Most mechanics agree that one of the most frustrating problems to diagnose is electrical gremlins that always seem to pop up at the worst time for car owners. Although today's modern cars, trucks, and SUVs are assembled with highly complex electrical systems, they still work under the basic principles that older vehicles used to power systems. Due to this fact, most ASE certified mechanics still use the basic probe electrical tester to diagnose most electrical issues found on modern and older vehicles.
What is a power probe electrical tester?
A power probe is a brand name for an electrical tester that was developed many years ago and designed for mechanics to measure the true RMS value of alternating current. Today, there are multiple manufacturers and tool companies that sell electrical current probes that are designed to check three primary electrical signals:
- Identifies a positive circuit
- Identifies a negative circuit
- Identifies an open circuit
One of the most common circuit failures on cars, trucks, or SUVs is a faulty ground or a blown fuse. The power probe electrical tester has an easy to use power test feature that can detect whether the circuit has a resistive or bad ground, or if it's a complete circuit. This allows the mechanic to trace and identify the problem circuit and eliminate good circuits which expedites the diagnostic process and discovers the true source of the electrical problem much easier.
What electrical problems can you diagnose with a power probe?
A power probe electrical tester is designed to connect to the vehicle's battery and often has a 20 foot or longer cable that allows a mechanic to use it from bumper to bumper. By connecting to the positive and negative terminals, mechanics don't have to spend additional time looking for good ground connections, which can lead to false continuity readings in standard electrical probes.
In general, there are five individual components that contribute to electrical issues:
- Diodes
- Switches
- Relays
- Fuses
- Wires
There is a green LED light that tells a mechanic that the circuit is open (meaning there is a problem that needs to be fixed) or that it has continuity (meaning the circuit is good). This device also has an auxiliary ground lead that allows mechanics to activate electrical switches and test them instantly. Most mechanics use a power probe to complete multiple electronic inspections including:
- Activating electrical systems that have positive and negative source voltage
- Testing sensor
- Tracing electrical signals and capturing glitches in the electrical system of a vehicle
- Electronic fuel injector testing
- Testing trailer lights, brakes and turn signals
- Complete electrical resistance testing
A power probe electrical tester is extremely portable, allowing mechanics on the road to simplify the process of diagnosing and repairing electrical issues when time is limited and their customers need to get their vehicles back on the road. If you’re already a certified mechanic, you enjoy working with customers on the road and you’re interested in working with YourMechanic, submit an online application to work for YourMechanic for an opportunity to become a mobile mechanic.
