If you require a quick answer, the best automotive multimeter is the AstroAI TRMS 6000, which features an extra large digital display and a selection of tests for diagnosing electrical issues. However, if you require a budget multimeter for working on cars, the ULTRICS UT0021YB is a great alternative that’s backed by a 12 month warranty.
To rate the multimeters within this article, we based our recommendations upon our experience of using them with cars, plenty of research and a number of factors. Some of the factors that we took into consideration included the functionality, display, supplied accessories, ease of operation, warranty and value for money.
Table of Contents
Automotive Multimeter Comparison
| Automotive Multimeter | Ranging | Thermocouple |
|---|---|---|
| AstroAI TRMS 6000 | Auto | Yes |
| Draper 41818 | Manual | Yes |
| KAIWEETS HT118A | Auto | Yes |
| ULTRICS UT0021YB | Manual | No |
| Neoteck 2000 | Auto | Yes |
| Sealey MM20HV | Manual | Yes |
Below is a list of the best multimeters that are ideal for diagnosing electrical issues with your car.
The Best Multimeter
1. AstroAI TRMS 6000
By far one of the most popular and highly rated multimeters available in the UK is the AstroAI TRMS 6000. It’s a professional grade digital multimeter that’s perfect for working with cars and includes a wide range of tests for voltage, current, resistance, continuity and so much more.
Other features of the AstroAI TRMS 6000 include:
- Large LCD display
- Easy to use and read
- Multiple advanced functions
- Auto-ranging functionality
- True RMS for both AC current and voltage
- Hanging magnet and kickstand
Although more expensive than some of the alternatives, the AstroAI TRMS 6000 ticks all the boxes. It’s designed to safely and accurately measure readings and is also ideal for testing batteries, faulty wiring, alternators and much more.
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2. Draper DMM 41818
Draper are a brand that’s well-known for their high quality tools and their automotive multimeter is a great example of that reputation. It comes as a complete kit that include test leads, temperature probes and the multimeter itself.
Other features of the Draper 41818 include:
- Manual ranging functionality
- Easy to read LCD backlit display
- Automatic power off
- Continuity buzzer and data hold
- Supplied with tests leads and temp probes
Overall, if you require a great mid-range multimeter that’s manufactured by a reputable brand, the Draper 41818 is perfect. The only minor drawback is that it doesn’t come with a case but this won’t be an issue for most people.
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3. KAIWEETS HT118A Digital
Another popular multimeter in the UK is the KAIWEETS HT118A, which is packed full of features such as auto ranging and so much more. It’s the brand’s flagship model and is worth paying the extra for because of its additional functions.
Other features of the KAIWEETS HT118A include:
- Robust outer case
- LED indication light
- CAT 600V safety rating
- Supplied with tests leads and thermocouple
- Detailed instructions
Overall, the KAIWEETS HT118A is an excellent all-round multimeter that’s high quality and relatively affordable. Although the brand offer cheaper alternatives, this particular model is the one to go for with all of its extra functionality.
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4. ULTRICS Automotive Multimeter
One of the cheapest multimeters that’s actually worth buying is the ULTRICS UT0021YB. It’s the brand’s recently upgraded model that features a backlit LCD display and a thick robust casing when compared to its predecessor.
Other features of the ULTRICS UT0021YB include:
- Practical fold out stand
- Large backlit LCD display
- Overload protection
- Low battery voltage indication
- Supplied with test leads
Although it’s a cheap multimeter, the ULTRICS UT0021YB is more than ideal for diagnosing electrical issues with your car. It’s also backed by an impressive 12 month warranty for complete peace of mind.
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5. Neoteck 2000 Digital Multimeter
The Neoteck is another affordable multimeter that comes packed with everything you need to test your car’s electrical components. When compared to similar priced alternatives, it’s way ahead in terms of its build quality. Although the brand offer more expensive alternatives, this 2000 model is more than ideal for automotive use.
Other features of the Neoteck 2000 Multimeter include:
- Rated at 2,000 counts
- Large backlit display
- Protective orange shell case
- Flip out stand to keep the screen upright
- CE rated for use with automotive or household applications
- Supplied with test leads and banana plugs
Overall, the Neoteck Multimeter offers great value for the money and is perfect for testing various electronic faults with your car. The only main drawback is that it doesn’t come with a case or temperature probes but for the money, you cannot go wrong with this automotive multimeter.
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6. Sealey MM20HV Digital Multimeter
Another automotive multimeter by the reputable Sealey brand is their MM20HV model. It’s been designed to be a heavy duty yet budget option that’s easy to use with its clear LCD display.
Other features of the Sealey MM20HV include:
- Rugged rubber casing
- Integral stand
- Full set of leads and probes
- Clear LCD display
- Date hold functionality
- Detailed instructions
Overall, the Sealey MM20HV is an affordable, compact and reliable multimeter that’s ideal for basic diagnostics. If you require a simple multimeter that’s developed by a reputable brand, you cannot go wrong with this model.
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How We Tested & Rated
Multimeters are a great way to diagnose issues that may have otherwise been undetected by a diagnostic tool. Considering that we own multiple classic cars, it’s a tool that has certainly helped us diagnose plenty of issues over the years. As well as our experience of using a number of multimeters, we also based our recommendations upon hours of research and multiple factors. Some of the factors that we took into consideration included the functionality, display, supplied accessories, ease of operation, warranty and value for money.
Conclusion
Although a car diagnostic tool may help locate certain electrical malfunctions, an automotive multimeter is able to go into much more detail. Whether the issue is regarding the car’s wiring harness, alternator, battery or other components, you can investigate the fault much further using the supplied multimeter probes. All of our recommendations above are relatively affordable and are ideal for working with cars as well as other applications.
