How To Test Alternator With Multimeter. Set the meter to DC voltage using the 20 scale and read the display to ensure the battery is. Connect your meter leads on via battery terminals by looking for 138 to153 volts.

Testing Alternator with Multimeter With the engine on. Car batteries have a resting voltage somewhere between 1245 and 126 volts in most cases. Connect your meter leads on via battery terminals by looking for 138 to153 volts.
Richpin demonstrates how to test an alternator with a standard multimeter.
Different technology and a different era call for different testing. Any amount of AC voltage indicates a bad diode - youll need to replace the alternator. Open your hood and so you have clear access to the car battery. Your voltmeter should read 0 AC volts.
