To test an alternator with a multimeter is a simple task and should be performed during maintenance of your vehicle. You will need a multimeter that can read DC voltage. With your vehicle running, set the multimeter on DC 20 volt range.
Take the meter leads and touch the black lead to the negative post on your vehicles battery and touch the red meter lead to the positive post on the battery. The alternator should be putting about 13.8 to 14.4 volts into the battery for optimum performance. If you get a reading of 15 volts or higher at any time that is too much and repairs are needed. Make this check first with nothing turned on in your vehicle and then check it again with everything turned on.
With all lights and A/C on plus any other accessories you may have, check the meter reading again and the alternator should adjust for the added load and maintain the needed voltage to run the extra load while continuing to keep the battery at full charge.
Any type of successful troubleshooting depends on the quality of your testing equipment. There are many different styles, brands and designs of multimeters. Personally, I like Fluke Multimeters. Fluke makes good quality equipment that is dependable and will last for a long time.
See our complete line of Fluke Multimeters.
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