A portable air compressor pump is a vital piece of equipment drivers should carry in their vehicles. Driving on improperly inflated tires and with low tire pressure can result in poor fuel economy and uneven tire wear. Further, tires can lose air slowly, even without a puncture. If you do have a car tire puncture and fix it with a plug kit, you'll need a tire inflator to get back on the road again.

　　If you carry a portable tire inflator, you won't have to wait for roadside assistance to fix your flat tire or limp into your local dealer or service center. And when was the last time the air compressor at the gas station either a) worked, or b) you had quarters to actually start the damn thing?

　　Most portable air compressors are powered by your car's 12-volt power source. You can also buy a cordless inflator, but may have to buy the battery and charging unit separately portable tire inflator. Some heavy-duty air compressors attach directly to your car's battery because they require more juice than a cigarette lighter socket cant provide.