While using a digital multimeter to diagnose electrical problems on customers’ equipment, I frequently hear the comment, “I’ve got one of those multimeter things, but I never learned how to use it.” ...

A multimeter and its test leads allow electrical workers to reach into an energized panel, touch live circuit components with the end of the test leads, and capture electrical readings like voltage, ...

Back in the early days of electricity, lab workers could measure electric current in a circuit using an ammeter (galvanometer) and voltage using a voltmeter. From there, they could calculate ...

Let's start with DC voltage, one of the simplest and most-used multimeter measurements. The DC voltage measurement is used to determine the difference in electrical potential between two points in a ...

When your car doesn’t start, often a low or dead battery is the culprit. Unfortunately, most vehicle owners do not check their battery until it fails. As preventative maintenance, the suggested best ...

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Electrical diagnostic work is one of the most challenging parts of automotive repair. It can be incredibly daunting for beginners or DIY ...

Not knowing how to troubleshoot electrical issues is a death sentence for any DIYer’s bank account. Your only other option is a wild goose chase by throwing money at your car until the problem’s fixed ...

I'm having problem with a starter motor on a riding mower, and need to check if the motor is getting juice and not working or if something else isn't working and no juice is getting to the starter.

Craig brought 15 years of automotive journalism experience to the Cars team. A lifelong resident of Michigan, he's as happy with a wrench or welding gun in hand as he is in front of the camera or ...

The alternator is responsible for charging the car battery and powering all the car's onboard network consumers. If it fails or is unstable, the battery will either not be charged or start discharging ...