Mailbag Episode: Multimeters, Electrical Diagnostics and Drivability Tricks [E180] - Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z

About this episode

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow dives into listener-submitted questions, covering:Multimeter recommendations (why he prefers insulation testers/meggers over basic DMMs).Electrical diagnostic strategies (schematics, scan tools, and stress-testing circuits).The "Flat Rate Test Drive" (a drivability diagnostic trick for load/PID analysis).Gaming picks (Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Days Gone Remaster).Scan tool advice for techs doing more drivability work.Timestamps:(00:00) – Intro (02:33) – Multimeter recommendations: Why Matt avoids basic DMMs and prefers:Fluke 1587 or Pico TA467 (insulation testers for EVs/future-proofing).Used Vantage/Vantage Pro (graphing + scope functions).Curien (Bluetooth-enabled multimeter).(11:44) – Electrical diagnostic process:Start with a wiring schematic.Use a scan tool to check module inputs/commands.Stress-test circuits (e.g., load with a headlight for power/ground checks).Leverage relays for centralized testing (control/output sides).(22:48) – Shoutout to trainer Richard Velko.(23:17) – "Flat Rate Test Drive" explained:Monitor PIDs (load, MAF, MAP, O2 sensors) during WOT pulls to isolate drivability issues (fuel vs. restriction).(34:42) – Gaming corner: Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Days Gone Remaster.(38:53) – Scan tool recommendations for drivability:HP Tuners (budget-friendly, fast data logging).Used Snap-on Solus Edge/Ultra (enhanced OEM data).Shop responsibility (tools should be shop-provided!).Quotes"I don’t buy just a pure multimeter anymore... Get an insulation tester. You’ll need it for EVs/hybrids." – Matt"The ‘Flat Rate Test Drive’ stresses the engine while watching PIDs to split the problem in half." – Matt"For drivability, HP Tuners is my top pick—great data logging without breaking the bank." – MattTools & Resources Mentioned:Multimeters: Fluke 1587, Pico TA467, Vantage Pro, Curien.Diagnostic Tactics: Wiring diagrams, scan tool bi-directionals, current ramping.Games: Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Days Gone Remaster.Scan Tools: HP Tuners, Snap-on Solus Edge, TopDon XTool.Final Thoughts:Matt’s takeaway? Invest in versatile tools (like megohmmeters) and lean on schematics/scan tools to avoid diagnostic rabbit holes.Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.Contact InformationEmail Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/The Aftermarket Radio NetworkRemarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open DiscussionDiagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.