Sparks when connecting multimeter lead (not in amps mode)???

[JayMan07]

Several times I have seen sparks when connecting my picoscope lead to 12VDC automotive circuits.

Then today I had the com lead of my fluke 87 not touching anything and when I touched a battery terminal with the positive lead I saw a spark at the tip of the lead (my buddy saw it as well).  No it wasn't in amps or anything like that.  Anyone else ever see this?  Is it static electricity 

I have seen large static sparks and I have also seen sparks from direct shorts and these sparks look and behave more like static.  For example, they don't leave any marks on the lead tips like a high current short would.  I'm using fluke silicone leads, the super flexible kind.  Maybe they can pick up static???

Thank goodness it didn't damage my fluke but it was unnerving none the less.

[Distelzombie]

I would say the car is the part that picks up static. Maybe ground it?