In the past, impact wrenches were mostly pneumatic or air-powered. This meant that professional mechanics only used them. A 100 PSI air compressor is typically required to run a 12-inch pneumatic impact wrench. . This is a big investment, but it’s worth buying the best cordless impact wrench for automotive? You will find out in this guide.
Cordless impact wrenches battery-powered have gotten better and cheaper as battery technology has improved. You can use them instead of pneumatic impact wrenches at a higher price. On the other hand, Cordless impact wrenches have a huge advantage – mobility. This means that these tools aren’t tied to a compressor with an air hose, so they can go where they’re needed. We have listed down five cordless impact wrenches, from a heavy-duty, high-torque model to a small, medium-duty model for you to consider buying. We put them all through the same tests to determine which ones were best and worst. Here, we give you some buying advice and show you which impact wrenches we think are the best.
What is a Cordless Impact Wrench?
Cordless impact wrenches are very good at loosening and tightening bolts, lug nuts, and other rusty or stuck parts. They have a lot of rotational torque that regular drills can’t match, and they deliver a lot of torque with very little effort from the user. Because they have a lot of torque, they are usually used in the automotive and construction industries. They are also very popular in many other fields where much torque is needed. Torque is the amount of force it takes to move something.
Top 5 Cordless Impact Wrench for Automotive in 2022
1. Ingersoll Rand Cordless Impact Wrench W7152-K22
This Ingersoll Rand 1/2 cordless impact wrench is ideal if you want to spend your hard-earned money on a powerful, long-lasting instrument. The brushless engine in this cordless impact wrench can deliver 1,500 pounds of torque when it comes to breaking nuts.
IQV Power Control System
When you buy the Ingersoll Rand Hi-Impact Wrench, it comes with the IQV System Power Control. This has four modes Full Power, Half Power, Hand Tight, and Wrench Tight. Even more, control is given by the variable speed trigger, which lets you set the speed. There’s no need to change tools from axle nuts to oil pans and bolts to pre-torque joints.
Steel Reinforced Frame
To withstand the wear and tear of a typical workshop, the 20V Ingersoll Rand Impact Wrench is built to last. It has an impact and chemical-resistant housing built into a frame made of steel.
360 Degree Shadowless LED Light Ring
A 360-degree ring of shadowless LED light illuminates the anvil. When you’re working, you’ll be able to see everything clearly. Even as a task or work light, the LED ring can be used. With four dimming options and a timer, users can adjust the brightness to suit their needs.
Pros
- Can remove even the most rusted nuts and bolts.
- It is protected against harsh conditions.
- Easy to adjust speed.
- With four dimmable settings.
- With auto-shutdown mode.
Cons
- Heavy compared to others.
2. Makita Cordless Drive Impact Wrench XWT08T
Anvil kit with friction ring and extended run time and speed control make the Makita 18V LXT Drive Impact Wrench (XWT08T) with 740-foot pounds of fastening torque and 1,180-foot-pounds of breaking torque, it is unbeatable. In addition to its long run time, the Makita brushless motor increases power, speed, and tool.
Brushless Powerful Motor
This tool has an advantage over the competition with a brushless motor because it delivers more torque. The 740 lbs of maximum torque and 1,180 lbs of breakaway torque are enough to tighten or loosen even the most rusted bolts. This Makita cordless impact wrench has a power selection switch to choose between three speeds, unlike other cordless impact wrenches.
Good Quality Battery
Any cheap cordless impact wrench worth it’s salt must have a long-lasting battery. It was also difficult to find a high-quality tool because people are used to getting poor battery life from cheap tools, making it difficult to find a high-quality tool. Fortunately, the battery life of this Makita cordless impact wrench exceeded my expectations, making me very happy.
Anvil with Friction
The torque and the unique anvil and hammer impact mechanism work together to maximize driving and fastening power to provide maximum torque. Easy socket swaps with 1/2″ anvil with friction ring.
Pros
- Provides higher torque.
- Accurate fastening control.
- Fast and easy socket changes.
- Brushless powerful motor.
Cons
- A bit heavy.
3. DEWALT 20V (DCF889B) MAX with Detent Pin
The maximum output of this Dewalt DCF889B is 20V and 300 ft-lbs. You’ll see a few different models for corded impact wrenches, but the numbers are generally the same. Most lug nuts will come off with ease, and the stuck ones will require some extra work.
Two Assist Modes and Two Standard Modes
DeWalt surprised us with a compact stubby with 450 ft-lbs of breakaway torque in the Atomic line, and the test rig confirmed it! The sub-5-inch head angle ensures that the battery doesn’t get in the way, making it a legitimately compact device. Two standard modes and two assistance modes are provided for user convenience. More advanced controls are available, but you have to give up some of your own power to get them.
Safety Yellow bag
The durable yellow and black tool bag will keep your impact wrench safe when you’re on the go from your house to the job site. Using the 20-volt 5.0 Ah lithium-ion battery, you will know when to recharge by checking the fuel gauge on the battery pack. DEWALT’s 180+ power tool collection can be used with both the battery and the multi-voltage charger.
Comfortable Grip
To avoid wrist pain and move the impact wrench with ease, you must have a comfortable grip on the impact wrench when using it. The ergonomic grip on this Dewalt model makes it even more comfortable to use. As far as size is concerned, this impact wrench is one of the smallest at just 10 inches long. With only 2.77 pounds, the weight of this cordless impact wrench pales in comparison to others on this list.
Pros
- Smallest impact wrench in the market
- Variable speed trigger
- 400 ft-lb of torque to carry out a wide range of applications
- With 3-year limited warranty
- Made for plumbers, mechanical contractors, automotive users
Cons
- No batteries or chargers are included in the package.
4. DEWALT 20V MAX XR
With a brushless motor from DEWALT, the DCF890B 20-Volt MAX XR Lithium-Ion 3/8 in. Cordless Compact Impact Wrench is more efficient and lasts longer. It’s small and comfortable, and it has a speed trigger for more flexibility. Additionally, this impact wrench comes with a belt clip to keep your tool close at hand, making it even more convenient to use.
Hog Ring
It has a 150 ft-lbs torque output and a hog ring socket attachment for changing tires. It allows you to control it via a sensitive trigger without the need for speed settings. There is 2,800 RPM at the top speed and 3,200 IPM at this point in time.
Variable Speed Control
Detent pin-equipped 12-inch anvils (also available in hog-ring) provide strong socket retention, are highly resistant to shearing or breaking, and can handle drops of up to 8 feet (6 meters). The impact wrench’s no-load speed can be adjusted to 400, 1,200, or 1,900 RPM using the 3-speed slide selector.
Uses XR Lithium-ion Batteries
The XR lithium-ion batteries, patented by Dewalt, are used to power the tool. A single charge of these battery packs provides more amp-hours. Thanks to the two batteries included in Dewalt’s best cordless impact wrench kit, you’ll be able to keep working for a long time.
Pros
- Brushless motors for their long lifespans and high performance.
- The socket is surrounded by three LED lights, illuminating the entire work area.
- Increase in speed that is smooth and gradual.
- Easy to control via the sensitive trigger.
Cons
- Battery not included.
5. K I M O. 20V
Impact wrenches can shatter standard sockets, so a starter kit of impact-ready sockets is a huge advantage. Kits for the Kimo Cordless Impact Wrench include seven impact sockets (10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, and 21 millimeters) and three extensions (3, 5, and 10 inches). The belt clip and carrying case are also included.
Brushless Motor
You can get up to 300 foot-pounds of torque out of this 20V brushless motor. You can choose from 0 to 1,800 RPM (revolutions per minute), 2500 RPM (revolutions per minute), or 3000 (revolutions per minute). The kit includes a 2-Ah battery and charger, and an LED.
3000 In-Lbs. Brute Power
The KIMO electric wrench features 3600 IPM and3000 in-lbs torque, making it easy to remove corroded bolts and nuts on the rims from farm and garage machinery. Thanks to the two-speed mode and up to 3000 RPM, remove lug nuts in seconds. One of the most fearsome weapons in your arsenal is the impact gun.
Premium Brake Stop
KIMO’s electric impact wrench features cutting-edge technology to keep your nuts and bolts from falling or becoming damaged after loosening. You may have seen something like this before, but it doesn’t give you any real-world experience. If a nut or bolt breaks loose while in Reverse-Mode, it activates the brake stop, and the speed and torque are reduced to prevent the nut/bolt from flying to a place where it cannot be caught.
Pros
- Multiple sockets and extensions are included in the kit’s components.
- Strong enough to handle smaller tasks.
- Reasonable cost.
- Includes Ah battery and charger.
Cons
- A bit underpowered
Features to Consider When Buying Best Cordless Impact Wrench for Automotive
Choosing the best impact wrench for your vehicle is not easy. So, we have listed below the features you should consider when buying a cordless impact wrench.
Power and Speed
Cordless impact wrenches are all about power, whether you’re tightening or loosening something. You need much power to move the fastener quickly without overtaxing the motor.
Slower but still important is speed. If you’re working in the construction or landscaping industry, you’ll want to run long timber screws quickly while keeping them under control.
Weight and Size
One of your priorities should be the most compact and lightest package while maintaining high quality. The vibration and noise produced by impact wrenches and drivers can quickly wear you out. The power-to-weight ratio is critical in determining which cordless impact wrench is best in any given category.
Compact (including stubby), mid, and high-torque are the three main categories to consider. As your size increases, so does your level of power. Keep in mind how much better the brushless models perform today than a few years ago. Smaller models are often used to get the same performance as larger models just a generation or two older.
Smart Controls and Assistive Technology
Impact wrenches’ assist modes and intelligent controls are highly sought-after options. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to over-torque a fastener because they all have a torque rating. With a torque wrench, you can work quickly and efficiently using an automatic stop on a nut or bolt.
In reverse, auto modes can slow down or stop a fastener significantly so that you don’t run it completely dry. It’s a lifesaver if you’re working at heights or simply despise hunting down stray nuts and bolts.
As a result, smart controls have additional advantages. The main features are inventory management and tracking, but the apps have a lot more to offer that’s worth exploring.
Ergonomics
Despite being powerful, noisy, and heavy tools, the ergonomics of impact wrenches can be overlooked in some designs. A lighter, more balanced, and ergonomically designed tool is more user-friendly and less exhausting throughout a long shift.
Price and Value
All tools are evaluated based on their potential value. It’s not about which one is the cheapest; it’s about getting the job done right and getting the most for your money.
Power Source
Cordless impact wrenches are the most common. The most common voltage is 18 volts, but 12-volt versions are also available. Some impact wrenches are powered by the mains (in 110v for site use). Due to recent advancements in li-ion battery technology, these are good if you need sustained power all day but are not as powerful as their cordless counterparts.
As a result, 18v impact wrenches have become the most popular because they can produce nearly twice as much torque as corded models. As long as one battery is charging, the other can be used. This allows for greater mobility
when it comes to the task at hand.
Chuck Type
There are only a few chuck sizes to choose from when it comes to impact wrenches, and they are all square. Each of the following sizes is available: 3/8″, 1/2″, 3/4″, and 1″. It’s important to use the correct chuck size for the impact sockets you plan to use on the machine.
Application
Impact wrenches with a high torque output are typically required in the steel industry. Tyre companies commonly use cordless 18v impact wrenches to remove wheel nuts in the automotive industry.
Scaffolding can be worked with some impact wrenches, but they don’t need a lot of torque. Most impact wrenches come with instructions on whether or not they can be used on scaffolding.
While impact wrenches can tighten various bolts around the house, excessive torque can cause damage.
Other Features
Impact sockets are the most common type of bit used with impact wrenches. Because standard sockets are more prone to breaking and aren’t designed for high power, you should avoid using them. The bits for impact wrenches are much more durable. Look for impact sockets or impact socket sets. Make sure that you get the right bit for your square drive size because there are a variety of bits available.
Frequently Asked Questions – (FAQ)
How do cordless impact wrenches vary?
Batteries power cordless impact wrenches, but other than that. They differ greatly. The two most common shapes are inline (like a screwdriver) and pistol-grip (like a gun).
What Is The Main Difference Between Lithium And Nickel Cadmium (Nicad) Batteries?
Nickel-cadmium (NiCad) batteries are larger, require more maintenance, and are more environmentally harmful. Despite their similarities, the chemical composition, environmental impact, applications, and costs of Li-ion and NiCd batteries differ.
What socket size do you need?
The most common type of socket used in impact wrench is the hex socket. There are two types of hex sockets – the bi-hex/12-point sockets and the hex/6-point sockets.
Which is the perfect voltage for the best cordless impact wrench for automotive mechanics?
Cordless impact wrenches are available in voltages ranging from 18V to 36V. Of course, the higher the voltage, the more power the tool uses and the greater the torque it generates.
What Does The “Ah” Mean For Cordless Impact Wrenches?
It stands for “Amperage Hours.” In other words, the battery’s capacity is indicated here. A battery with a higher Ah rating will last longer between charges. As a result, the more Ah the tool has, the easier and more convenient it is to use. “Ah” ratings are a good indicator of the quality of a tool, and you’ll notice this if you pay attention.
How do you use your impact wrench safely?
· Before you start using your impact wrench, do not forget to wear safety gear—gloves to protect your hands and safety goggles for your eyes.
· Assemble your air impact wrench. Connect the air hose to the compressor unit. Make sure it is tight enough to ensure the right pressure will build up.
· Set the right speed you will need for your project.
· Try out different sockets from your tool kit for this nut until you find one that fits it snugly.
· You’re good to go once you’ve loosened the nut enough to remove it with your hand. After that, you can simply take out the bolt by hand.
· To tighten a nut, use the correct socket. Put the nut on the end of the bolt by hand and insert it into the hole. Pull the trigger of your wrench and tighten the nut with the socket over the nut.
· Turn off the power and store the wrench in a dry place.
What Is The Difference Between Torque, Ipm, And Rpm?
RPM stands for Revolutions/Rotations per Minute. This is the speed at which the wrench is working under. Impact per Minute (IPM) is a measurement of the wrench’s ability to complete a task in a given amount of time. It is the amount of force exerted by the wrench that is referred to as torque. When the torque is higher, the RPM and IPM are equally high.
What Is The Difference Between An Air Impact Wrench And A Cordless Impact Wrench?
These tools are designed to provide more torque and are superior to the air ratchet wrench. When it comes to torque, the impact wrench typically provides 180 pound-feet, whereas the ratchet typically provides 70 pound-feet. Compared to an air ratchet, a cordless wrench is much more convenient. The primary reason for this is their ability to twist. You’ll find it easier to loosen the nuts because the wrench has a higher torque value. To loosen and tighten low and medium bolts, ratchets are the best tool for the job.
Conclusion
After reviewing the top 5 cordless impact wrench for automotive, we think DEWALT 20V MAX with Detent Pin Cordless Impact Wrench is the best option. This cordless wrench has enough torque to move even the most rusted nuts and bolts, so you don’t have to exert too much effort. You can just let the tool do its job while waiting to complete. It may be a bit heavy and costly, but that is how a quality wrench is produced. If you want to share your thoughts about the impact wrench, you can do so by commenting below.
Richard is a tool expert guy. Especially love to share the experience with others. That’s why he created this blog.