Craftsman Automotive Digital Multimeter

Jumping into the world of automotive diagnostics, I recently had the chance to put Craftsman's Automotive Digital Multimeter, model CMMT14171, through its paces. This multimeter promises a variety of automotive-specific measurements, including RPM, temperature, dwell, frequency, and duty cycle. For any automotive enthusiast or professional, these features are enticing, but how does it perform in real-world usage?

From the moment I unboxed the Craftsman multimeter, I was impressed by its ergonomic design. The device felt solid and well-built in my hand, and its weight of just 0.8 pounds made it easy to maneuver around tight engine compartments. The built-in stand and storage clips on the back were particularly convenient, as they kept the leads organized and the multimeter in an upright position for hands-free operation.

One of the standout features of this multimeter is its auto-ranging with True RMS functionality, which ensures accurate voltage and current measurements. This is especially useful for diagnosing electrical issues in vehicles, where precision is crucial. I tested the voltage measurement capability by checking the battery and alternator output in my car. The multimeter provided quick and reliable readings, which matched up well with my expectations based on previous experiences with higher-end tools.

The temperature probe was another feature that proved invaluable. By utilizing this probe, I was able to measure the temperature of various engine components, such as the radiator and exhaust manifold, which is essential for troubleshooting overheating issues. The readings were consistent and accurate, providing me with the confidence to make informed decisions about necessary repairs.

However, the multimeter is not without its drawbacks. The lack of a user manual in the package was a significant oversight by Craftsman. While the multimeter is relatively intuitive to use, a comprehensive manual would have been beneficial, especially for those who are not as experienced with such tools. Additionally, discovering that the multimeter requires two AAA batteries was a bit of a hassle. This information was not readily available on the packaging or specifications, and I had to remove the back cover to find out. Once I inserted the batteries, however, the multimeter powered up without any issues and has since been reliable.

The leads that come with the multimeter also left something to be desired. They were noticeably stiff, even in a climate-controlled environment, which made them somewhat cumbersome to work with. High-quality, flexible leads would significantly improve the user experience, especially for those who use the tool frequently.

One of the more disappointing aspects was the performance of the tachometer and dwell functions. When I tried to measure the RPM on a vehicle with a points-style ignition system, the multimeter consistently read zero. This was also the case when attempting to measure dwell time. As these are key features for an automotive multimeter, their unreliability in these tests was a letdown.

On a more positive note, the multimeter performed exceptionally well in other areas. The frequency and duty cycle measurements were accurate and easy to obtain. These functions are particularly useful for diagnosing issues with sensors and electronic control units (ECUs), which are becoming increasingly common in modern vehicles.

The Craftsman multimeter's overall durability is another strong point. It withstood the rigors of daily use in a busy workshop environment without any signs of wear or damage. The quality craftsmanship and materials used in its construction are evident, and I have confidence that it will continue to perform well over time.

In terms of display clarity, the multimeter excels. The readings are clearly visible, even in bright sunlight, and the backlight feature ensures visibility in low-light conditions. This is crucial when working in dimly lit garages or under the hood of a car.

Would I recommend the Craftsman Automotive Digital Multimeter? The answer is a qualified yes. For those who need a reliable, durable, and accurate multimeter for basic automotive diagnostics, this tool is a solid choice. Its automotive-specific features, such as temperature measurement and frequency/duty cycle capabilities, make it a versatile addition to any toolkit.

However, if you rely heavily on the tachometer and dwell functions, you may want to consider other options, as these features did not perform as expected in my tests. Also, be prepared to source high-quality replacement leads and keep a stock of AAA batteries on hand.

In summary, the Craftsman Automotive Digital Multimeter offers excellent value for its price, with a few caveats. Its strengths in voltage and temperature measurements, combined with its durability and ease of use, make it a worthwhile investment for many users. Just be aware of its limitations and be prepared to work around them for the best experience.