What are some things I should look for when purchasing a multi-meter? My old one did the job for a while but it will not measure resistance now and I was wondering if someone can recommend one that will fit automotive needs better-and is cheap (if this is an option). Thanks for the input

I got a nice digital meter from Radio Shack on sale last year.
Catalog # 22-174B

Things I like about this meter;
- Fused, overload protected
- Includes a thermocouple - How cold is that AC?
- Audible continuity testing
- 10 amp. current measurements

On the other hand;
I do not really care for auto-ranging, but I'm sure I'll get used to it.
It uses 6 AA batteries.
--
96 855R, 95 855,854, 90 744 Ti - 340,000 Volvo miles put on 7 bricks

Get one that won't blow a fuse (or worse ) if you accidently reverse polarity on the leads. I have one of radio shacks nicer ones that I've had over 10 years and it works great.Ifyou can afford a fluke, grab one.
--
-------Robert, '93 940t, '90 240 wagon, '84 240 diesel (she's sick) , '80 245 diesel

First there are two primary multi meters used for basic auto repair. The first is the old "Analog" or dial type. These work great to measure just about anything you can think of on a car from resistance to voltage but on newer cars with electronics like fuel injection and the computers that control them you need to use a "Digital" one because it will measure a lot closer and give you exact readings when checking items like the O2 sensor on a fuel injected car. They usualy have a "Good range" that you should verify before replacing them and an analog one won't do it. I bought a small one from Radio Shack for around $ 24.00 and it works great but I still like to use the old analog one for just checking stuff like voltage and continuity of wires and such.
Check your local auto parts and then check Radio Shack and see which way you want to go and good luck.. hope you don't have to use it much as that means you are trouble free !
Dennis

As long as you are just going to use the meter on a car, just about any good/decent quality modern Digital Multi Meter will fill the bill for you. Try to get one that has the auto ranging feature, makes it nice and easy. I have two Flukes that I use to make money, and one older Craftsman/Sunn basic DMM (that was about $50) that stays in the garage toolbox.
The Craftsman does just fine for basic voltage and resistance measurements.