If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile circuit tester for automotive diagnostics, the Autel PowerScan PS100 is worth a close look. As a mechanic who’s used similar tools for years, I’ve put the Autel PS100 through its paces to see how it holds up in real-world situations.
What‘s in the Box?
The Autel PS100 comes ready to use with a 20-foot cable, a cigarette lighter adapter, and a 20-foot extension – giving you up to 40 feet of reach. That’s more than enough for most jobs, whether you’re under the hood or inside the cabin.
Features & Hands-On Test
This tool does it all: checking power, ground, continuity, and resistance. It also lets you apply power and ground directly to components – a huge help when testing things like horns, relays, or lights.
- Battery Service & Voltage Testing
Hook it up to the battery (red to positive, black to negative), and it powers on automatically. The voltmeter function is straightforward and reliable – perfect for checking alternator output or verifying circuit voltage.
- Power & Ground Application
With the rocker switch, you can send power or ground to a component. I used this to test a non-working horn by applying power directly at the relay – it quickly confirmed the horn itself was functional.
- Continuity & Resistance
The tone alert for continuity is a nice touch, especially when tracing shorts. However, the resistance mode struggled with low-resistance components. For example, it read 66 ohms on a relay where my digital multimeter showed 74.6 ohms. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting for precision work.
Build & Usability
The Autel PS100 Circuit Tester is built with serviceability in mind. The switch is replaceable – a big plus for pros who use these tools daily. The built-in lights are another win, especially when working under dashes or in dimly lit areas.
That said, there are a few quirks:
- The ground strap could use a sleeve to keep it tidy.
- The screen toggle button is easy to hit accidentally -a more recessed design would help.
Limitations to Keep in Mind
While the Autel PS100 is a solid circuit tester, it’s not a substitute for a dedicated digital multimeter when it comes to low-resistance accuracy. Also, applying power and ground carelessly can lead to mishaps – this tool demands a bit of know-how.
Is Autel PS100 Tester Worth It?
Overall, the Autel PS100 is a practical and affordable electrical tool for daily use. It may not replace every tool in your box, but for quick checks, power application, and basic diagnostics, it delivers excellent value – especially at its current price point.
Whether you’re into Autel Battery Service, need a dependable Circuit Tester, or want a compact Battery Tester for on-the-go jobs, the Autel PS100 is a trustworthy companion in the shop or on the road.
Contact Info:
Email: sales@AutelShop.de
Wechat: +86-13429866263
Whatsapp: +86-13429866263