Autel automotive circuit tester PS100

When tracking down a blown fuse, a dead trailer light or a component that will not switch on, a basic test light may only answer part of the question. The Autel PS100 combines circuit checks with voltage, polarity, resistance and component testing, so it is aimed at diagnosing automotive electrical faults rather than just spotting live power. Its 40 ft cable is useful when the test point is some distance from the vehicle’s battery or your working position. If you prioritize a straightforward power check, a simpler tester may be enough, if you prefer several diagnostic functions in one tool, the PS100 covers more ground.

Getting the most from it

Choose the test mode to match the fault you are chasing. DC voltage mode displays readings at 0.1V resolution, while the red and green LEDs indicate positive and ground/negative polarity. Resistance mode checks continuity between the probe tip and auxiliary ground lead, AC voltage mode also displays maximum and minimum voltage, frequency and duty cycle for signal checks. The buzzer can be switched off for quieter, extended testing.

For a practical example, if a trailer light is not working, you can use the tester to check the circuit and polarity, then investigate the connection or ground rather than immediately replacing the lamp. The kit also offers relay testing, short-circuit detection and trailer-light connection testing. Its power and ground activation functions are intended to check components such as cooling fans, fuel pumps, wipers, motors and solenoids on 12V or 24V systems. Based on the product details provided, it also indicates poor or missing grounds with LEDs.

Why it’s worth it

The main appeal is range: this is more than a voltage probe, with circuit, continuity, polarity, resistance, ground-contact and component checks grouped in one device. That can suit a mechanic or a hands-on owner who regularly works through wiring faults and wants to test a component before replacing it. It may also help narrow down whether the issue lies with a supply, ground or connected part.

That breadth comes with a learning curve compared with a basic test light. You need to select the relevant mode and interpret the reading, having multiple functions does not make every diagnosis automatic. The listing also does not give further detail about the meter’s measurement ranges, so buyers who need specific limits for a particular diagnostic job should not assume them.

Key takeaways

• 12V/24V automotive circuit tester with a 40 ft cable.
• DC voltage, AC signal, resistance and continuity testing, plus polarity and ground checks.
• Can activate power or ground to test listed electrical components, and includes relay and trailer-light testing.
• It suits you if you work on vehicle wiring often and want more than a basic live-circuit check.
• It may not be for you if you only need an uncomplicated tester for occasional voltage checks.

When to choose it

Choose the PS100 if your jobs involve tracing wiring faults, checking grounds and testing automotive components, and you expect to use more than one of its diagnostic modes. For a single, occasional check, a basic test light or simpler voltage tester is a less involved approach. The 40 ft cable and 12V/24V coverage make this kit relevant to broader vehicle electrical work, but it is not a general-purpose repair tool, its value depends on whether you will use the extra circuit and component tests.