When it comes to diagnosing and troubleshooting electrical systems in vehicles, having a reliable and accurate multimeter is essential. Fluke, a renowned brand in the field of electronic testing and measurement, offers a range of multimeters specifically designed for automotive use.
Using a fluke multimeter is the simplest way to satisfy your automotive diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting. So, let’s dive in and discover the best fluke multimeters for automotive to meet your troubleshooting requirements.
In this post, we’ll explore the best fluke multimeters for automotive use and will compare their features, specifications, and pros and cons of each model in detail. We’ll also discuss the key factors to consider when choosing the right Fluke multimeter for your needs.
Table of Contents
Choosing the best fluke multimeter for automotive use
After testing more than 20 popular fluke multimeters, we’ve shortlisted 10 devices based on key factors like price, ease of use, and product quality.
The best fluke multimeters for automotive that field professionals recommend are the Fluke 88-V and the Fluke 179 Electronics Multimeter. They are the best because of their high quality, ease of use, and reliability in the long run. I found that Thousands of people have used them, and they are satisfied with the results.
Display
This is one feature that you want to consider when buying a multimeter because it is very important to be able to see what the unit is reading at all times. It should have a large but easy-to-read display to help you avoid confusion on the measurement ranges and other settings.
Memory
Another great feature that you want to look at is the memory that your chosen model has in order for it to save any readings and write them back into memory as needed. This means that if something changes, then it can be analyzed with ease.
Price Range
Last but not least, you want to look at the price range for the model that you’re looking at. It’s important to make sure that the model is within your budget if you’re going to be using it on a regular basis. If it doesn’t fit your budget then try and shop around with others until you find a suitable model.
Warranty
The last thing that you need to consider when buying a multimeter is its warranty period. You may want to check out the warranty period and whether or not there are any time limits on it or any other limitations on how long you will be able to use the unit before needing to pay for repairs or replacements.
Best fluke multimeter for automotive [Overall Best]
1. Fluke 88-V Automotive Multimeter
Fluke 88-V unit is one of the most popular models that Fluke makes and for good reason. It has a very durable stainless-steel case, while including a lock-out feature to protect the unit from accidental adjustments. This is great for anyone who may not have an immediate understanding of how to test circuits in their vehicle.
This unit is very similar to the previous one, except that it comes with a lithium battery. The advantage of this unit is that it has a slightly higher capacity for measuring voltage and current, allowing you to work with electrical systems in your vehicle more accurately than ever before.
The potential downside of the Fluke 88-V is its higher price tag compared to the mid-range Multimeter options. Additionally, it is a larger and heavier multimeter compared to some other models. Despite these downsides, Fluke 88-V respected automotive multimeter that is known for its accuracy, durability, and reliability.
Pros
- Pulse width, duty cycle, Min/Max/Avg recording
- 10 meg ohm input impedance won’t damage computer circuits
- Large display and bright backlight for increased visibility.
Cons
- No true RMS sensing.
- Comparatively a bit expensive.
best fluke multimeter for automotive work
2. Fluke 179 Electronics Multimeter
Fluke 179 is another one of my favorite models that I have used for some time. This unit has a nicely finished case with a lock-out feature to keep you from accidentally changing any settings. This model has an impressive voltage measuring range of up to 600V, making it the perfect choice for any automotive use.
Like the previous unit on this list, it also comes with a lithium battery, which can be used as an emergency charge if needed. It has all of the high-end features that you would expect from Fluke including temperature-compensated circuitry, accurate and precise measurements, and more.
When I used I noticed a few potential downsides that need to consider before making any purchasing decisions. I find that the standard warranty for the Fluke 179 is relatively short. The warranty duration may be a concern for some users seeking longer warranty coverage for their devices.
Pros
- Wide 1000 V measurement range
- True-RMS for precise measurement of non-linear signals
- Capacitance, resistance, continuity, and frequency
- Built-in thermometer (179)
- Large, easy-to-read display
Cons
- Less number of features.
best fluke multimeter for diesel mechanic
3. Fluke 87V Automotive Multimeter:
If you’re looking for a little bit less current capacity, but want to have the same kind of precision then this unit may be the right choice for you. It also has some great safety features like a lock-out indicator to keep you from accidentally adjusting any settings, as well as a tampered test lead to prevent anyone else from reading any circuits in your vehicle without permission.
This unit is durable and made with stainless steel, and its display screen is easy to read and understand. However, like any product, it has its pros and cons. This device is expensive and has a higher price tag compared to the mid-range multimeter. Despite the potential downsides, Considering its high accuracy, reliability, and robustness, The Fluke 87V is the right choice for you.
Key Features:
Pros
- Identify complex signal problems fast
- Supports accurate measurements on VFDs using a low-pass filter
- Captures intermittents as fast as 250 µS with Peak Capture.
Cons
- Expensive
best fluke multimeter for the money
4. FLUKE 17B+ Digital Multimeter:
I have a few of these in my shop, and also they love them. They have all the same great features as their older counterparts and come with an impressive multimeter range with up to 600V of voltage measurement.
The batteries also last a long time before needing to be charged, so if you will be using this unit throughout the day, then you shouldn’t run into any issues when it comes time to charge the battery. I really like these units because they have an auto temperature compensation feature that enables these models to accurately measure temperature without any damage to your overall performance.
The downside of the FLUKE 17B+ Digital Multimeter is its less advanced features and measurement capabilities compared to higher-end multimeters. If you are seeking specialized or advanced functions consider another different model. It is still a popular choice for quality and reliability measurements.
Pros
- 600 V Cat III safety rating
- 50% bigger display with bright white backlight
- Over-voltage indicator
- Frequency and temperature measurement
- Voltage, resistance, continuity, capacitance
Cons
- No true RMS sensing.
best fluke handheld multimeter
5. Fluke 107 AC/DC Palm-sized Multimeter:
These small units are perfect if you don’t want to carry around a huge multimeter unit throughout the day. They are not voltage-sensitive, but they do have a very impressive current capacity that comes in at up to 300mA.
This is great for those that are working on electrical systems in their vehicle, or even electrical components that you may want to fit into your own vehicle at home. Either way, this unit is great for temporary use and will not only perform well but also look good on your desk or in the workshop.
The downside of the Fluke 107 it doesn’t have a manual ranging feature. Additionally, Fluke 107 does not have a backlit display. Despite these downsides, Fluke 107 is still a top choice for users who require a simple and compact multimeter in an affordable range.
Pros
- Current and voltage measurements
- Measures resistance and continuity to check for broken wires
- Data hold and backlit display to keep you working safely and fast.
Cons
- Has no in-built magnet.
Buying guide: Best fluke multimeters for automotive
You can even include temperature measurement capacity with this unit, although that feature should be more accurate. The indicator lights are bright and clear, regardless of your chosen mode. It is also suitable for use in the shop as a test instrument for all sorts of voltage and current sources, especially if you want to avoid dealing with a lot of reading and writing in your inspection log. So read on to find out what I think about the most popular multimeter.
This is because there are a lot of cheap models out there that give false readings. In addition, they often have a hard time telling you the battery’s voltage output. One great multi-meter for automotive use model has been on the market for quite some time. Although it’s not widely used, it can get the job done when measuring current, voltage, and resistance up to 600V. It also has a cool backlight feature and resistance to water and oil splashes.
Finding the right product helps if you know what factors are essential to consider when choosing a multimeter intended as an automotive tester. Nowadays, accuracy is one of the most important considerations.
Features to Look for in the Best Fluke Multimeters for Automotive Use
There are a number of amazing features that come with all of these models. Let’s look at a couple of things you would want to consider when buying one of these. There may be more than one model that meets your needs, so although this is a list of the top 5 multimeters, I will say that there may be another product out there that you like better.
One thing to consider is the size of the unit itself. This can be very important because, in an automotive setting, space is at a premium. While some models are small enough to fit on your thumb, it may not be appropriate for all situations.
Accuracy and Precision:
This is one of the most important considerations. It’s sad to say that many of these units are not very accurate and precise when it comes to reading current, voltage, and resistance. In my time with them, Fluke was one of the only models that had true precision, without any issues at all. The numbers came out exactly like you would expect for these measurements.
Voltage and Current Range:
As I mentioned before, one of my favorite features of this particular model has to do with the amount of current and voltage that it can measure. This can be a real asset when checking electrical vehicles, especially air conditioning units. The voltage range on this model is 10-600V, while its current capacity is up to 600mA. This allows you to use this multimeter as an automotive tester for almost any vehicle that you come across in your shop or garage.
Durability and Safety:
These can also be great, especially if you’re checking your own vehicles. One of the most important safety features is that all of these units have tamper-proof test leads. Also, they all have lock-out indicators to prevent accidental adjustment. This prevents anybody from accidentally damaging the owner’s manual by accident when reading a circuit in the vehicle.
Power:
The amount of power that you would need in this situation may vary by vehicle model or type of usage, so I can’t really answer for all situations but in general, a good automotive multi-meter should have enough power to be able to handle any current electrical loads within your vehicle.
Versatility:
If you want to be able to test a wide range of electrical systems in your vehicle, then you want to make sure that your multimeter has a broad voltage and current range that will fit most of your needs. The Fluke brand is very popular in this category, and these models are one of the most versatile that I’ve found.
Durability:
Something that you want to consider when buying a multimeter is durability. This model may have all the features and capabilities that you need, but if it is not durable enough for the job at hand then it will be of no use when the time comes for you to use it. You should look for stainless steel or aluminum cases, and touch screens that are easy to read and understand.
Ease of Use:
The most important thing to look at when buying a multimeter is ease of use. If you are not going to get any real use out of the product then it’s not a good investment at all. Make sure that it includes features like auto shut off and calibration as well as voltage and current measurement to ensure that your chosen model will be great for the job at hand.
Price and Voltage Range:
The last thing that you want to look at is the price and voltage range. Usually, the higher the voltage range that you get for a multimeter, the more expensive it will be. This is because it requires more sophisticated circuitry to ensure accurate and precise measurements. Therefore, if you are working on automotive systems in your vehicle then you want to make sure your chosen model has a high enough voltage range so that you can accurately read electrical components and circuitry within your vehicle.
Auto-ranging Function:
Depending on the type of circuit that you are working with a multimeter can be a great help in isolating and debugging many different types of problems. This could be because it includes an auto-ranging feature. This is something that you definitely want to look at as it provides you with more accurate readings on your chosen model. When this feature is not included in the unit then you will have to manually adjust the exact measurement range yourself.
These are just some of the most popular models available from Fluke, so I hope this has given you some insight into what they are like, and what they offer for automotive use. Now it’s up to you to go out there and start doing some research on your own.
Best fluke multimeters for automotive Comparison Table
Here’s a comparison table of some popular best fluke multimeters for automotive commonly used in automotive applications:
| Model | Fluke 115 | Fluke 87V | Fluke 179 | Fluke 233 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display | Digital LCD | Digital LCD | Digital LCD | Digital LCD |
| True RMS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| AC/DC Voltage | 600V | 1000V | 1000V | 1000V |
| AC/DC Current | 10A | 10A | 10A | 10A |
| Resistance | 40MΩ | 50MΩ | 50MΩ | 50MΩ |
| Backlit Display | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Safety Rating | CAT III 600V | CAT III 1000V | CAT III 1000V | CAT III 1000V |
Understanding the Automotive Multimeter Requirements
Anyone who has worked with electrical systems has undoubtedly encountered a time when a circuit isn’t working, and you have to figure out why. These problems can range from headlights that won’t come on, tail lights that are not working correctly, or even a motor with an electrical short.
Any of these issues should be examined with a multimeter. A multimeter is an essential tool when it comes to checking electrical systems, but it’s also important to put some thought into what you’re going to get.
If you know what you’re looking for when it comes to an automotive tester, then you’ll be able to find the right product for your needs. For instance, if you want to measure current, voltage, or resistance in a system or circuit, then a good multi-meter will have all of these features. In addition, most models will include a temperature probe so that you can measure ambient temperatures in different areas.
Most of these tools are also relatively lightweight and easy to use for different technicians. In addition, some units will come with their own carrying cases so that you can transport the product without it getting damaged. It also features a low battery indicator that keeps you from making any mistakes when it comes to using your meter in low battery conditions. Let’s take a look at some considerations for using these units in automotive settings.
What is a Multimeter?
A multimeter is a tool that measures electrical voltage as well as current. Used widely in science labs, an automotive tester will have the ability to measure resistance and continuity. Many of these tools are also equipped with a temperature probe that can measure ambient temperature, which is helpful for certain measurements. If you are looking for a multi-meter, you will want to consider the quality of the readouts and how they display information.
The Best Fluke Multimeter for Diesel Mechanic should have an easy-to-read display that includes both voltages as well as current readings. Most of these models also have LED lights that give you an accurate understanding of your measurements, even if they are in dark environments. In addition, it is also important to consider how much weight each model has before deciding on which one to purchase. Some multi-meters won’t be able to shed any pounds from their total weight, while others will be relatively lightweight.
Overview of Fluke Multimeters
Fluke makes some of the best tools for the automotive market. They are well known for their self-contained testing systems like fuel injection testers, and they also make some great multimeters. Their models have a reputation for being accurate, and based on my professional experience with them, I would say that they have proven true in that regard.
Most of the other multi-meters are a little bit on the inaccurate side when used in an automotive setting, but Fluke isn’t one of them. They also have some great features like lock-out features to prevent accidental adjustment, as well as auto-power-off indicators to help conserve battery power. This is especially helpful if you are making a lot of measurements, and you don’t want to run the battery down before you finish.
Fluke’s multi-meters are also rated to ETL standards, which means that they are some of the most accurate around. If accuracy is important to you, then I would highly suggest checking out their line of products if it fits your needs. Let’s take a look at their top offerings below, along with what I like about them and what areas they might need improvement in.
How to Use a Multimeter for Beginners
Conclusion: Best fluke multimeters for automotive
There are plenty of different multimeters out there on the market today, but I think there are plenty of good options when it comes to Fluke models. They are well known for quality, design, and reliability, and their range of multimeters is pretty impressive.
If you’re searching for the best fluke multimeters for automotive that can be bought within your budget using the criteria that I’ve listed above then I would definitely have a look at these models. You may find that they are what you are looking for if you’ve found this article helpful.
FAQs: Best fluke multimeters for automotive
Q #1) What is a multimeter?
A multimeter is a device used to measure several different electrical parameters. Usually, this model will include features like the ability to measure voltage, current, and resistance. They are great for helping you pinpoint problems with electronic circuits in your vehicle.
Q #2) Is a multimeter good for working on vehicles?
Yes, if you’re looking for the best way to diagnose electrical problems within your vehicle then it’s a good idea to use a multimeter as they provide accurate measurements and can help you pinpoint problems without having any issues down the line when using your vehicle.
Q #3) What types of multimeters are there?
There are several different types of multimeters available. Each one will vary in its capabilities based on how you plan to use them and how much money you want to spend. Some handheld models are great for carrying around with you and using them on the go. Some larger models have models that have more features and capabilities for people who want to use their multimeter for more than a hobbyist or occasional user.
Q #4) What is the best multimeter?
The best fluke multimeters for automotive is the one that meets your needs and requirements. You need to consider your budget, as well as what type of system you plan on working on, in order to determine which model is best for you. Look at which features it offers, as well as its durability and quality before making any decisions so that you can get something that will be of exceptional value.
Source
Fluke Corporation (www.fluke.com)
Keysight Technologies (www.keysight.com)
All About Circuits (www.allaboutcircuits.com)
EEVblog (www.eevblog.com)
SparkFun Electronics (www.sparkfun.com)
Electrical Technology (www.electricaltechnology.org)
Electronics Hub (www.electronicshub.org)
Circuit Basics (www.circuitbasics.com)
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