One such tool available is the Topdon BT100 battery tester, which I recently had the opportunity to test. The device allows you to instantly check a battery’s voltage charge, internal resistance and estimated remaining life. Battery status is directly indicated by the LED lights on the tool (marked GOOD, CHARGE, or BAD), and advice is provided on the display if the battery needs to be charged or replaced. To ensure safety for all levels of experience, reverse polarity protection and spark-free protection are featured.
Among the data you will receive about your battery on the 2-inch LCD display are: SOH (State of Health), SOC (State of Charge), Voltage, Current, and Rating.
The BT100 can also run a cranking test to analyze the starting motor function — including cranking voltage and cranking time. To do the charging test, vehicle must be brought up to 2,500 RPM. This test looks at different parts of the charging system, including generator, rectifier, rectifier diode, and more, and provides a charging volt value.
All tests done remain stored in the device, in case you need to compare results later.
In my experience using the BT100, I found the tool to be reliable and accurate for all three tests, and very easy to use. The price is also very reasonable, as it is available for $60 or less.
It’s quite versatile, and works on a wide variety of vehicle battery types, including: cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, RVs, ATVs, boats, yachts, mowers and even golf carts. While most of us won’t own a yacht, all the other compatible vehicles are something we may have in our possession, making this a highly useful tool.
It’s also light, at 9 ounces, and small and portable (5.3 x 3 x 1 inches). Multiple languages are also supported, including English, Russian, Spanish, French, Italian and German. Tests can be done with battery in vehicle, so there is no need to remove, and it can withstand a wide range of temperatures, helpful for cold-weather locations.
Also, if you are considering the purchase of a used car but want to check the battery first, bring the BT100 and run an instant test before committing to the purchase. You could potentially save yourself some headaches.
To learn more about the Topdon BT100, visit: https://www.amazon.com/Car-TOPDON-BT100-100-2000CCA-Automotive/dp/B08973RB5Y
