how do i use this multimeter??

Question

hello all,
i am getting a battery light on the dash, and i want to use this multimeter i purchased from canadian tire.
how do i test my battery and alternator??
please be specific with your answer as electrical is not my field, but i am a bit inclined.
thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Set the multi-meter to read Voltage in DC (Direct Current) Mode. If it needs a range. Find the range that can read 12-14Volts. Some multi-meters are self adjusting.

Place the red lead on the positive terminal and black on the negative terminal. It should read around 12Volts. If it reads less than 10 your battery may be dying/dead.

Now start up the engine.
Place the red lead on the positive terminal and black on the negative terminal. It should read around 14Volts. If it doesn't it means your alternator is not charging the battery.

This only gives you a voltage test. You'll need a battery load tester to determine if the battery is having problems holding charge, but a volt meter will give you at least a preliminary reading.

Answer 2

Put in on volts and put the red on positive and black on negative, there should be instructions if you just purchased it.