cons
- The result takes time
- Test leads of poor quality
Best Analog: Gardner Bender GMT-319 Multimeter
Old-time multimeter users might prefer analog to digital models. These types of multimeters aren’t always precise and accurate at some point, but they’re a great option for people who are already used to them. On top of that, they cost less. You may consider it for basic household tasks, such as testing wall outlets, batteries, and circuit breakers. Bear in mind that more precise jobs require a digital model.
Cost: $23
Pros
- 7 measurement functions
- Straightforward to use and read
- Includes batteries
Cons
- Less accurate as digital models
Best Budget: AstroAI Multimeter Tester 2000
This digital multimeter comes in at $13. Yep! You heard that right. So, what is it capable of doing, then? Does it even work at all? What makes it different from the others on this list? Well, most of the basic automotive and residential tasks can be done using this low-budget multimeter. It features AC and DC voltage capabilities, so you can test wall outlets and batteries, as well as DC current, for troubleshooting automotive issues.
Cost: $13
Pros
- Straightforward controls
- Easy to use
- Compact size
Cons
- No AC readings
- Less accurate as more expensive options
Other Best Automotive Multimeters Of 2024
Best Splurge: Fluke 87V Max Multimeter
Best Clamp: Klein Tools CL800 Digital Clamp Meter
Best Build Quality: Klein Tools MM400 Multimeter
Final Thoughts
Finding the best automotive multimeters always depends on your preferences. Do you prefer digital or analog, simple or complex, more accurate or less accurate, expensive or low-budget? Whatever it may be, one of the ones covered in this article should fit into your category. Here’s a quick recap of all the best automotive multimeters we covered for 2024:
- Best Overall: Fluke 115 Digital Multimeter
- Best for Beginners: INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
- Best With Extra Features: Fluke 88V
- Best For Home Use: Klein Tools MM325 Multimeter
- Best Display: AstroAI TRMS 6000 Digital Multimeter
- Best Analog: Gardner Bender GMT-319 Multimeter
- Best Budget: AstroAI Multimeter Tester 2000
Thank you for your time, and I’ll see you in the next one!
