OT---Checking Automotive LED Electrical Circuits

I have a standard 12V DC "ice-pick style" autimotive test light that I use on my tractors and automobiles.
Is it safe to use this type testor on automotive LED circuits---tail/brake lights?
I need to locate the correct wires for a trailer lighting kit. My car requires a special kit that is powered by a separate 12V wire.

(quoted from post at 22:11:44 12/29/11) I have a standard 12V DC "ice-pick style" autimotive test light that I use on my tractors and automobiles.
Is it safe to use this type testor on automotive LED circuits---tail/brake lights?
I need to locate the correct wires for a trailer lighting kit. My car requires a special kit that is powered by a separate 12V wire.

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Probably ok, LEDs use less current than standard bulbs though so I wouldn't leave it hooked up very long.

FOr the supplying wires from the vehicle, no problem. for circuits with electronic components to regulate LEDs I would not use it as stray voltage in the wrong location will toast the chips. A quality Digital Multi Meter (DMM) will do well. Jim

(quoted from post at 04:33:08 12/30/11) FOr the supplying wires from the vehicle, no problem. for circuits with electronic components to regulate LEDs I would not use it as stray voltage in the wrong location will toast the chips. A quality Digital Multi Meter (DMM) will do well. Jim

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I have a Fluke 77. Could it be used.

A fine meter, go for it. Jim

AN "ice pick" type tester that has an LED in it would also do the job...

http://www.autotoys.com/x/product.php?productid=686

use a dvom type meter so you dont put a load on the circuit. you can also use an led type ice pick probe. i have a mac tools model, about 45 dollars. will identify power, polarity, ect. many of the body control modules dont care for a circuit load that is out of range, and may toss a code or do some weird stuff.

(quoted from post at 14:35:30 12/30/11) use a dvom type meter so you dont put a load on the circuit. you can also use an led type ice pick probe. i have a mac tools model, about 45 dollars. will identify power, polarity, ect. many of the body control modules dont care for a circuit load that is out of range, and may toss a code or do some weird stuff.

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Yeah---that's my concern!!

Unless the LED's have a Resistor in series with them, they operate on something like 1 1/2 Volt otherwise..
With 12 Volts, they will become a miniature Flashbulb..
Use caution..!!

Ron.

(quoted from post at 17:23:27 12/30/11)
Unless the LED's have a Resistor in series with them, they operate on something like 1 1/2 Volt otherwise..
With 12 Volts, they will become a miniature Flashbulb..
Use caution..!!

Ron.

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My intent is to check voltage on wire-----Tail light--turn----brake----for hookup verification. I will not be introducing voltage.
Since it is apparent that I do not fully understand LED Lighting, I do know that they use less voltage then regular bulbs.
I would think that if a regular test light was used, and left connected for longer then the time to verify voltage--fused circuit might treat this like a short. In which case the fuse would hopefully blow and other items would not be effected.
Am I correct :?:
I am just trying to gain knowledge on this subject and I have decided to check voltage with my Fluke Meter.
--as was advised.