How to test a solenoid with a multimeter
A solenoid is a common electrical component, usually made of metal, to create an electromagnetic field. This guide shows you how to test it with a multimeter.
In this guide, we will walk you through the process of testing a solenoid with a multimeter. You will need a multimeter, needle nose pliers and a screwdriver.
Testing a solenoid is not like testing any other electrical component. The design of the solenoid is such that standard resistance or continuity testing methods cannot be used. Luckily, you can use an ohmmeter to test other parts of the system to find out which one has failed.
What is a solenoid?
A solenoid is an electrical device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. It consists of a coil wound around an iron core that acts like a plunger or piston. When electricity passes through the coil, it creates an electromagnetic field that causes the piston to move in and out, attracting whatever it is attached to. (1)
Step 1: Set the multimeter to the correct function
- First, set the multimeter to the ohm setting. Om tuning is represented by the Greek symbol Omega. (2)
- When testing the solenoid with a multimeter, you should touch the solenoid terminals with the black and red multimeter probes.
- The black wire must be connected to the negative terminal. On the contrary, the red wire should be connected to the positive terminal.
Step 2: Probe Placement
- Set the multimeter to "Ohm". The Ohm parameter allows you to check continuity. Place the multimeter probes on the solenoid terminals, usually located at the top of the solenoid housing.
- Touch one probe to the terminal marked "S" on the solenoid housing. Touch another probe to any other terminal.
- Check the reading on the multimeter display screen for signs of continuity or low resistance in the 0 to 1 ohm range. If you get this reading, it means there is no problem with the solenoid.
Step 3: Check your multimeter
If your solenoid is working properly, the voltage reading on the multimeter should be between 12 and 24 volts. If it doesn't, it could be a wiring problem or a short in the circuit. Make sure it's getting enough power by connecting a load, such as an LED, to the solenoid's terminals and attaching a multimeter to them. If you are drawing less than 12 volts, you have a wiring problem that you will have to fix by checking the voltage coming out of the circuit board.
You can also use a multimeter to check if the solenoid is properly connected. With the solenoid positioned as indicated, pull the trigger and slowly apply voltage to the terminals. The meter should read 12 volts and then slowly drop as current flows from the solenoid. If it doesn't, make adjustments and try again until it does.
Reads fine but doesn't work
Checking for normal reading but not operation means that the resistance is OK and the relay is energized with a multimeter. This way we can find out if it is an electronic or mechanical failure. The process is carried out in 3 stages:
Step 1: Check the resistance of the solenoid with a multimeter.
Turn on the multimeter and set it to read in ohms. Place the positive probe on one terminal and the negative probe on the other terminal. The reading should be close to zero, indicating a good connection between the two terminals. If there is a reading, there is a problem with the solenoid.
Step 2. Turn on the solenoid with a multimeter and check its operation.
To energize the solenoid, use a multimeter in AC voltage mode to make sure it is receiving power when it should be operating. Then use an ammeter (electric current meter) to measure how much current is going through it. These readings can tell you if you have enough power or if you have a bad solenoid.
Step 3: Check Solenoid Operation with a Relay
If the solenoid shows normal readings, but does not shift the vehicle, it is necessary to check the operation of the solenoid using a relay. Disconnect the electrical connector from the transmission and connect a jumper between tracks 1 and 2-3. If the solenoid moves, then the problem is most likely a faulty relay or wiring.
Check the resistance of the solenoid in all its circuits. Connect one test lead to one wire of the solenoid and press the other wire to the other wire for about five seconds. Check for continuity by changing wires until you reach an open circuit. Repeat this process for each of the three wires in the two circuits.
Take a look at some of our articles below.
- Setting up a multimeter for a car battery
- How to find a short circuit with a multimeter
- How to check the voltage of 240 V with a multimeter?
Recommendations
(1) electromagnetic field – https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/
opinions_layman/ru/electromagnetic fields/l-2/1-electromagnetic fields.htm
(2) Greek symbol Omega - https://medium.com/illumination/omega-greek-letter-and-symbol-of-meaning-f836fc3c6246
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