Quote Originally Posted by cburns View Post
I don't want to sound ignorant but, what is a multimeter and how do I use it?
you are not sounding ignorant; most people don't know what or how to use a multimeter unless it pertains to their career.

A multimeter is an electrical diagnostic tool used by electricians and mechanics to measure Electrical Voltage (Volts; Alternating Current for Household and Industrial electricians, and Direct Current for Automotive Mechanics.), Electrical Resistance (Ohms), and Electrical Current (Amperes-or Amps). here is a well thought out and informative video on how to use a multimeter:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBbgiBU96mM

with most cars today being mostly electrical and electronic in nature (even Power Steering is being electrified); knowledge of multimeter use is more important than ever.