AUTOOL BT160 · 6–24V Powered Circuit Probe
Probe and Activate Compatible DC Circuits
Trace common faults from the battery to distant test points with this automotive electrical circuit tester for compatible 6–24V DC vehicle circuits. BT160 identifies positive, negative, and open states, checks continuity and ground paths, and can apply controlled power or ground to selected components. Its long integrated lead supports front-to-rear harness work on larger vehicles.
- 6–24 V DC Circuits
- Polarity / Continuity / Ground Checks
- Selected Component Activation
- Manual Short-Circuit Tracing
- 4 m Test Lead
Key Features
Power and Ground Checks with a Circuit Test Probe
Polarity Test
Probe an unknown contact to identify circuit polarity. The red LED indicates positive voltage, and the green LED indicates negative voltage.
Continuity And Open Circuit Test
Check whether a tested wire, fuse, relay, switch, or circuit path is continuous or open by using the auxiliary ground lead and probe tip.
Diode Test Mode
Quickly test the working status of a diode assembly and determine whether the circuit is open or continuous.
Grounding Test
Check whether the negative grounding of a component is good. Green LED with buzzer feedback indicates good grounding under the correct test setup.
Short Circuit Following
After removing the blown fuse, probe successive harness sections to narrow which side still shows the short or overload condition.
Current Overload Protection
When overload or excessive current is detected, BT160 automatically opens circuit protection and beeps to reduce unnecessary losses.
6–24V DC Testing
Use BT160 only with 6-24V DC automotive electrical systems, including common 12V cars and 24V heavy trucks.
4m Test Lead
The 4m lead extends working reach from the battery, while the 220 × 30 × 30mm probe body fits in one hand.
Component Activation
Supports component testing both outside the vehicle and in the vehicle electrical system. Follow the specified wiring and activation procedure for the component under test. Apply output only in the documented polarity/current mode; do not inject power or ground into an ECU, SRS, sensor or data line without a specific authorized procedure.
3 Years Warranty Support
Main unit: 3-year warranty. Standard accessories: 1-year warranty. Warranty Policy.
Safe Use
Limit Powered Tests to Approved Circuits
6-24V DC Only
Use BT160 only with 6-24V DC automotive electrical systems, including common 12V cars and 24V heavy trucks.
Do Not Use On AC Power
BT160 is not designed for 110V / 220V AC household current or any system above 24V DC.
Spark Warning
Sparks may occur at the probe tip during use. Do not operate in areas with combustible gas, dust, or explosive conditions.
Inspect Before Use
Check the case, probe tip, clips, and leads before use. Do not use the tester if cracks, exposed wires, or visible damage are found.
Sharp Probe Tip
The probe is sharp. Use and store it carefully, and keep the tool away from children.
Do Not Open The Tool
Do not disassemble BT160. Opening the tool voids the warranty, and repairs should be handled by authorized service support.
Interpret the Result in Context
Verify the circuit, mode, polarity and permitted load before applying power or ground. Protection in the tester does not prove that an ECU, sensor, SRS circuit or other sensitive module can accept an active output.
Stop on an Overload Alert
During component activation, an overload can disconnect output and trigger an LED change with a beeping alarm. Stop the test, then check the circuit, component condition, and rated current before continuing.
Specifications
BT160 Specifications
| Measurement Ranges | |
|---|---|
| Current Measuring Range | 0~10A |
| Core Tests & Protection | |
| DC Voltage Detection Mode | Yes |
| Grounding Test | Yes |
| Polarity Test | Yes |
| Current Overload Protection | Yes |
| Continuity Test | Yes |
| Diode Test Mode | Yes |
| Hardware, Power, Interface & Updates | |
| Operation Voltage | 6~24V |
| Power Cable Length | 4m |
Manual & Support
Find the Manual and Connection Guidance
AUTOOL BT160 User Manual
Open the PDF manual for AUTOOL BT160 voltage, polarity, continuity, diode and grounding checks, short-circuit tracing, component activation, overload protection and troubleshooting support.
Package Contents
See What Comes in the Box
- Main UnitAUTOOL BT160 automotive electrical system tester
- Power CableIntegrated 4m / 13ft lead with red and black battery clips
- Auxiliary GroundAuxiliary ground clamp
- DocumentationBT160 user manual
- Retail BoxAUTOOL BT160 retail package
- Final CheckAccessories follow the listed package configuration.
Buyer Questions
Circuit Connection and Measurement Questions
Can BT160 Be Used On 12V Cars And 24V Trucks?
Yes. BT160 is designed for 6-24V DC systems, so it is suitable for common 12V car electrical checks and 24V heavy truck electrical checks when used within the specified range.
Can BT160 Be Used On 110V Or 220V AC Circuits?
No. BT160 is not designed for 110V / 220V AC household current or any over-24V DC system. Use it only on 6-24V DC automotive electrical systems.
Does BT160 Measure Exact Voltage Values?
BT160 does not have a screen and is not the right choice for reading exact voltage values. It is intended for quick DC circuit presence, polarity, continuity, diode, grounding, and overload checks. Choose BT210, BT250, BT260, or BT280 if you need numerical voltage display or more measurement functions.
What Do The Red And Green LEDs Mean?
Red LED indicates positive voltage supplied or detected. Green LED indicates negative voltage supplied or detected. In continuity testing, green LED feedback indicates continuity is present.
How Does The Power Switch Work?
The power switch can be used to output voltage during suitable tests.
- Press the “-” side to output positive voltage and press the “=” side to output negative voltage.
- Follow the manual and stop if the LED changes color with buzzer feedback during component testing.
- Use only the documented polarity/current mode and never inject power or ground into an ECU, SRS, sensor or data line without a specific procedure.
What Should I Do If Overload Protection Is Triggered?
If BT160 beeps or the LED changes unexpectedly during a powered test, stop testing immediately. Check whether the tested component is defective, whether the circuit is shorted, or whether the rated current of the component is higher than the tester can support.
What Is Included In The BT160 Package?
Package contents: BT160 main unit, integrated lead with red and black battery clips, auxiliary ground clamp, user manual, and retail box.
Which AUTOOL Circuit Tester Should I Choose?
- Choose BT160 if you need a compact no-screen 6-24V DC tester for polarity, open circuit, diode, grounding, and overload protection checks.
- Choose BT210 for a simple digital display, temperature test, and LED light.
- Choose BT250 or BT260 for TFT screen, AC / DC voltage, resistance, and multi-language support.
- Choose BT280 for smart test, multimeter, oscilloscope, relay, injector, component activation, online update, and higher-end diagnostic functions.
How Long Is The Warranty?
Main unit: 3-year warranty. Standard accessories: 1-year warranty. Warranty Policy.
