Disclaimer: I purchased this tool at full retail price. I have a relative who works at Milwaukee Tool who usually gets me items at a steep discount, but there is no requirement to write about them.
Are you transitioning to electric tools in your auto repair shop? If so, you know the challenge of choosing a brand. It’s not just about one tool; you’re investing in a battery ecosystem and the overall quality and range of tools a manufacturer offers. When you’re looking at power tools for your shop, you’re not just buying a single item, you’re buying into a manufacturer’s entire system.
Is the Milwaukee M18 inflator, one of the pricier models, worth the investment for your auto repair shop? The answer often depends on whether you’re already invested in the Milwaukee battery platform.
My Milwaukee Tool Ecosystem
To give you context for this review, it’s helpful to understand my existing tool setup and how I use them. I started switching to electric tools a few years ago, but I still have a collection of functional air tools. Because of this, I decided to upgrade gradually, tool by tool. This approach allowed me to invest in higher-quality equipment over time, rather than making a large, upfront purchase all at once. Several years ago, I chose Milwaukee tools, as you might have guessed. They offer multiple tool systems built around their different battery lines. Most mechanics I know, and myself included, prefer their M18 line, as these tools are best suited for the common tasks in an auto repair shop.
I’m very satisfied with my Milwaukee M18 drill. My impact wrench is good, though not exceptional. The shop speaker, which uses the same batteries, is incredibly useful for both work and shop events. I have a charger and a few batteries that I rotate, as I rarely need to use all these tools simultaneously. The Milwaukee bare tools have proven to be high quality so far. I found myself adding to my collection faster than I initially anticipated, even though I’m generally careful with my spending.
The key point here is that I was already a Milwaukee tool user. This meant I could purchase just the bare inflator tool and utilize my existing 2.0ah batteries and charger, making it a more cost-effective addition to my shop.
Milwaukee M18 Inflator Review for Auto Shops
In February 2022, Milwaukee introduced a new tire inflator to their M18 Fuel system. At its launch, it was promoted as the fastest 18V cordless inflator available. You can find the specifications and details surprisingly listed under the “Plumbing Installation” section of their website. The inflator is straightforward to use: insert your battery and start inflating.
Milwaukee likely has a MAP (minimum advertised price) policy, as the bare tool consistently retails for $179 across various retailers, including Home Depot, Northern Tool and Equipment, and Amazon. This price point positions it as a premium cordless inflator.
The digital display on the Milwaukee M18 inflator is clear, easy to read, and intuitive, providing essential information at a glance for precise tire inflation in your auto shop.
I previously used the M12 version of this tool, Milwaukee’s entry-level line, and was so impressed that it convinced me to upgrade to this more robust M18 model. One standout feature is the preset inflation capability. You can set a target pressure, start the inflator, and it will automatically stop when it reaches the desired PSI. The inflator also allows you to save frequently used pressures as presets, streamlining common tasks like setting tires to 32 PSI. In my experience, this inflator is quick and efficient, and reliably reaches pressures of at least 100 PSI. It’s rated for higher pressures, but I haven’t needed to test its maximum capacity yet.
Given its high-pressure capability, the included Presta valve adapter is a useful addition, particularly if your auto repair shop also services bicycles. The kit also includes an inflation needle for sports balls and a nozzle for inflatable toys. While these are included, their relevance in a professional auto repair context is limited.
Even used Milwaukee M18 batteries provide ample power for the inflator. In its first use, this inflator successfully topped off tires on eight cars, two motorcycles, and two trailers on a single charge, with only one bar of battery depletion.
This inflator has performed flawlessly for all my tire inflation needs. It has handled various tire types, and my M18 batteries show minimal drain even after inflating multiple tires. The tool operates smoothly, without sounding strained, and its build quality feels robust and durable, suggesting it will withstand regular use in a shop environment with reasonable care.
There are a few minor considerations. The integrated hose has a brass screw-on Schrader chuck, which some users may not prefer. I keep 90° right-angle adapters and extensions on hand for hard-to-reach valve stems, but without these, the standard chuck might be inconvenient in certain situations. The plastic Presta adapter feels somewhat flimsy and may not hold up under heavy use, but a more durable brass adapter is inexpensive and likely already owned by shops that frequently deal with Presta valves. I appreciate the extra storage space in the compartment under the battery, but its utility is reduced with larger batteries. Also, small items stored there can easily fall out because the front of the compartment is open without a retaining lip. However, overall, my initial assessment is that this tool delivers on its performance claims—except for one notable drawback I’ll mention shortly.
The included accessories with the Milwaukee M18 inflator are basic, but most auto technicians will likely customize their inflator setup with preferred chucks and extensions for shop use.
Ideal Use Cases for an Auto Repair Shop
Many homeowners without a shop air compressor will find this inflator invaluable. But this is an automotive repair focused website. And here’s where the Milwaukee M18 inflator’s role becomes more nuanced for a traditional auto repair shop setting. For many shops, this tool might seem like overkill. Most established auto shops already have a shop air compressor system providing readily available compressed air. For a traditional mechanic in such a shop, this cordless inflator isn’t necessarily a game-changer.
However, not all auto repair businesses are traditional shops. Here are specific scenarios and types of auto repair professionals who would find this inflator particularly beneficial:
Mobile Tire Repair and Roadside Assistance: While mobile mechanics may have onboard compressors in their service vehicles, the Milwaukee M18 inflator offers advantages in portability and convenience. It’s lighter (7 pounds without a battery) and more compact than a typical compressor, and it eliminates the need for oil changes or gasoline. If a mobile service primarily handles tire repairs, this cordless inflator could be an efficient and valuable tool, especially for quick jobs.
Agricultural and Heavy Equipment Repair: Repairing farm equipment or heavy machinery often involves dealing with flat tires in remote locations like fields or barns. Transporting large, inflated tires can be challenging. Similarly, a flat tire on a large haul truck is rarely in an easily accessible spot for conventional air inflation. The portability of the M18 inflator makes it ideal for these situations, allowing technicians to inflate tires on-site, saving time and effort.
The Milwaukee cordless inflator simplifies tire inflation for vehicles located outside the shop, such as trailers parked in a yard or equipment in remote locations, increasing efficiency for auto repair businesses.
For shops that service large vehicles that are too big to bring inside, especially in inclement weather, a portable cordless inflator is extremely useful.
Off-Road and 4×4 Service Shops: Shops specializing in off-road vehicle modifications and repairs will appreciate this tool. Off-road enthusiasts often deflate tires for better traction on trails and need to reinflate them for highway driving. While CO2 cartridge inflators are an option, they require carrying multiple cartridges and refilling with air later. The M18 inflator offers a more convenient and sustainable solution for airing tires back up after off-roading.
Fleet Maintenance Operations: Businesses managing vehicle fleets, whether commercial or private, can benefit significantly. Ensuring proper tire inflation across a fleet is crucial for safety and fuel efficiency. The M18 inflator makes routine tire checks and top-offs quick and easy, encouraging compliance with maintenance schedules. For large personal vehicle collections as well, this inflator simplifies the task of maintaining proper tire pressure across multiple vehicles.
For anyone managing multiple vehicles or dealing with tires in diverse locations, the Milwaukee M18 inflator offers a convenient, portable, and efficient solution. It eliminates the hassle of dragging out a compressor, extension cords, and air hoses. Especially in confined spaces, this tool streamlines tire maintenance.
While not the perfect tool for every auto repair scenario, the Milwaukee M18 cordless inflator excels in specific applications where portability and cordless convenience are paramount. Assuming long-term reliability, the initial cost is justifiable for the time and effort it saves in the right situations. I anticipate this tool providing value for years to come.
Milwaukee M18 Inflator – Key Specifications:
| Part number | 2848-20 |
|---|---|
| Battery voltage | 18V |
| Dimensions | 13.8”L x 6.4”W x 7.8”H |
| Weight (tool only) | 7lbs |
| Hose length | 36 in. |
| Accuracy | +/- 1 PSI compared to standard gauge |
| Inflation range | 0-150 PSI |
| SCFM at 0 PSI | 1.41 |
| Warranty | 5 years on tool |
| Included accessories | 1 inflation needle, 1 inflator nozzle, 1 Presta chuck, 1 Schrader chuck |
