Best Impact Wrenches For Trucks: Top Picks Reviewed

If you're looking for the best impact wrench for trucks, you'll want to consider a few key factors. Firstly, a high torque rating is important, with a minimum of 250 ft-lbs generally recommended for automotive tasks, and 300 ft-lbs or more for larger vehicles like trucks. Impact rate is also crucial, with 1800 IPM or higher being ideal for automotive applications.

When it comes to specific models, the DeWalt 20V Mid-Torque DCF891 is a popular choice, offering 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 800 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. The Makita 40V XGT Mid-Torque GWT07 is another powerful option, delivering 560 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 810 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. For those on a budget, the Ryobi One+ HP 18V Brushless 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench offers good value, with 600 ft-lbs of breakaway torque and 300 ft-lbs of fastening torque, although it may not be suitable for heavy-duty automotive tasks.

Best impact wrenches for automotive work

When looking for the best impact wrenches for automotive work, there are several factors to consider. The torque, battery life, voltage, speed, impact rate, durability, weight, and brand reputation are all important specifications to keep in mind.

For automotive work, a minimum torque of 250 ft-lbs is needed, with 300 ft-lbs required for larger vehicles. An impact rate of 1800 IPM or more is also ideal for automotive applications.

Makita XWT08T 18V LXT

The Makita XWT08T offers a torque of 850 ft-lbs and a breakaway torque of 740 ft-lbs. It is powerful enough to handle automotive tasks and is ergonomically designed for prolonged use. It also features an LED light for improved visibility.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

This impact wrench provides a torque of 1400 ft-lbs and features multiple speed and torque settings. It is a heavy-hitter and is ideal for heavy equipment repair and industrial maintenance applications.

DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Compact 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

The DeWalt Atomic 20V Max is a compact and powerful impact wrench with a torque of 550 ft-lbs. It has a bolt removal mode that prevents over-tightening and spin-off, making it a great choice for working in tight spaces.

Ingersoll Rand ½-inch High-Torque 20V Impact Wrench

The Ingersoll Rand impact wrench delivers a torque of 1500 ft-lbs and features a large, visible mode selector. It is known for its robust performance and durable construction, making it suitable for daily or heavy-duty applications.

DeWalt 20V Max XR 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

The DeWalt 20V Max XR offers excellent nut-breaking power and is easy to spin off nuts. With a torque of 550 ft-lbs, it is a heavy-duty impact wrench suitable for auto, truck, or tractor repair.

Flex ½-in. Mid-Torque 24V Impact Wrench

The Flex 24V impact wrench provides a torque of 350 ft-lbs and features an auto-stop mode to prevent over-tightening. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to handle and manoeuvre in tight spaces.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 3/8-Inch Mid-Torque Impact Wrench

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel is a compact and powerful impact wrench with a torque of 250 ft-lbs. It features a drive control mode to prevent over-tightening and spin-offs, making it a great choice for tight spaces and controlled applications.

These impact wrenches offer a range of features and performance specifications to suit different automotive work needs. It is important to consider the specific requirements of your projects and choose the impact wrench that best meets those needs.

Best impact wrenches for changing car and truck tires

Changing tires can be a challenging task, but with the right tools, it becomes much easier. An impact wrench is a powerful tool that can quickly loosen or tighten lug nuts, making tire changes faster and more efficient. When choosing an impact wrench for changing car and truck tires, there are several factors to consider, including torque, battery life, weight, and design.

Torque

The most important factor when choosing an impact wrench for changing tires is torque. The higher the torque, the more effective the wrench will be at loosening and tightening lug nuts. For car tires, a torque of 250 ft-lbs is sufficient for most applications, while for larger vehicles, such as trucks, a torque of 300 ft-lbs or more may be required.

Battery Life and Voltage

Another crucial factor to consider is battery life. You don't want the battery to die halfway through a tire change, leaving you stranded. Look for models with long battery life and higher voltage, as this generally indicates more power and longer run times.

Weight and Design

The weight and design of the impact wrench are also important, especially when working in tight spaces. A lightweight and compact design will make it easier to manoeuvre the wrench and reduce fatigue during prolonged use. Additionally, look for impact wrenches with ergonomic designs and comfortable grips to further enhance usability.

Speed and Impact Rate

The speed of the impact wrench, measured in RPM (revolutions per minute), and the impact rate, measured in IPM (impacts per minute), also influence the efficiency of the tool. A higher impact rate means you can loosen and tighten nuts faster. For automotive applications, an impact rate of 1800 IPM or more is generally recommended.

Durability and Brand Reputation

When investing in an impact wrench, you want to ensure it is built to last. Look for impact wrenches made from durable materials, such as steel or aluminium, and consider purchasing from reputable brands known for their quality and reliability.

Additional Features

Some impact wrenches offer additional features that can enhance their usability and convenience. These include variable speed control, which allows you to adjust the speed to match the task at hand, and LED lights, which can illuminate the work area in poor lighting conditions.

Recommendations

Several impact wrenches on the market meet the above criteria and are well-suited for changing car and truck tires. Here are some recommendations:

• Makita XWT08T 18V LXT 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench: This impact wrench offers a powerful 850 ft-lbs of breakaway torque and 740 ft-lbs of torque. It is ergonomically designed for prolonged use and features an LED light for improved visibility.
• Milwaukee M12 Fuel Stubby 3/8" Impact Wrench: This ultra-compact impact wrench delivers an impressive 250 ft-lbs of breakaway torque and 1800 IPM, making it ideal for automotive maintenance and light repairs.
• Ryobi One+ HP 18V Brushless 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench: With 600 ft-lbs of breakaway torque and 300 ft-lbs of fastening torque, this impact wrench offers excellent value for money. However, it may not be suitable for heavy-duty automotive tasks.
• DEWALT 20V Max XR Brushless 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench (DCE572B): This impact wrench offers a good balance of torque (550 ft-lbs) and price. It also has an impact rate of 1800 IPM, making it a solid choice for car and truck tire changes.

These recommendations provide a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Remember to consider the factors outlined above when making your decision to ensure you choose the best impact wrench for your specific requirements.

Best 1/2-inch impact wrenches

A 1/2-inch impact wrench is essential for heavy-duty automotive work. Here are some of the best 1/2-inch impact wrenches available:

Makita XWT08T 18V LXT

If you want a powerful 1/2-inch impact wrench, the Makita XWT08T 18V LXT is the one to get. It boasts tightening and loosening torque measurements of over 850 foot-pounds, which is plenty of power for automotive work. It is the heaviest of the bunch, but it feels balanced and comfortable to use. The kit comes with two 5-amp-hour batteries, a charger, and a carrying bag.

Ryobi 18V One+

The Ryobi 18V One+ is an excellent choice for those looking for a combination of performance and value. While it doesn't produce as much torque as some of the other options, it is still capable of tackling all but the most challenging jobs. It is also lightweight and easy on the arms, making it a good option for extended use.

Porter-Cable 20V MAX

The Porter-Cable 20V MAX is a great option if you're looking for a balance of power and affordability. It has adequate loosening torque for most automotive jobs, but the head is a bit long, which can make it tricky to use in small spaces.

DeWalt 20V Max XR

The DeWalt 20V Max XR is one of the top performers in terms of power and comfort. It has impressive torque numbers, and its rugged grip, smooth trigger, and easy-to-understand battery interface make it a pleasure to use. This kit is also frequently on sale, so you can often get it at a great price.

Milwaukee 2767-20 M18 FUEL

The Milwaukee 2767-20 M18 FUEL is a fantastic choice for anyone who is a fan of the Milwaukee brand. It removed the axle nut faster than any other wrench in our test, and it has a comfortable grip for extended use. However, the loosening torque is a bit underwhelming compared to others in its price range.

DeWalt 20V Mid-Torque DCF891

The DeWalt 20V Mid-Torque DCF891 is our top pick for the best overall 1/2-inch impact wrench. It offers a great combination of power and consistency, with 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 800 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. It also has three speed settings and two drive style options. The only downside is its length, which is nearly 7 inches.

Makita 40V XGT Mid-Torque GWT07

If you're looking for the most powerful 1/2-inch impact wrench, the Makita 40V XGT Mid-Torque GWT07 is the one to choose. It has 560 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 810 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, making it the strongest performer in the mid-torque class. It also has advanced features, including four standard speeds and three forward and reverse assist modes.

Flex 24V Mid-Torque FX1451

The Flex 24V Mid-Torque FX1451 is our top pick for the best value 1/2-inch impact wrench. It offers a great combination of power and affordability, with 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 750 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. It also has an isolation zone between the housing and the motor to reduce vibration. The only downside is that it is heavier and less compact than some other options.

DeWalt 20V Max Atomic DCF922

The DeWalt 20V Max Atomic DCF922 is our top pick for the most compact 1/2-inch impact wrench. It has impressive breakaway torque for its size, with 450 ft-lbs, and it has a compact, angled head that ensures the battery doesn't get in the way. It also has two standard and two assist modes for advanced control.

Best 3/8-inch impact wrenches

3/8-inch impact wrenches are a great option for those looking for a balance between strength and precision. Here are some of the best 3/8-inch impact wrenches on the market:

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 3/8-Inch Mid-Torque Impact Wrench

This impact wrench from Milwaukee is a powerful and compact option. It features four mode settings, with the "drive control" mode preventing over-tightening of fasteners and providing smooth operation. The compact body and bright LEDs make it ideal for use in tight and dark spaces. It is available as a tool-only option or as a kit with two 6Ah HO batteries.

Ryobi 3/8-Inch Drive 3-Speed Impact Wrench

The Ryobi 3/8-inch impact wrench offers great value for money. It features a three-speed selector, allowing for precise control to prevent overtightening. With 150 lb-ft of breakaway torque, it has enough power for most tasks. Please note that batteries are sold separately.

Makita Cordless 3/8-Inch Drive Impact Wrench

Makita's 3/8-inch impact wrench delivers high performance in a lightweight package. It features a four-pole motor that produces 155 lb-ft of torque, and the tool weighs only 3.4 pounds with the battery attached. This impact wrench is a good choice for those looking for quality and performance without breaking the bank. Please note that the battery is sold separately.

DeWalt 3/8-Inch Drive Impact Wrench Kit

The DeWalt 20V impact wrench is a compact yet powerful tool. With a 5.5-inch head length and 150 lb-ft of torque, it can handle a variety of tasks. The brushless motor delivers a maximum of 2800 rpm. The kit includes two batteries, a charger, and a durable carrying bag, making it a great choice for those looking for a complete package.

Ingersoll Rand 12V Cordless Impact Wrench Kit

Ingersoll Rand, known for their durable pneumatic tools, also offers a reliable cordless impact wrench. While it has lower torque than the others on this list, at 100 lb-ft, it makes up for it with durability. The housing is designed to withstand impacts and abuse. The kit includes two batteries and a charger, providing a convenient option for those looking for a cordless solution.

Makita Subcompact Cordless 3/8-Inch Drive Impact Wrench

Another great option from Makita is their subcompact impact wrench. The small size allows for access to tight spaces, and it still delivers a respectable 130 lb-ft of torque. Weighing only 2.7 pounds with the battery, it is incredibly lightweight and easy to use. Please note that the battery is sold separately.

Best budget impact wrenches

When it comes to choosing the best budget impact wrenches, there are a few factors to consider, including the intended use, desired features, and price point. Here are some recommendations for the best budget impact wrenches based on performance, price, and user reviews:

Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

The Ryobi 18V One+ impact wrench offers tremendous value for its price. With a price point that's hard to beat, this wrench delivers impressive performance. It can easily remove lug nuts and spin them off, and it's also capable of driving 6-inch lag bolts into pressure-treated lumber. The three-speed settings are useful for avoiding over-tightening fasteners. While it may not be suitable for daily use due to the lack of a brushless motor, it's an excellent choice for homeowners looking to get various projects done around the house.

Porter-Cable 20V MAX

The Porter-Cable 20V MAX is an excellent option if you're looking for a balance between power and price. It offers adequate loosening torque for most automotive jobs, and its performance rivals that of more expensive brands. The only downside is that the head is a bit long, making it tricky to use in tight spaces. However, for a solid impact wrench for your garage that won't break the bank, the Porter-Cable 20V MAX is a great choice.

DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Compact 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

The DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Compact impact wrench is a powerful tool in a small package. Measuring less than 5 inches from tip to tail, it delivers impressive torque and speed. It features bolt removal and fastening modes to prevent over-tightening and spin-off. Additionally, its compact size makes it ideal for working in tight spaces. While it is the loudest model among its competitors, it's an excellent choice for those seeking a powerful yet compact impact wrench.

Flex 24V Mid-Torque FX1451

The Flex 24V Mid-Torque FX1451 offers exceptional value, combining Pro-grade quality with a competitive price. It boasts 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 750 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, making it more powerful than some of its pricier competitors. The speed tops out at 2700 RPM, and it has both forward and reverse assist modes. The only downside is its weight, as it's one of the heavier models on the market. Nonetheless, for those seeking a powerful impact wrench at a reasonable price, the Flex 24V Mid-Torque is a great option.

Ridgid 18V SubCompact 1/2-inch Impact Wrench

The Ridgid 18V SubCompact impact wrench is an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight and compact option for light-duty work. While it may not be suitable for bigger jobs, it can handle tasks like removing lug nuts tightened to 150 foot-pounds. It also features a bolt-tightening mode that prevents over-tightening by shutting down at around 20 foot-pounds. If you're looking for a small and easy-to-handle impact wrench, the Ridgid 18V SubCompact is worth considering.

Frequently asked questions