Having a car tire pump on hand is always a smart move. It’s faster and simpler than going to a gas station and using their plug-in pumps to inflate your tires quickly and efficiently. But are cordless car tire pumps worth it? Let’s find out.
The Benefits of Cordless Car Tire Pumps
Battery life
Proper tire inflation is essential for improving fuel economy and maintaining even tread wear. However, it can be a hassle to maintain the required air pressure. Most drivers have to visit gas stations and keep their car running to add air pressure. Cordless tire pumps make topping up your tires simple and convenient from the comfort of your own home. These pumps are lightweight enough to fit easily in your trunk and feature large digital gauges, making it easy to view the exact tire pressure levels.
One excellent option is the Black + Decker Max Inflator. It is powerful and versatile, capable of filling tires quickly in just over three minutes. With its long-lasting battery, you won’t have to worry about it depleting quickly like other models. However, this model lacks features such as USB charging ports or LED emergency lighting that other models may provide.
Another great choice is the Audster FC368 portable air pump. It offers a maximum pressure of 140 PSI and is ideal for inflating flat car tires quickly. It also works well for bike tires. With its LCD display, you can easily see the current air pressure as well as preset values. It even stops inflation automatically when the desired pressure has been reached, preventing overinflation.
Safety features
Having your own cordless car tire pump can save you the trouble of waiting in line at public gas station pumps. It also eliminates the risk of getting your hands dirty or worrying about bacteria or viruses on shared handles. A good portable tire pump comes equipped with a pressure gauge, allowing you to maintain proper tire pressure for improved fuel efficiency and safety.
For example, the Makita MP100DZ 12V Max CXT Car Tire Pump offers an array of adapters for both Schrader and Presta valves. Its high-visibility pressure gauge is easy to read and features an automatic shut-off feature once the desired PSI has been reached. Plus, its compact and lightweight design easily fits in any trunk and operates quietly.
Ease of use
Battery-powered cordless car tire pumps provide more flexibility compared to 12V corded models that require a power source. They are also much easier to transport, making them suitable for bike tires, sports equipment, and, of course, car tires. Consumer Reports conducted tests on several models of battery-powered portable tire inflators and found them all to perform equally well. They are easy to use and provide fast and reliable air pressure delivery. Some models even include digital gauges with an auto-shutoff feature for forgetful users.
For portability, look for models with long rubber hoses that tuck neatly away inside the pump when not in use. The AVID Power Cordless is a great example, featuring a locking, loss-free air chuck and a backlit pressure gauge for easy reading.
Why You Should Consider a Cordless Car Tire Pump
Regardless of whether you need an emergency road kit or simply want an easy-to-use air pump, cordless models offer more flexibility and convenience. They run on batteries and often come equipped with multiple adapters to meet different types of tires. Some models can even handle motorcycle tires. Many cordless pumps also feature digital gauges with backlit readings, making them visible even in low-light environments.
Proper tire inflation can significantly improve fuel economy, reduce puncture risk, and extend tire lifespan. While new vehicles typically come equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems, it is still wise to keep a cordless car tire pump handy in your trunk for emergencies and regular checkups.
Consumer Reports conducted rigorous tests on battery-powered pumps from various brands and found two standout models. One is an exceptional high-end option that costs more than most handheld air pumps, while the other is a highly recommended budget brand that outperformed older handheld models. Both can be purchased for under $169 as a bare tool, especially during sales or with coupons.
So, are cordless car tire pumps worth it? Absolutely! They offer the convenience of inflating your tires anytime, anywhere, without the hassle of visiting gas stations or relying on external power sources. With their portability, safety features, and ease of use, these pumps are a valuable tool for any car owner.
