Best wheel & tire air compressors & inflators according to redditors
We found 343 Reddit comments discussing the best wheel & tire air compressors & inflators. We ranked the 93 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
This worked out for you, but I recommended buying one of these or something similar, if you can afford it. https://www.amazon.com/VacLife-Air-Compressor-Tire-Inflator/dp/B07MKSP49L
If you keep it in your car, you never pay for air, you don't have to worry about finding a station with a working pump, and you can put air in your cold tires. I pump up my tires seasonally in my parking garage after work. I can add to cold tires AND stay out of the elements.
Sure, here goes, but its up to you to figure out what is what:
This jacket was from the first run of jackets. The quality is great, and has improved since I got mine (my buddy got one from the next production run). Pockets for armor, good for 3 season riding (with some layers) Plus my tablet fits in the back protector pocket.
Snell & Dot rated, good airflow and visibility. Installing a sena headset onto this was a breeze. Currently covered in bugs.
The camera is pretty shitty but it's better than no camera. I try to use it as a dashcam. The build quality of the device is not the greatest as one of the clips on the device has broken off and I contacted customer support with no response whatsoever. Audio quality is good though. They are releasing a new device, the Sena 10C Evo, that looks like it solves some of the issues with the 10C.
These are awesome and cheap. They live in the pill container on my keys. So much better than foam earplugs.
In case anyone is looking for an air compressor now, I have this one and it works like a champ: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005ASY23I?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage
At home - or anywhere - with one of these.
The 150 is the better bet because it's clip on, instead of cigarette lighter. But if you're gonna pay retail prices, might as well just go this route https://www.amazon.com/Viair-00088-88P-Portable-Compressor/dp/B005ASY23I
This is what I have in the trunk at all times:
Tire patch kit
Tire inflator
Haven’t had to use this yet but in theory this should work if I get a nail that I can see...
Everyone should absolutely carry some bare essentials in their car like jumper cables, bottled water, cold weather gear, road flares, and a good flashlight, at a minimum. Check out /r/VEDC if you are interested in what people carry in their cars!
I carry the following in my F31:
General Automotive
Trauma Kit Contents
In addition, I carry a full compliment of 72-hour survival gear organized into my Get Home Bag: Gallery Here.
GHB Contents
On-Person EDC
Sleep System/Shelter
Mess Kit/Foodstuffs/Hydration
Cold Weather Gear
Electronics
Tools
out of the tarp)
Firestarting
Toiletries
Medical
I have a tiny little air compressor that just plugs into the cigarette lighter of any car, and while it's a bit noisy, it does a great job. I couldn't find the model I own, but this one would do the job just fine, and it's small enough to pack on road trips.
Yeah that's what i mean - the beefier portable compressors all come with battery clamps. No need to hardwire it in like if you were installing air lockers. I don't have this exact model but one very similar to it, just pop the hood and clamp it on and air up. I use it when offroading - air down the tires for better traction, air back up when I get back to pavement.
https://www.amazon.com/Viair-30033-VIAIR-Portable-Compressor/dp/B000X90YUO/
If that's excessive I'd hate to see what you describe mine as...
I have those same Jumper cables, they are really nice!
Do you know how large that Swiss army knife is in person? for a car I would get something like a Leatherman Wave or Leatherman Surge. Or at least a bigger swiss army knife (Although the small tweezers on those are useful)
What about a portable compressor? I have used mine more than ANYTHING else
This is the go-to suggestion: https://www.amazon.com/Viair-00073-Heavy-Portable-Compressor/dp/B0012WHBSO
Seriously. Purchase one of these and toss it securely somewhere in your car; never seek air again.
IMO, don't waste money on the rechargeable ones, but DO make sure your engine is running while using it.
Slime 40022 12-Volt Digital Tire Inflator
Keep a small DC air compressor, a higher quality jack, a fire extinguisher, and a first aid kit in your car.
This is the model I keep under my seat,
http://www.amazon.com/Slime-40001-Motorcycle-Tire-Inflator/dp/B000ET9SB4
But not every bike has much underseat storage.
watched someone use the CO2 cartridges. He used 6 of them, to get a minimal amount of pressure from flat, maybe 12 psi. Enough to sketchily get somewhere with a real compressor.
I would recommend something like this:https://www.amazon.com/Slime-40001-Motorcycle-Tire-Inflator/dp/B000ET9SB4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1526938310&sr=8-1&keywords=slime+mini+compressor
It will fill the tire up to spec, but it will take a while.
Got two of these from Pep Boys for my truck. There's a few mods you can do to them you can find with a quick Google Search to help them out a bit. But for the price you can't beat it compared to a similar performance couple hundred dollar ones. I've had one last me about 6 years and my newer two have been with me about 2 years now.
MasterFlow MF-1050 Air Compressor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000L9AD2U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_JXELybECMQSYK
Big brother (never used by me yet)
SuperFlow MV-90 Air Compressor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001RCTV46/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_G2ELybJSXB5EY
If space and money are no object: http://www.amazon.com/VIAIR-85P-Portable-Air-Compressor/dp/B0036E9VB6
No affiliation, just love my air compressor.
OK dont worry you guys. I've got this. First things first, you're going to need to open up a credit card with a high limit. $30k should do to start.
That should get you off to a good start. Eventually you might think about replacing the bumpers, adding a tire carrier, lifting the jeep, getting bigger wheels, adding a winch, adding a roof rack.
Gauges are super cheap and having one in your car isn't the worst idea. We also had crazy weather fluctuations last winter and I got sick of paying to fill up my tires every other day so I ended up just buying my own pump as well (I bought this one and have no complaints after 6 months of use).
I know it isn't a fix for you right now but I picked up a great air compressor for my car.
EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump, Digital Tire Inflator https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9WSTEG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_5JV0Bb6VM2PD7
Thing has saved my ass half a dozen times already(I am hard on tires).
You can also buy a small air compressor that you can keep in your trunk on Amazon for like 30 bucks. Can really come in handy and you won't have to find a pump.
Something like this: EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump, Digital Tire Inflator by 100 PSI https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9WSTEG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ypwQBbW3W0KRV
Get yourself one of these.
https://www.amazon.com/LifeLine-AAA-300-Volt-Compressor/dp/B000SL4AA2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519660203&sr=8-1&keywords=Triple+A+tire+pump
I was so damn tired of having to use quarters to pump my tires. They are damn near invaluable with the roads here in bham and surrounding. I keep mine in the trunk and use it all the time.
This Viair compressor is the one I bought about five years ago. Very well built. It is on sale today on Amazon. I recommend it.
Invest in a cigarette lighter powered tire inflator and keep it in your car at all times;
http://www.amazon.com/Slime-40022-12-Volt-Digital-Inflator/dp/B002ZBWKAU/ref=sr_1_27?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1409791379&sr=1-27
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0036E9VB6/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Supply and demand, business is business. Places charge what they feel they need to, in order to offer a service and make it profitable.
Air compressors require maintenance and keeping one available for customers is an expense. Keeping hoses and nozzles in good shape can be a challenge, too, with all the vandals and thieves we have here.
I bought a little air compressor via Amazon.com and keep it in my truck, under the back seat. Usually my tires stay okay from oil change & tire rotation to the next, but sometimes with cold weather onset, I need to top 'em off. I do it in my driveway with that pump. Pretty handy. This way I'm not forced to pay for air or stop in and wait at a Discount Tire.
I posted this a few days ago, and stand by it:
> I gave up on gas station air since some cost money, sometimes have a line and have a tendency to break down. Got myself one of these for $35 https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L9WSTEG and an adapter https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MY55BT5 for another few bucks. Screw waiting in line for gas station air.
It's good to maintain your tires, but I'll be damned if I have to wait on a line to do so.
Ah, so you're on a KLR 650, aka "The Tractor". Excellent! It's the best choice for doing long distance adventure touring when you're poor as shit. They're cheap, simple and hilariously tolerant of abuse. MASSIVE aftermarket for parts and accessories, too.
-Also for keeping your head and neck warm, get one of these: https://www.underarmour.com/en-us/mens-coldgear-infrared-hood/pcid1244401?scid=scplp1244401-001&sc_intid=1244401-001&cid=PLA|US|NB|GGL|DES|SiC|ROAS|&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI0PuRqLXW1wIVB25-Ch3KlQb2EAYYAiABEgKOovD_BwE
A word on off-pavement stuff: The KLR 650 is extremely capable of taking you very far off the beaten path if you put knobby tires on it, well away from pavement and civilization and deep into the wilderness. Which is awesome, totally awesome. That's my style of touring, personally. But it comes with a LOT of other risks and considerations. Are you thinking of doing a lot of backcountry riding on this trip?
Had a post like this awhile ago with more insight for those who care...
I guess I can repost my own post:
I do this kind of thing as a part time job for CDOT (Colorado Dept of Transportation) when I want extra money to buy something stupid, so I have some good insight as to what gets people stuck.
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>An extra belt and a breaker bar big enough to move the tensioner.
I mean, I don't carry an extra belt, but I'm pretty good about checking wear on it every few weeks or so. However, a breaker bar is definitely definite definitely recommended. It's most useful for wheel lugs, but it'll work on a belt tensioner too.
>Spare hose clamp for if you blow a radiator hose off/ intake hose/ turbo hose/ whatever. They cost like nothing (literal cents), but when you need it you need it. You ain't going anywhere with no air intake/ turbo intake/ coolant hose.
>Bottle jack? instead of the stock scissor jack?
No you don't need a full size floor jack.
If you have a regular passenger car (like a 4 door car) the scissor jack will work fine. They are kind of tedious to jack up and down but it's for an emergency, not everyday use. The bottle jack is a good idea for large SUV, Trucks, and RVs. Make sure you have a base or something on it if you have any sort of lift. Also remember that you will have to jack up much further to install the inflated tire than you had to for the flat one.
Only other advice I have here is actually pull that jack out and figure out how to use it. They all gotta be different and some are like oragami in how this click into that, which slides onto that... Reading the user manual and deciphering the IKEA-esque pictures on the side of the road just adds frustration and stress to the already crappy situation.
>Fix-a-flat kit
Meh. A spare tire is the better option. Make sure you check it's inflated at least every couple months. It's very very common that people have a spare, but that its flat. It does you no good as a spare if it's flat. A tire plug kit a definitely a good thing though. If you do HAVE to use the fix a flat, prepare to have a tire shop guy charge you twice when they find it all over the wheel. It's a nightmare to clean off, and as others have said will ruin you TPMS sensor. Depending on the make/model of your car this could be another $35 to $100 you have to spend, in addition to a new tire.
>Lights! and flares
(Ignore the guy in the comments that said lights are only emergency vehicles. He has no idea what he's talking about)
For an emergency kit, flares are better since they don't require batteries (that you will forget to change/ charge). However, lots of road flares last 30 - 60 minutes. It should take you 20 to change a flat. Be careful with the flares as many types drip as they burn. Don't light yourself or the side of the road on fire. I know you're thinking "well duh" but it happens every year in CO where I live. Someone lights the brush on fire near the highway cause they put flares out and got to fixing their car and not paying attention.
That said, you can get LED road flares that are bright and really good at attracting attention. Look up the laws in your area. Some places restrict the color you can use. Amber (orange) is usually a pretty safe color to choose. If you can get on that has more than one color, it's better. Monochromatic light doesn't give people good depth perception. Avoid as much as possible bright white strobes facing rearward. All you're going to do is blind the people you are trying not to get hit by.
> Screwdriver set with misc bits
Like others have said, this won't be super useful for your car, but for various other tasks it can be a huge time/ money/ aggravation saver to just have basic tools for random things. Ever tried to get a hose clamp off with just your fingers? You just have to remember to put those tools back in the kit. You don't need Snap Off for this as they likely won't get used that much. Don't get the cheapest ones at Harbor Freight either. Get the " pittburgh professional" ones.
> Socket set?
You can get the set if you want to, but at a minimum get the socket that fits your lugs. Get the drive size that fits the breaker bar you got from above (likely 1/2"). When I do this for work I had a cordless impact driver which was awesome, but a breaker bar doesn't require you to remember to charge batteries, and I haven't found anyone that just wasn't strong enough to use one. A breaker bar is like $15. Cordless impact driver powerful enough is like $250+.
>Glass Breaker/ Hammer
Honestly, you'd be better off with a spring loaded center punch. You have to have room to swing the hammer, and some people (elderly, children) just don't have the strength to hit the window hard enough. With the center punch, you just touch it to the glass and push until it clicks. Many cops and firefighters use these as a means to get you out. If you go this route, have a seat belt cutter, pocket knife, something...
>Fire Extinguisher
It's better if you mount this somewhere where it wont get buried. My favorite place is honestly the trunk lid or right in front of the taillight area in a car, under one of the seats for a SUV or truck (if you can easily flip it up). Imagine yourself suddenly panicking and thinking holy goddamn s**t my car is on fire, and scrambling to get to your extinguisher. Put it somewhere you can scramble to easy. If it takes longer than 10 seconds, its not accessible enough.
> A little portable air compressor
can really help if you get a flat and have a flat spare. Not necessary but sure is nice. You can use it for other things too (blowing up sports balls air mattresses etc...). They usually take FOREVER to fill a tire, but if you're stuck anyway...
>Roll of duct tape (because obviously).
I've used it to tape up bumpers after an accident so they can at least get off the road, to secure wiring, to a whole number of other things.
>Spare fluids.
Maybe. Gallon of coolant or distilled water at least. quart of oil, etc... This also depends on where you normally drive. If you never leave the city and a parts store is usually a couple blocks away then you don't have to bother. If you live outside the city and it would take you the entire afternoon to walk the next 15 miles to the store...well, plan accordingly.
> Tire pressure gauge.
To check main and spare tires. Don't trust the ones on the gas station pump (they get slammed around and scraped on the ground). I've seen them as inaccurate as 15 - 20 p.s.i. off.
> Jumper cables.
Better yet, your own jump pack.. Jumper cables are only useful if someone else is there to rescue you.
> A tow strap
is kinda nice, but if you're stuck and there's nobody else around it won't help you (unless you have a winch/ come-along). Nothing wrong with having one handy in case someone comes along though.
> Tire chains.
Don't know where you live but in CO there is actually a new (ish) chain law for passenger vehicles. When it's in effect you are supposed to have chains (or alternative traction device) in place. It's not just for truckers anymore. I take them out in the summer.
> A shaker siphon
Makes transferring fuel way way way way way less infuriating than dealing with the stupid friggin gas cans you have to buy nowadays. All the silly safeties and valves, it's like playing goddamn BopIt. They also work for coolant and washer fluid too, not that you would be dumping gallons of washer fluid... How to use it I don't carry a fuel container in my truck with me, but FYI it's illegal (in the US at least) to transport fuel in anything other than an approved fuel container. I doubt you'll get in trouble, just something to consider.
I'd still recommend one.
https://www.amazon.com/EPAuto-Portable-Compressor-Digital-Inflator/dp/B07176WJFB/ref=sr_1_49_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1539052632&sr=8-49-spons&keywords=portable+air+compressor&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/VIAIR-85P-Portable-Air-Compressor/dp/B0036E9VB6/ref=sr_1_42?ie=UTF8&qid=1539052620&sr=8-42&keywords=portable+air+compressor
Some of the plastic models are thin enough they can sit on/near your spare tire. Still handy to have in your car for emergencies.
That's the logical solution to the problem but not an answer to OP's question.
I will also contribute a logical solution but not an answer:
OP, I also hate having to let air out when I overfill and hate using a pressure gauge because it means connecting and disconnecting the hose multiple times to check. I own a "portable compressor" and the vast majority of those come with a built in gauge (example: EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump, Digital Tire Inflator by 100 PSI or the Viair (00077) 77P Portable Compressor Kit)
I bought this off Amazon when it was on sale a few years ago. The convenience of having it with me all the time and not having to worry about finding a gas station with an actual functioning air compressor was worth every penny.
I highly recommend getting one.
Awesome idea! If you love that person that much more, just had to share a step up from this product without having to know tire pressure: http://www.amazon.com/FOBO-Bluetooth-Compatible-Monitoring-Motorcycles/dp/B00WBD00FO
Added this to my wheels and having pressure and a quick temperature readout in the morning before leaving my kitchen is pretty insanely nifty.
Other ideas for OP:
Freezeout Balaclava: http://www.amazon.com/FREEZE-OUT-Balaclava-Black/dp/B0096R08W8/
Microfiber Cloths (great for visor wipes, general cleaning, and wiping condensation off the bike in the morning): http://www.amazon.com/Zwipes-Microfiber-Cleaning-36-Pack-Assorted/dp/B000XECJES
Cat Crap (visor antifogger): http://www.amazon.com/EK-Ekcessories-10003P-AM-Anti-Fog-Cleaner/dp/B002BHWZFI/
Lock Laces: http://www.amazon.com/LOCK-LACES-Elastic-Tie-Shoelaces/dp/B00975EAJ6
Motorcycle Tire Inflator (fits under my seat easily): http://www.amazon.com/Slime-40001-Motorcycle-Tire-Inflator/dp/B000ET9SB4/
I have one of these, works fine. I use it to air up tires all the time. I have been considering an up grade to a Mf-1050. With coupons when on sale I can get it for about $40 locally, Just need to wait for the sale.
https://www.amazon.com/Master-Flow-MF-1050-MasterFlow-Compressor/dp/B000L9AD2U
/u/keylime503 is spot on. Even if it is the law. Even if it is your right, why waste your time and potentially hurt your car just cause that's how its supposed to work.
Pickup an inexpensive gauge like this one
http://smile.amazon.com/Accutire-MS-4021B-Digital-Pressure-Gauge/dp/B00080QHMM
(or this one if you're old-school like me http://smile.amazon.com/TireTek-Flexi-Pro-Pressure-Gauge-Motorcycle/dp/B00XPL88NC/)
and you're good to go. Keep it in your trunk or glovebox.
for the completely gas station free experience, pickup your own compressor.
$20 http://smile.amazon.com/LifeLine-AAA-300-Volt-Compressor/dp/B000SL4AA2/
$45 if you're into overkill like me http://smile.amazon.com/Viair-00073-Heavy-Portable-Compressor/dp/B0012WHBSO
And you're done.
I've got a $10 compressor in the trunk of my wife's car just so I never have to worry about it when we take hers on road trips... but I wouldn't recommend something this cheap for most of you (for me its 3rd behind a 5gallon craftsman shop compressor and one of the $50 ones above)
http://smile.amazon.com/ABLEGRID®-Portable-Compressor-Inflator-Adaptors/dp/B015YZJ7KY/
They take up almost no space at all. It's just a tiny motor that you plug into your car's charging port and it inflates your tires.
This one is really similar to the ones we got. Dimensions are 12" x 10" x 8". I just keep it in my trunk.
Amazon link
I will never change my oil by draining the pan again.
I got this air compressor from amazon, it can be powered from your cigarette lighter and is light and fast. Much better than the Tesla air compressor and just as portable.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005ASY23I
That's really cheap right now ($45).
Keep a good tire inflation kit with you! I recommend a small tire inflator for slow leaks, pressure imbalance, or flats; and a reliable tire pressure gauge to verify all 4 tires have even pressure.
Get this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9WSTEG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_9yxDlykyVatVd
You plug it in, set the air pressure, hit start and walk away. That’s how I got rid of that fear...
I have this battery which is awesome but discontinued.
I also have this air pump.
I keep one of the mine slime compressor too. I should probably check and make sure it still works.
Better LPT: Go to any auto parts store or big box store that sells them (or Amazon) and order a 12V air compressor. These cost about $15 and are powered by your car's cigarette lighter / 12V power outlet. You don't have to drive anywhere to fill up your tires, you don't have to put quarters in a machine, and they can be used to fill up other inflatables. Here is a good example
Great post. If I were you, I would add to the box a power inverter (like this one) and a 12v air compressor (like this one).
This is what you are looking for
https://www.amazon.com/Viair-00073-Heavy-Portable-Compressor/dp/B0012WHBSO/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1492394608&sr=8-8&keywords=viair+compressor
Its FANTASTIC. Its very quite, super quick but does require 20A on the 12V outlet, my Escape can do it no problem so I assume your F150 can
i bought one of these and keep it in my trunk compartment. very handy. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0012WHBSO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
one word:
Topsider
Topsider is made in USA I think. I have one, works great:
https://www.amazon.com/America-5060-Topsider-Multi-Purpose-Removing/dp/B001445IZ8/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8
I've had my S for about eight months or so now, and obviously this early in the lifespan of the car I don't have a lot of long-term information on cost of ownership, but I'll offer what I can:
The oil changes are more expensive than a standard car. They're about on par with a luxury or performance car. For instance, my parents own a Merc and after comparing notes with my Dad, it's pretty similar. The plus side is that your new car will come with four free oil changes from the dealership, so that helps for a while. Also, the standard Cooper is pretty easy to change the oil on if you have a decent oil pump like a Topsider. (The S's engine is a bit more cramped and harder to do) You don't even have to get under the car to do it! You can practice at the halfway interval between dealer-supplied changes at first and then just transition over to doing all of them when those run out.
The non-S is also cheaper on tires than the S. At ~15k miles my front tires were getting some noticeable wear on them. I rotated them so I imagine I'll probably need to change the tires somewhere around 30-40k miles depending on how I drive. The S comes standard with run-flats since there's no place in the car for a donut. The standard Cooper has a spare bolted to the bottom rear of the car so you can more safely run standard (cheaper) tires without worrying about being stranded after a blowout. The non-S will also be a little easier on tires since it has less power.
You'll be able to save money with the standard Cooper instead of the S for sure. Of course, by getting the non-S you're going to be missing a LOT of power. My advice would be to NOT test drive an S if you're not set on getting one. Just...don't let yourself know what you're missing.
I'm in Chicago too. I use this cigarette lighter inflator. You set the desired psi digitally and it shuts of when it gets there. It is accurate and much quite than my last unit. I also have a digital gauge with bleed off that comes in handy.
Catback with diffuser - 450
Flossy knob - 120
Smoked side markers - 30 (Markers: 25+5 for amber bulbs)
Swede dash wrap - 70
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Total: $670
other junk:
$24 - mini repair kit and some metric wrench sockets.
$10 - digital tire gauge.
$30 - tire pump that runs on the cigarette lighter and fits under the mat with the spare tire.
$30 - a jug of Subie Super Coolant.
$17 - a phone mount (don't recommend it)
Stuff I dont care to price out:
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On the list to come:
Not if you get a decent one. This will air up a typical car tire from flat in less than the 3 minutes and is invaluable. I have one in every vehicle and has saved my ass multiple times. VIAIR 85P Portable Air Compressor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0036E9VB6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Um1SBbBQEY31F
Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005ASY23I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_1jUCCbZZ8HCA5
This is the one that I have. Works on tires up to 33". Requires you to connnect to the battery terminals while the car is running. It works really well and have used it 10-15 times on my own and other peoples cars without issue. It has a built in psi meter but you have yo switch the unit off to get an accurate reading. Also very quiet compared to pancake style compressors.
Here is what I use. I take my 08 WK Hemi on the beach, air down from 33 psi to about 13-15 psi. It takes about 2 minutes per tire to get back up to 33 psi when I leave.
Hose & cord is plenty long, however I bought a 6 foot hose extension just in case.
It gets hot, I bought a nice canvas bag to keep it in, I've had no issues with the heat besides accidentally touching it and getting a little burn.
Compressor - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005ASY23I/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Extension Hose - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ELJD0BW/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Bag - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BFNJEI/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I apologize in advance for this long post. None of these are "must gets", but they are what I got for my 2016 Premium forester. I'm posting this for my own future reference as well as to help some people who are wondering what accessories might be good for their new forester. I highly recommend ordering from Jackie from Annapolis Subaru @ 443-837-1422 as she can get you some good prices on the subaru accessories as well as WeatherTech products! I saved on WeatherTech shipping costs (~$20) by ordering through Jackie and the warranty is the same as if I had bought them through their website.
Please note that some of these accessory links are for my specific car year, model and configuration. I have a 2016 Premium forester without eyesight (affects the Covercraft/heatshield sunshade - they also have eyesight compatible sunshades!).
Also, I personally didn't get my windows tinted, but I think that is something that you should seriously consider doing :)
Speaker kit
Tweeter kit
WeatherTech DigitalFit floorliner (1st & 2nd row)
WeatherTech cargo/trunk liner (without bumper protector)
Weather Tech TechCare floorliner and floormat Cleaner/Protector Kit
Gorilla mud flaps
Covercraft's UVS100 sunscreen - use promo code FREESHIP
Exterior Auto Dimming Mirror w/ Approach Lighting
Luggage Compartment Cover (manual rear gate)
Rear bumper cover
Auto-Dimming Mirror with Compass and HomeLink
Rear Seat Back Protector
Two Home Depot 5 gallon homer bucket
Heatshield sunshade (driver/passenger, second row, rear windshield, sunroof) - note that their website only shows only one side window (driver/passenger), you need to call in to ask them to add the second row side window ones - on my invoice it says part #1425S-A and #1425S-B
Antigravity Batteries AG-XP-10 Multi-Function Power Supply and Jump Starter (check eBay to see if priced cheaper)
Viair 77P Portable Compressor Kit (check eBay to see if priced cheaper)
Amazon stuff:
EZ Pass Holder for VA Flex
Aux cable
Stickershield (parking stickers, etc)
Dropstop seat gap filler (driver/passenger side)
Door panel removal kit (for speaker kit install)
Two grit guards
Microfiber Drying towel
Microfiber cloths (3 pack)
Car wash shampoo
Wheel brush
Resqme (window breaker/seatbelt cutter)
Wheel cleaner
Microfiber wash mitt
Reindeer costume for Christmas
Headrest coat hanger
Road reflective triangles
Duct tape
Odor eliminator
Tire air pressure gauge
OBDII Scanner (Bluetooth)
First aid kit
I have this one - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WOT3YM6/ - liked it enough that I got them for my wife and daughter also. Worth noting - when using this, you may need to reset the plug after each tire - I have to pull the 12v connection and replug it. I believe that these draw an amount of current that is right at the edge of what the electronic fuse for this circuit seems to think is ok.
Wouldn't a more practical solution be an accurate TPMS system for the tractor which can be easily paired with sensors that are either installed inside the trailer wheel or add-on sensors that replace the valve cap? That way if dropping tire pressure is detected, instead of re-inflating a failing tire the driver can pull to the side of the road and either manually inflate the tire with a lithium battery powered compressor or call for a roadside tire replacement.
You pretty much have your question answered but I wanted to show some winter car accessories that I use and they have made life easier.
When my car is parked overnight I use a cover like this and it keeps ice and frost off your windshield. There are various types and sizes of these. Mine had side mirror pockets to hold it on and covers the wipers too. Putting in on and taking it off is much easier/quicker than defrosting and scraping.
Very cold temps can result in a dead battery, or one too weak to start the car. This happened to me yesterday and I used one of these to jump start it. I have jumper cables too, but with this I didn't need anyone's help.
When I got home, I trickle charged my battery with this. I just parked in my driveway and ran the charger's 25 foot cord under the garage door and clamped them onto the terminals under the hood. Started nicely today.
I also keep an air compressor in my car all the time. If I'm out on the road and my tire pressure sensors start beeping I can pull over anywhere and top them off.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9WSTEG/ref=psdc_155346011_t1_B0719925K5
Ok now I'm looking at this one. It has a digital read out I can set and is a lot cheaper. I'm gonna do some more research then make a post when I finally decide and test it out.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L9WSTEG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
That's the one I use
THESE BOTH ARE MUST HAVE IN YOUR CARS:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07694R3ZV
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MRU6FCK
Helteko Portable Air Compressor Pump 150PSI 12V - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07789PTPG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_vd.1DbE4G5B7Q
That’s the one I got. Only used it once so far but it worked great and topped up my tires quickly.
Make sure you bring something to re-inflate them too! Investing in a decent direct-to-battery pump is a great idea for this trip and anytime in the future. Those cigarette lighter pumps are really not designed to re-inflate multiple larger volume tires (these are great https://amzn.to/2ZMPuQD - used one for years to re-inflate after off-roading)... And a shovel too.
Deflating even stock 32" tires (in my Wrangler JKU, to around 20 PSI) significantly increased traction - I could go anywhere. When you air back up, the lack of traction is astounding. Just keep your speed down when you air down that low.
This is a good start, but if you really want to bring the right tools to the job then I can only recommend this!
No, I have a $20 one and it works perfectly:
For a slow leak, if you have an auto parts store nearby that's open go buy a cheap 12v compressor that runs off the cigarette lighter. That way you can pump the tire up whenever the light randomly comes on.
You can also get a tire plug kit and take the tire off, locate the leak, and plug it if it's not too close to the sidewall. You can find youtube videos showing you how to use it.
Rule of thumb in Tempe, if its not bolted down, its ripe for the picking.
Get a tire pump for your trunk, they are pretty cheap.
https://www.amazon.com/Lifeline-AAA-300-Volt-Compressor/dp/B000SL4AA2/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1549423150&sr=8-15&keywords=tire+pump
This is an inexpensive one on amazon. Still good in a pinch.
These are in a crate in the trunk:
These are located in the passenger cabin:
During winter I'll put an ice scraper and de-icer in the car/trunk. There are kits you can buy and add items as you see fit. Take the time (unlike me with the shovel) to understand how to use each item properly in an emergency situation. Also don't wait until you need to change a flat to learn how.
https://www.amazon.com/VIAIR-30033-300P-Portable-Compressor/dp/B000X90YUO/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=viair+300p&qid=1565709880&s=gateway&sr=8-1
This is the one I use, might be above the price range you wanted to stay within. Mine attaches to my car battery and the air hose can reach the rear tires with out an issue.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000X90YUO/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1417206077&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX200_QL40
Yup. I got a 70P for my dad and it's been awesome. I wanted to go with a name brand over one of the litany of random Chinese compressors, and it's hardly any more expensive.
https://www.amazon.com/Viair-00073-Heavy-Portable-Compressor/dp/B0012WHBSO/
Comparing these air compressors, would either be bad to use?
Metro Vacuum electric duster
Viair portable compressor
Instead of using the built in pump, why don't you use an air compressor built for cars and then inflate it through whatever port is available:
http://www.amazon.com/Viair-00073-Heavy-Portable-Compressor/dp/B0012WHBSO/
What are your thoughts as to how he actuates the sealer?
I've thought about building a diy chamber vac, and would rather just put one of these inside the chamber with this traversing the wall to the outside world. Costs less money and this way you don't need to hook up a separate gauge.
Another option that I used to do is to use a topsider. Then you don't need to get under the car and deal with the drain plug. This was the solution for me as I didn't have a way to lift my car.
Air Power America 5060TS Topsider Multi-Purpose Fluid Removing System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001445IZ8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9dNwCbH59VMW3
Sure, I have this one. I like the fact that it's all metal because these things produce a lot of vacuum. You just take the dipstick out and feed the plastic tube down the dipstick tube. It goes all the way into the bottom of the oil pan/sump and gets pretty much every drop of oil out. Just a piece of advice - it goes a lot quicker when the oil is warm so it's less viscous. Also, if your dipstick tube is wide enough, you can use a larger diameter plastic tube to speed it up a lot more.
Look into something like this. Lots of different brands/types. So easy and no reason to crawl under the car since the oil filter is on top.
https://www.amazon.com/America-5060TS-Topsider-Multi-Purpose-Removing/dp/B001445IZ8
Car tire pumps are cheap enough that they probably don't care, probably because most people that buy them don't care enough to read the directions, typical tire pressures and sizes aren't that difficult to handle, and they'd just buy something else if it broke. Anyhow, here's the first cheapie I found on Amazon. It doesn't list a duty cycle, but the directions do say it can overheat and needs to cool down for 25 minutes if that happens. The specs and directions don't say what the maximum psi is, but a reviewer said it's 150 PSI. That pump would get so hot if it was working over 100 PSI.
To get a 100$ duty cycle at high pressure, you have to spend a lot of money on a compressor like this one.
An alternative at roughly the same price bracket is a liquid CO2 inflation system like this. Fwiw, this is the way I want to go. I may start putting together my system when I pick up a welder in about month, especially if I get a tig welder.
Alright... but who set the precedent?
I remember two distinct eras:
What generation was the parents at that time? What generation worked itself into a self-sustaining frenzy? It couldn't have been the millennials, we were kids at the time and only doing as we were told.
By luck, I am a country boy. I keep a socket set in my truck, and a bootable ISO in my phone. I've dived into my engine compartment and fixed my own shit many times, an alternator or a water pump isn't that hard to replace and a tire is just a couple bolts. You haven't changed a tire, until you change a boat trailer tire with the wet boat still on it in the rain with a Toyota Camry's weak little jack (because the pickup's is missing of course) on the side of the interstate with waist-high grass.
You like your cell phone? Do you know how to restore it in iTunes? Is it an android? do you know how to get into safe mode? what about do a factory restore if your phone won't boot? Are your contacts being synced to google right now? are your pictures backed up to Google Photos? How much data would you lose if it fell in the toilet right now?
Let me guess.. not only do you not know that, but you also don't know the last time you checked your tire pressure. TPM sensors have batteries that die, and you could have low pressure. Your not gonna wait for the dealership or jiffy lube to check are you? If you have green caps, that's not a bad idea because you have nitrogen in your tires but if you have black caps, Get one of these things that are sold at a bunch of places and make sure your tire pressure is at what it says they should be at on your driver door. Or are you just gonna waste gas and wait till you have a blowout.
Sorry if I'm rambling a bit, but i see the same shit in your generation. "oh, the factory warranty is about to expire. Better trade it in on a new one! My 2004 ford truck needs a small rubber hose that every auto parts store sells for $10, better take it to ford and pay $250! Your a web designer, not a mechanic Nakota. Quit fixing your own car and take it to a mechanic, and not that ASE certified one that you know will trade mechanic work for computer repair work, the one that I know who is expensive."
Well, not all air pumps provide that free service. And every air pump around me costs more than 50 cents.
It's funny that I see this post today, because just this morning I woke up to a flat tire on my truck sitting in my driveway. Completely flat. An air pump at a gas station that's far away and costs money was simply not an option for me. But since I had this in my truck, I was able to pump up my tire - for free - and make it to work on time.
I've had an air compressor in my truck for around six months now, and it's been a great investment. It's paid for itself more than once.
TL;DR - Don't knock buying an air compressor. It's a good purchase. If you think it's a waste, just don't fucking buy one.
The one I already have doesn't go with me because its much too large to fit in the bag. But you know, if I'm buying stuff to fill the bag I think i'll go with this. Back when I was doing air ride on vehicles viair was the way to go. Maybe I'll hard mount one of my old compressors if this doesn't work. I just always assumed a big ol 440 was too much for an atv charge system.
I have this compressor, I love it. Requires a 15 amp cig lighter outlet. It works fast.
https://www.amazon.com/VIAIR-85P-Portable-Air-Compressor/dp/B0036E9VB6/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1539048348&sr=8-8&keywords=viair+air+compressor
I also keep one of these in the car. If it’s just a puncture I can plug it, fill it back up and go.
What to buy in order
Absolute first thing to buy is a fire extinguisher from Amazon. You can get a mount for it, mount it somewhere you can quickly get it
2) winch
3) air compressor.
This is what I suggest
Smittybilt 2781 5.65 CFM Universal Air Compressor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004K25GMG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_NF0ADbPPPVFC2
I'm not a smittybilt kinda guy, but that one is good. ARB makes a good one for more money. When you offroad, air down to 15psi
4) tools
Buy this first
TEKTON 3/8-Inch Drive 6-Point Socket & Ratchet Set, Inch/Metric, 5/16-Inch - 3/4-Inch, 8 mm - 19 mm, 47-Piece (Case) | SKT15301 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P6RJXJ9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_3K0ADbPSAB4NG
That'll get most of your minor stuff fixed
Then, get a torx bit set. I have 2 sets from harbor freight.
Then, when budget allows, get this
TEKTON 1/2-Inch Drive 6-Point Socket & Ratchet Set, Inch/Metric, 3/8-Inch - 1-5/16-Inch, 10 mm - 32 mm, 84-Piece (Case) | SKT25302 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P7WLYFH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ML0ADb04NMYX3
Get a 36mm socket for the axle nut
All that, plus various other hand tools (torque wrench, repair manual, rtv adhesive) , and you'll be able to fix everything on your jeep. I keep all that stuff in my metal box in the rear of my wrangler at all times.
5) get some ammo cans and fill them with various spare parts such as U-joints or what not
6) bottle jack or high lift. I prefer a bottle jack
Torin Big Red Hydraulic Bottle Jack, 6 Ton Capacity https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000CO86EG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_TO0ADb8MSFCNM
And carry at least 2 jack stands with you at all times
7) if you don't have lockers, this is the part where you start saving up for lockers (and/or Dana 60 axles)
Edit : just seen you have a Rubicon, you can skip number 7 😎
Really like mine. Used it a couple dozen times now. Only complaint is that the bag it comes in is too small.
Picked up a Smittybilt 2781 off Amazon warehouse new for $70. Couldn’t pass that up.
Smittybilt 2781 5.65 CFM Universal Air Compressor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004K25GMG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_IR3RDb24TDMY9
I did the hose connector mod for it so the hoses are universal now.
For big low pressure(under 35psi) tires the Smittybilt 2781 is the best performance to value. Doesn't have the duty cycle to handle high pressures in big tires, but it's fast and can do low pressure fine. Needs beyond that you get into slower but higher duty cycle Viair and ARB compressors mainly. $200-350 though. Then you go to multi pump ARB or Viair for $500-600. Then Oasis for 12v and York belt driven, for $1000-1800.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004K25GMG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 I don't know about you but if I am airing up tires I don't want it to take very long, Especially if I am on the side of the road for whatever reason. Those little 12V cigarette lighter inflators are toys.
Viair 88P! I have owned mine for a couple years now, very nice to carry under the rear seat! Everything included reaches from the battery post (passenger side) to the driver side rear tire(farthest stretch). No need to buy any other accessories!
https://www.amazon.com/Viair-00088-88P-Portable-Compressor/dp/B005ASY23I/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=viar+88p&qid=1570188974&sr=8-3
Get an air pressure gauge and a small compressor. If you buy the really cheap and crappy ones they'll break as soon as you look at them - I really like this model:
https://www.amazon.com/Viair-00088-88P-Portable-Compressor/dp/B005ASY23I/ref=asc_df_B005ASY23I/
Would buy again. A phone holder is good, extra charging cables (never enough), carry some rope, a tarp, some paper towels, maybe a couple bottles of water for cleaning up. Usually there's room down near where the spare tire is for some of this.
https://www.amazon.com/Viair-00088-88P-Portable-Compressor/dp/B005ASY23I
Here you go! It hooks up directly to your battery with jumper leads. It's pretty quick. Filled up my Jeep and my friend's Jeep, probably a little over 10 minutes for both together. Now he bought his own so we can do both Jeep in about 5 minutes with two compressors
Definitely get one. I think mine was like $60 on Amazon and it works great. My dad uses his more than I do, paid less for it, and it seems to be faster than mine. Link below is what he has. Don't be fooled by the duty cycle, I've seen him inflate all 4 of his 33" tires from 12 to 30 psi without stopping, then pass his compressor to someone else to do the same. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005ASY23I/
Viair 88P
I picked up something like this and carry it with me everywhere. I've only used it for myself once after running over a box of screws in the middle of nowhere, but I've helped out quite a few people with it.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B005ASY23I/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
That's the best one overall if you check the specs out. I love my HPDE's so a pump is necessary, this thing pumps QUICK.
I've owned and used this compressor over the past five years and it's been great. Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor. It does connect directly to the battery but that prevents blowing fuses when trying to use the 12v outlet in most cars.
On battery jumpers I've tried a few but found the GOOLOO 800A Peak 18000mAh SuperSafe Car Jump Starter works very well. I've owned three of them. The first time I had to use it was after it had been sitting in my trunk for six months without a recharge and it worked like a champ. I gave that one to my brother in-law as it was his battery that was dead and we were parting ways after a road trip vacation. I bought a replacement and have used it probably a dozen times, often when I see someone with their hood up in a parking lot and offer them a jump start - works every time.
I actually have a timely example from the sub today!
At this link, you can see my response to a (currently-removed) comment which included an Amazon affiliate/referral/whatever you want to call them link/tag.
The comment has a link to this compressor — http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005Z8HAUK — but instead of the link ending in the Amazon Standard Identification Number code for the product (B005Z8HAUK), it ends in a referral tag (B005Z8HAUK?tag=[AssociateID]).
The part including and after "?tag=" are the "affiliate" part of the link; Amazon Affiliates receive money for every product purchased from following that link (and might receive payment just because someone clicked it, I'm not sure), which is a violation of Reddit's spam policy, and the comment was auto-removed by the spam filter. I manually approved it conditional on the commenter's editing of the comment, mainly because the comment itself still contributed to the discussion, but since they have not done so yet, I pulled it again.
There are also bit.ly shortlinks for Amazon referral codes (e.g. amzn.to/A1b2C3d), but shortlinks are also auto-removed by Reddit for their potential for malicious content, so you don't see them very often.
TL;DR: if it includes "?tag=" then it's a referral link.
Just food for thought, instead of having a can of fire seal (I think it wrecks the tire) did you think of putting in safety seal tire plug kit and a compressor ? I put it in my other vehicles trunk since the spare is not inflated so I would need to inflate it then once repaired get it back in. I use that car for road trips and it’s saved me already. Doesn’t take up much space at all.
You could order one of these for less than $40. I've loved not having to worry about finding one at a gas station anymore.
OMG those Michigan potholes on 94 when you enter Michigan from the Indiana border are an absolute nightmare. Better get yourself a good portable tire inflator to keep in the trunk ;)
That one looks okay. But if you really want the best quality for the price go with one of the inflators by jaco products. I personally use the SmartPro 2.0 but the SmartPro 1.0 is basically the same thing but runs only on DC power, rather than AC and DC power. I like these ones because they have the auto shut off feature and are super accurate.
Also because it comes from a great company, Jaco is well known for their tire pressure gauges.
I bought the JACO one, which seems to be using a generic design from others but they all have good reviews (A on fakespot), digital, and auto stop:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015VXWZ9O/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B015VXWZ9O/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
EDIT: It's very small.
This one
https://www.amazon.com/Compressor-Fineed-Hand-Held-Electric-Rechargeable/dp/B019FIERRO/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1474138906&sr=8-3&keywords=battery+powered+air+compressor
I bought this one quite awhile ago and never used it (I went all in and bought the tank and regulator), but it should work:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019FIERRO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_hJVLBbSPYYRFE
I picked up one of these digital inflaters for accurate pressure in my wheel- it has a battery for on-the-go use and works quite well for $45:
Fineed Portable Air Compressor... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019FIERRO?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
The Ryobi is a very useful multipurpose tool, and I have one, to inflate car tires and balloons for kids' birthday parties and air mattresses and rafts and inflatable pools and soccer balls.
If you JUST want something for your OW, I suggest something smaller, that you can throw in your backpack if you want. I have this:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019FIERRO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
There are similar, and similarly-priced models on Amazon that have even better reviews than that one (though I've had no problems at all with mine).
They are little hand held ones that don't require your generator. :)
Gotcha. Well hope it gets revolved soon! Car looks great man.
https://www.amazon.com/EPAuto-Portable-Compressor-Digital-Inflator/dp/B01L9WSTEG
I bought one of these bad boys a few years back.. got me out a few jams like yours where I had a small leak causing a flat. Keep it in my car in my "emergency" kit!
Intex Classic Downy Airbed Set with 2 Pillows and Double Quick Hand Pump, Queen
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000HBIL9O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_cUX7CbGKGB85V
EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump, Digital Tire Inflator
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9WSTEG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hVX7CbG371WN6
The compressor will make inflation fast and easy. Also good to keep one in your car for flats.
Hey OP. I just purchased this one and quite frankly it's fantastic. It's also pretty quiet compared to everything else that's out there.
I live in New York City. Remember last November 2018 when de Blasio didn't salt the road and there was a lot of car crash?. Well that very same day I got in to TWO accidents. I slam on the brakes and the car just keep on going. Damage to the bumper. Honda sensing did kick in both times. I hear it pulling on the brakes when I already floor the brakes. The tires it came with my car is Firestone FR740. Yes I do notice air lost on it. Have to repump it every 1 to 2 weeks (19000 miles, 7/32(front tires) and 6/32(rear tires.)). Lost 2 psi. So remember to buy a air pump and I recommend getting quick lock on attachment. Unscrewing it when the value air is dirty will make the tires lose a lot of air. Epauto pump and get a lock on attachment.
EPAuto
https://www.amazon.com/EPAuto-Portable-Compressor-Digital-Inflator/dp/B01L9WSTEG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?crid=1KS0PAWVHLG63&keywords=epauto+12v+dc+portable+air+compressor+pump+digital+tire+inflator&qid=1556545244&s=gateway&sprefix=epauto&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&smid=A1L7F5DL4H71TK
lock on attachment
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MXBYPT2/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B07MXBYPT2&pd_rd_w=mgIO6&pf_rd_p=46cdcfa7-b302-4268-b799-8f7d8cb5008b&pd_rd_wg=kjwzh&pf_rd_r=Q2BFF0AGR3G8NP57HYWH&pd_rd_r=dcbca6f4-6903-11e9-af2b-df456cd2a423&th=1
This one is self lock. I should of gotten this one instead. Oh well.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07L2ZDN13/ref=sspa_mw_detail_0?ie=UTF8&psc=1
They aren't anyway. Mechanics hate them. Have a portable air compressor (that has a cig lighter cable) and rubber plugs. It's cheap and much safer.
From Amazon: Plug Kit
From Amazon: Air Compressor
I keep these in my frunk, just in case of a flat tire and AAA is not available or far away.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JLQGJGC/
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L9WSTEG/
Amen. I used a crappy cheap gauge for years and didn't realize it was off by 10 psi until I recently had a slow leak that made me have to buy a portable tire inflator to keep around. The inflator is calibrated to be accurate within 1 psi, so when I saw how far off my cheap gauge was I just trashed it. I did a lot of research online of gauges to buy and I recently decided to pick up this tire pressure gauge on Amazon and I have been very happy with its performance so far.
Does your bike use schrader or presta valve on the tire?
Definitely recommend getting an accurate gauge and even one of those mini inflators.
The low pressure is a problem with all cars, just more annoying on M3. I recommend getting something like this and popping it in the trunk for whenever you need to adjust pressure. Helteko Portable Air Compressor... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07789PTPG?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
meh - get one of these, put in your trunk:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07789PTPG/ref=psdc_155346011_t3_B002ZBWKAU
it has saved me more than once. Drive up into the mountains, get a nail, have a slow leak - just pump it up. You don't have to change the tire right away.
Every car I own will have one of these guys in the back. Along with a first aid kit, emergency roadside kit (lights/flares) and other stuff.
But for your wife, get her one of these
^ this, I always put a little inflator in my back-pack like this one by Slime
The key to deep sand is tire pressure, 18-20 psi for the road turns into a nightmare in the sand. I ride sandy washes in Arizona all the time and I always take the time to air down before I go in them because the difference is really night and day. Typically I go for 10-12 psi.
When I hit the slab again I stop and use this pump to air up, it has been a massive time saver.
Also, this video helped me with the sand, good luck!
balaclava
neck scarf thing
decent earplugs
decent earbuds
ram mount
(worth it)
ratcheting screwdriver
hex bit set for their screwdriver
compact air compressor that runs off a battery tender quick disconnect
key tags
clothes
etc
the compressor was 30 bucks, and came with a tire pressure pencil gauge, the repair kit i think was 10 dollars from my local autozone... and the rest i kinda just picked up from home/work.. and the repair kit minus utility knife came with the bike.
Thanks!
Amazon.com MV-50
Amazon.com MV-1050
This compressor, sold under various names, was recommended by several hardcore boondockers when I was looking. I have used it 3x on commercial truck tires and it works great.
Thanks for the recommendation. As I was looking, I noticed this one www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000L9AD2U/ref=psdcmw_155346011_t2_B000BM8RT8 looks basically identical. Turns out it is. Take a look at the questions and answers area for a full explanation. It's about $25 cheaper, and apparently the one that is being retired can still be found for cheaper still (although I have a feeling that's a very ymmv type of deal.)
One other question: I'd begun thinking about getting a product that has both AC and DC power plugs, but all of those use the lighter plug. As I'm not an off-roader or someone who drives on long road trips frequently, I'm wondering if I need something like this or would just be better served by the aforementioned unit that can take AC power.
EDIT: you know, now that I'm thinking about it, I am definitely thinking of scenarios where I would need to have a compressor that didn't have to be used right next to my vehicle.
This one is the best bang for your buck that I have seen. The price often gets down to around $50.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000L9AD2U?keywords=masterflow%2012v&qid=1452019093&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1
I see recommendations for Viair, but would be remiss if I don't throw this in the mix:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000L9AD2U/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I got one for my brother maybe 5+ years ago for when he went offroading and had to air down. He loved it because it was a relatively quick refill for his monstrous tires. He still carries it in his new truck with a plug kit. I recently bought one to carry in my trunk. People with RV's seem to rave about it in the comments.
I have the Slime COMP06 Pro Power Heavy-Duty 12-Volt Tire Inflator. Super quiet and really fast. My dad has one that works, but literally takes 10+ minutes to get a tire from 15 to 35 PSI. This one is probably the same as the Vlair one you linked. Dimensionally and the bar is the same.
As far as reliability, these have very great reviews on Amazon. Mine came in a canvas-like sack with a bunch of connectors. Definitely doesn't feel like a throw-away piece of hardware. Though take this with a grain of salt because I've only used mine twice. But I do recommend this one.
Just make sure your lighter outlet has a 15 Amp fuse. If you keep blowing fuses, you might need to wire up directly to the battery.
Cheap but usable AAA Air Compressor
Jumper cables
At least one flashlight
Leatherman (though I always have a pocket knife on me)
At least 1 gallon of water
Roll of toilet paper and paper towels
Amazon ~$17 AAA Lifeline 300 PSI 12 Volt DC Air Compressor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000SL4AA2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_wBWKBbTMJ2164
Buy $15 electric air compressor?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000SL4AA2/ref=mh_s9_acsd_top_bAVoap_c_x_2_w?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=mobile-hybrid-3&pf_rd_r=3BWRT3M5JBFP8493KTHK&pf_rd_t=30901&pf_rd_p=2c06d812-9b7a-58b7-b562-e3331eca609b&pf_rd_i=155346011
This is good advice. I'm re-thinking my spare strategy now to include a plug kit, which is only ~$6 and not that hard to use along with a 12VDC air pump (only 4lbs!).
For anyone who doesn't have a full sized air compressor at home, one of the 12V air compressors sold at auto parts or hardware stores are cheap and good enough. I have one in each of my cars, and a cheapy to carry on the bike for trips. This Viair Model 73 is the best of my car-carried compressors, I also have some sub $20 ones like this. You can frequently find them as cheap as $10 on sale.
Add a Battery Tender harness to your bike's battery, and get a cigarette lighter adapter to plug into it, voila, you have 12V power for the compressor, a USB charger, etc.
You can also buy a portable jump starter with an air compressor included.
> but don't inflate automotive tires with this
Compressor is one of the things I am looking for. Though I might use it sparingly. Otherwise this one looks good. I will check it out.
Oh ya I did check the compressor you had linked in earlier thread. However I would rather have all in one thing.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000X90YUO/ref=s9_hps_bw_g263_i5
You can get a compressor for less than cost of one of those pumps. Bike pimps really aren't made for car tires. It's possible, but a compressor is way faster and easier.
Viair 00073 70P Heavy Duty Portable Compressor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012WHBSO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ylJcAbCE90XYG
If you're not looking to run tools and stuff like that, you can get one much cheaper, but the best value seems to be around $50. This is the one I have in my car, though I have a full-size one for nail guns, etc., as well.
I've used one to top off a tire that was low, but it does take a while. And that was with a 185/65r17.
I recently bought one of these and it's a lot better.
Yea, I use it all the time for lots of things besides the occasional cleaning of my desktops and laptops. Such as maintaining the air in my tires, cleaning the garage, cleaning the inside of my car, and dusting yourself off after doing the yard etc. You might look into just getting an electric air pump if you don't much need for a compressor other than cleaning electronics.
This: http://www.amazon.com/Viair-00073-Heavy-Portable-Compressor/dp/B0012WHBSO/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1345955120&sr=8-6&keywords=air+compressor has decent reviews
as well as this: http://www.amazon.com/Senco-PC1010-1-Horsepower-1-Gallon-Compressor/dp/B0000AQK78/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1345955120&sr=8-12&keywords=air+compressor
not sure what exactly will work for you.
Buy a small air compressor like this one
Most 12v compressors are crap - they take forever and often overheat before they finish inflating your tires. As someone who's been driving on slightly corroded rims with a slow leak for years, I'd highly recommend getting one from Viair. I have the 70p, which is a little slower but can go up to 100psi for my bike tires. I got it for $45, but it's on sale now at Amazon for $30. The 85p is faster, but it only goes to 60psi, so it would be a better bet if you're only planning on using it on car tires.
They sell them at marine supply stores. Or hand pumped ones.
http://www.amazon.com/America-5060-Topsider-Multi-Purpose-Removing/dp/B001445IZ8/ref=pd_sim_263_4?ie=UTF8&dpID=41v-eR72mKL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR128%2C160_&refRID=1H3FNK6WKY9HV1FF6S9W
Air Power America 5060 Topsider Multi-Purpose Fluid Removing System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001445IZ8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_FcWszbYHR74QC
This
Time to go buy a TopSider.
A few years back the oil change place stripped the threads on my drain plug. I did something similar to OP and used this. It was slightly more of a pain but not much.
Also if you can get to the oil filter from above, look into a topside oil changer. I run the car until it's warm, suck out the oil, swap out the filter cartridge, and don't have to do anything but pump down the can and dispose of the oil.
http://www.amazon.com/America-5060-Topsider-Multi-Purpose-Removing/dp/B001445IZ8
I don't know why a shop with a pit would use one as it's slower than draining the oil and some factory manuals say not to do it (since it doesn't drain / alert you to anything sitting in the bottom of the pan, for one), but it is a real thing.
I went with this one.
Some are plastic which is nice to be able to see as you fill. In the end I decided metal might be stronger and longer lasting.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001445IZ8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I think I would care more if I didn't have one of these:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001445IZ8?keywords=oil%20extractor&qid=1449091557&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1
makes changing any fluid painless...
Get an oil extractor, way cleaner and easier. This one is nice and has caps so you can put it in your car when full without making a mess. The oil filter is on top too, so you don't have to worry about getting under the car and messing with that plug.
OK, should these things happen again, here are some things you should keep in the trunk.
A tire inflator that plugs into your cigarette lighter. It won't help much with larger leaks, but for smaller ones it'll let you reinflate the tire long enough to get to an auto shop.
If you want to plug a leak, you'll need a tire repair kit. This isn't as simple to use as the inflator (you'd want to practice or at least see it done first), but it's not rocket science either. A word of caution though: the needles used in those kits have been known to break, so don't do what that guy did at 2:48 where he was lucky not to give himself a vasectomy.
If the nail or whatever is still in the tire, then you'll need something like vice grips to pull it out. If it's not in the tire, then you'll need the inflator to push air in and some (preferably soapy) water to see pour on the tire and see bubbles where the air is coming out.
And since this kit is $6 and has plugs to fix four flats and a shop will charge you $5 to fix one, it doesn't take that long to start saving a few bucks.
A set of jumper cables. Honestly, I don't know why dealerships don't put this in every car that drives off the lot. Here's how to use them correctly. With these, you won't need to call AAA for (most) dead batteries, just find some kind soul willing to let you jump off of their car. For jumper cables there's a few things you want to look for:
I would. When I need to air up the tires, I set the PSI and leave it to do its thing. The only thing is that it don't come with a battery, so unless you have other 18v Ryobi tools with the same battery then it doesn't make sense to buy one. Also probably not a good one for a car trunk.
This one is in my wife's trunk and it works just as well. Also highly recommend.
(OP's post is going to get removed whenever one of the mods shows up, since /r/CarTalk is not Car Talk, but just for specific repair questions. Before that happens, does anyone know of a subreddit with an attitude more in keeping with the Car Talk namesake?)
OP: Some folks have suggested tire inflating foam. I carry a plug kit and a cheap battery-driven compressor like this. You can find a cheaper alternative pretty easily online. Keeping the compressor around reminds me to top off my wheels regularly, whereas foam can only be used in emergencies.
I also keep a couple of water bottles, a sleeping bag, and a pair of those "hot hands" things in my trunk in case of getting stranded, although that's probably not very necessary in your area.
Ideally, you should own a portable tire inflator. They're inexpensive, and you can keep them in your trunk in case of emergencies. Something like this would work great. You just plug it into your cigarette lighter, connect it to the air valve on your tire, tell it what pressure to inflate to (as listed on a sticker inside your driver's side front door), and it will do the rest. Technically, you should check your tire pressure every time you fill up with gas, but I tend to only check every couple of months.
If you have a leak, you can take your car to a local tire shop (Wal-Mart and Costco do this too), and they should be able to patch it for you fairly quickly (depending on how busy they are) and inexpensively (usually no more than $25). Some places even do it for free.
I use an air compressor I keep in my car like this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0036E9VB6
It's pricey, but it's very handy and it takes just a second or two to fill my m365 tires to 60psi (which drops to 50 from unscrewing it).
Cant speak of a jump pack/inflator combo but I use this inflator regularly and it is awesome.
VIAIR 85P Portable Air Compressor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0036E9VB6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9dpBDbZZMZ6QR
I bought this pump: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0036E9VB6/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
​
Combined with this plug kit: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ET525K/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
​
I don't think the Tesla kit is worth it and I've heard the compound it sprays into the tire is ironically ineffective since Tesla tires have acoustic foam in them.
If you need it for a car, I recommend you grab one of these and keep it in your trunk:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0036E9VB6/
It's pretty nice being able to just check and adjust pressure right where you parked. It also saved me a few times when I got a nail or screw in a tire that caused a slow leak - no need to put on the spare to drive it to get patched.
No explanation necessary, I totally get it! When I first started driving on the beach, as a teenager, getting stuck was the biggest fear one could have. And we always dabbled with getting stuck, because no one ever told us to air down your tires or any other little tidbits required for driving on sand. Obviously being in 4x4 HI will always make for an easier drive. However, 4x4 LOW could really start digging unnecessarily with all that torque. All those great features us Jeep owners love are for off-road trails, most of them will not be required for driving on sand.
All that being said, the absolute key for driving on sand is low tire pressure, allowing you to "float" on the sand. If your local outer beaches don't have air stations, you'll have to invest in a air pump or drive with the hazards to the closest gas station. I use a Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor and love it - takes about 2 minutes a tire on my stock KL Trailhawk Destination A/Ts.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005ASY23I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_UjmMxbM96HK7H
TLDR: Air down to 15psi for beach driving.
He's right. A battery clamp model is not significantly less convenient or much more expensive than a cigarette lighter compressor and it will fill your tire 3-5 times faster. That outlet is just limited on the amps it can pull.
I can go from 20 to 40 PSI in about 4 minutes per tire with mine. I run 45 highway but those extra 5lbs take too long and the compressor is burning hot by the time I finish the 4th tire. I've seen people put 5-10lbs in a tire with cigarette socket models (and have tried as such myself) and decided that was enough to get to the nearest gas station and finish the job.
Onboard air of course does not make sense for most people, but for regular offroaders it does. Especially if you have air locking differentials than need it anyway. Another popular option is actually using a CO2 tank. You get that filled up beforehand and it works very fast with no power required. They're usually good for 3-4 complete fill-ups.
I'd suggest the Viair 88P. The first review gives a comparison of all the new Viair models. I use mine nearly every weekend in the summer to air up my F250's tires (315/70/17) from 12psi to 50psi when leaving the beach, and it can do all four in 15-20 minutes. Pretty good for a 12v inflator.
I had the Harbor Freight 150psi 12v inflator before that, which worked slowly...for about the first two trips. Took like 30 minutes to air up. Then it just lost pressure. Guessing that a seal blew out.
I got the 88P. It's just shy of $60 and their smaller models drop down under $40.
https://www.amazon.com/Viair-00088-88P-Portable-Compressor/dp/B005ASY23I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519877842&sr=8-1&keywords=viair+88p&dpID=41OycFDAm9L&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch
Okay so here is the part thats included
Its kinda pricey. Its a pretty beefy compressor and it has a replaceable fix-a-flat style sealant canister.
Now you can get a beefier, similarly sized compressor for less money, like this one but thats going to actually be more than you need. Ive seen a few complaints from that brand that if you are over ~80 psi they will pop the fuse in your car, rather than the one in the compressor (which can take a pretty hefty amperage.)
Cheaper still, something like what I was using before I bought my volt would be a small hand held affair This isnt the exact model I had but its similar, and a comparable price. This is going to be slow to inflate your tire, but the benefit is it takes up virtually no space at all.
This is actually the sort of thing I would recommend. Its medium sized, reasonably powerful but not a monster, and it has a built in flashlight (which is SO helpful.)
A decent compressor can be got from walmart for $20, but if you want to spend more there are a ton of good options of all shapes and sizes and at any price point you can imagine.
Last but not least, if you dont get the GM one, you should include a can of fix-a-flat in any car, whether you have a spare or not.
PS a good alternative to the GM one might be the fix-a-flat brand compressor which also has a canister, and is a good price.
I have a Viair 88p that gets the job done. It's an little slower than some other options but compact, reliable, and priced right for someone who isn't using it routinely. A 45% duty cycle is enough to get all four tires aired up from 20 to 35 PSI in about 20 minutes.
I have this one in my shopping cart but haven't pulled the trigger yet. Any opinions?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005ASY23I/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
I have a 12v pump and 35s on my jeep took under 5-10 minutes dead flat. It clipped directly to battery. Heard the 12v outlet pumps were trash though.
Fuckers honestly often used from balls to the golf cart to grandfathers tractors. It is the most useful car accessory I've bought beside a high quality snatch rope and recovery equipment.
If your interested... 35's to 35-40 psi was minutes. Didn't stop watch it but was impressively fast.
I have the 77p and I like it.
Viair (00077) 77P Portable Compressor Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CDW2MCM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_42XmDb6GT0F2A
Also check out the EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump, Digital Tire Inflator https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9WSTEG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_o4XmDbQ5Y9QC6
Though I think that the Viairs will probably be more durable.
I find this air pump is easy to use. It's bigger than a book but doesn't take up much space in the subtrunk. Once you plug the tire then you'll need something to air it up. I set the desired pressure and the pump shuts off when the tire hits that pressure. And for maintenance, it's more convenient than feeding quarters into a air machine at a gas station and having to use the tire guage to get to the desired pressure.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WOT3YM6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_T-tQCbMF66XH3
Have you checked out JACO Superior Products? They make the BEST products for car emergency kits:
1 - Auto first aid kit
2 - Good quality tire pressure gauge
3 - Portable tire inflator
4 - Mini battery jump starter
5 - Trunk organizer to keep everything in
Amazon china? As someone else suggested, try the 12v tire inflator that jaco makes: https://www.amazon.com/JACO-SmartPro-Digital-Tire-Inflator/dp/B015VXWZ9O
If you really want to do it right, buy a digital portable tire inflator and that has automatic shut off function (will stop when it hits your target pressure) and verify the results with a reliable tire air gauge. I recommend a mechanical gauge as you will be leaving it in your car and don't want to deal with dead batteries when you need it most.
Here is what I use:
1 - Digital Tire Inflator
2 - Elite Tire Pressure Gauge
This thing is badass.
this thing
my friends have this guy and apparently it works well enough - https://www.amazon.com/NOCO-GB40-UltraSafe-Lithium-Starter/dp/B015TKUPIC/
I also have this one for tires and it works remarkably well for being so cheap - way easier to deal with than going to gas stations - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L9WSTEG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I have a small tote bag w/ a change of clothes + contact lenses and spare meds just in case as well, my lexus came w/ a first aid kid so im trusting that'd cover anything else
Gotcha. I'll spend the 1-2 hours doing the research. The one you linked looks good for baseline, I saw on amazon this air compressor for $40 with good reviews that I am considering now that I saw what you linked. But the people who sell it don't suggest using a AC DC converter for wall plugs.
Then again I am also looking at this which has more power and can plug into a wall but it isn't for tires and stuff.
Here's what I've been using:
EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9WSTEG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Rhino USA Heavy Duty Tire... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J580F2K?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I bought the one below on oct. 8th 2018. So I would not say I have had it a long time. But, I have used it over a dozen times. Unfortunately. To file a tire from 0psi to 35-40psi takes some time. I used it quite a bit in the harsh midwest winter last year and I was able to sit in the car while it filled the tire. In the future I would look for something with a higher CFM.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L9WSTEG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
As for jump pack I have the viking pack from harbor freight. It currently has a 75% charge. And I cannot remember when I last plugged it in.
The one I have doesn't seem to be available anymore but something like this should work:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L9WSTEG
There are a bunch of different no-name brands selling the same thing with minor differences. I would consider them to be equivalent.
This is the one I plan on ordering
4.5 star rating from over 900 reviews
LED light, digital pressure gauge
you dont even need to spend that kind of money on it.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L9WSTEG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
After seeing your post, I just ordered this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L9WSTEG/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A1L7F5DL4H71TK&psc=1#customerReviews
Hopefully I never have to use it!
I ended up buying a JACO compressor that can connect to AC power since the fuse (DC) died in my car. It's the best compressor I've ever used, worth the money.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07694R3ZV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I now have 3 total compressors. Only the JACO connects to AC power and I keep it at home, the other 2 are Slime brands which haven't let me down yet.
I bought one of these last October to keep in the car for just such occasions. It’s been a lifesaver.
Helteko Portable Air Compressor Pump 150PSI 12V - Digital Tire Inflator - Auto Tire Pump with Emergency Led Lighting and Long Cable for Car - Bicycle - Motorcycle - Basketball and other https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07789PTPG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GhXoDbT1PDKC1
Do it yourself. Go buy an air compressor like this one, set it to the recommended PSI, flip on the switch and you're good to go.
This looks promising. It claims to inflate standard sized tires in under 3 minutes.
Slime COMP06 Pro Power Heavy-Duty 12-Volt Tire Inflator | $50.27 Prime | 4.0 Stars | Amazon
Edit: Heavy duty version too
Slime 40026 2X Heavy Duty Direct Drive Tire Inflator | $72.35 Prime | 4.2 Stars | Amazon
This is what I use http://www.amazon.com/Slime-COMP06-Power-Heavy-Duty-Inflator/dp/B000M8R0QM/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1323909885&sr=1-1
Works great, has already made it past 2 years old and I use it all the time between my gf's car, my car, and random strangers. Only recommendation is don't use the cigarette lighter plug, directly connect it to your battery instead.
You can buy a tire pressure gauge for less than $5 at any auto supply store. It looks kind of like a pen or stylus with a small opening on one end. You can also buy digital gauges, but I don't see the benefit. The battery will die after a year or two, and it's usually not easy to replace. An analogue one will last forever and you can just toss it in your glove box and forget about it. (While you're at it, why not pick up a $2 scraper for removing your registration sticker every 2 years?)
When you open your driver's side door you should see a sticker that lists the optimal air pressure. It should say something like 30 or 35 PSI, sometimes with a different value for the front and back tires. Unscrew the little black cap from your valve stem (the place where you put air in the tire) and don't lose it! They're really small and like to roll away if you put them on the ground. Press the open end of your gauge against the valve stem. On the other end, a little ruler will pop out. The number indicated on the ruler is your current air pressure. Press the ruler all the way back in and test it again just to be sure you got an accurate reading.
If you're more than 1 or 2 PSI low, I'd suggest putting some more air in. For $20 you can get a portable air compressor that plugs into your cigarette lighter. If you're over by more than 1 or 2 PSI, release some air by pressing the tiny little pin in the middle of your valve stem. You'll hear a hissing sound. Whether you're putting air in or letting air out, check your pressure again every 10 seconds or so to make sure you didn't go too far. When you get a good reading, make sure you remember to put the valve stem caps back on!
If you live somewhere where it gets cold in the winter, now is a very good time to do this. Colder temperatures make your tire pressure drop, and tires with low pressure have worse traction and increased stopping time. So it's a double whammy--colder temps make you more likely to have low pressure, and low pressure makes you more susceptible to the hazards of colder temps.
> as a vacuum. I have a 7+ year old vacuum that sounds like a jet taking flight, seriously wont let you hear
It is pretty loud, but it is totally worth it. I purchased mine 2 years ago for around 35 bucks. It is incredibly well made with very thick steel. probably the best purchased I've made after this portable tire inflator