Buying a car tire inflator should be a low-cost emergency tool that you can keep in your trunk. The best inflators have an easily accessible handle and handy work light. They should have roomy storage cubbies for extra nozzles, hoses, and power cords. If an inflator has cramped storage compartments, the cord might dangle. Finally, an inflator should come with a carrying case, making it easier to store in your vehicle.

Some models are so small and lightweight that they can be easily mounted on a bike or even stored in the trunk. Others are so bulky that they have to be carried in a vehicle. While choosing an air compressor, be sure to consider the distance between the air compressor and your vehicle, the air hose, and the chuck. If you have a lot of luggage, you might want to consider the size and weight of the air hose.

The pressure in a tire varies by temperature, so it is important to check the PSI of each tire before using a car tire inflator. Tires with low PSI will be difficult to drive, but with a high tire pressure, a car will not run efficiently. Proper tire pressure is important for fuel efficiency and safety. Once you have determined the correct PSI, you can start inflating your tires.

Choose an inflator with dual power sources. Cordless inflators can be recharged using a 12-volt DC power source. These can be conveniently stored in the car for quick use while away from the car. However, cordless inflators may have a cord and are therefore more expensive. It's important to consider the cord's length, as the power cord could get in the way of using the device.

Look for a high-quality car tire inflator with an automatic shut-off feature. Most inflators get hot during operation, so they must be used with care. You should avoid running them continuously for more than five to 20 minutes. Some models can even run for up to 30 minutes. If you're working with the inflator a lot, look for an inflator that has a high duty cycle.