Best On Board Air Compressor for The Jeep Wrangler

Last Updated on January 31, 2023 by Paul S.

Airing down your tires is part of the Jeep Wrangler game if you want a smoother ride and you want a little more traction.  But after the trail you need something to assist you in filling them back up.  That’s where the on board air compressor comes into play. 

After the trail, when you are ready to get back on the highway you need to air back up so that you can go the speed limit and get home safely.  Using cheap air compressors from box stores may have worked when you were driving a Ford Fiesta but they aren’t going to work for your big Jeep Wrangler tires. 

From our research we have come across it time and again that the cheap ones burn out filling up these tires because they were not made to work so hard and for so long. 

Using an approved off-road compressor will save you time and also not fail on you because they are rated for your tires, air lockers, and more.   

If are in a hurry we have provided our top choice below to save you time.  The top on board air compressor for the Jeep Wrangler is the ARB CKMA12.  ARB is one of the kings in the outdoor world and they made this air compressor to fit into your Jeep Wrangler. This air compressor can handle your 35 inch tires, air lockers, and even campground equipment.  It is the cheaper one on the list but is backed by ARBs warranty.  Click below to determine the price on Amazon!

Top Pick
ARB (CKMP12) 12V High Performance Portable Air Compressor

What we like:

  • Smallest footprint so it can be tucked away inside the vehicle or under the hood!
  • Comes with many different accessories included in the package
  • Budget-friendly out of the list

Cons:

  • Only use this compressor for tires of 35-inch tires. The ARB spec sheet does not mention anything over 35 inch tires even though some reviews may.
Check Out Price On Amazon

If you have a bit of time read on to discover more air compressors.  What we have done is research the internet to find the best on board air compressor that are out there for your Jeep Wrangler.  Why do the research when we have compiled all the info for you??

If you are new to air compressors then we also cover what an on board air compressor is and some more info to help your understanding.

Best On Board Air Compressors for the Jeep Wrangler

ARB CKMA12 On Board Air Compressor

This on board air compressor was manufactured small so that you can fit it into the tiniest of spaces.  There are reviews that even mention they fit it in the cab under the passenger seat of a Jeep JL or even under the hood.

Top Pick
ARB (CKMP12) 12V High Performance Portable Air Compressor

What we like:

  • Smallest footprint so it can be tucked away inside the vehicle or under the hood!
  • Comes with many different accessories included in the package
  • Budget-friendly out of the list

Cons:

  • Only use this compressor for tires of 35-inch tires. The ARB spec sheet does not mention anything over 35 inch tires even though some reviews may.
Check Out Price On Amazon

What it comes with:

  • Air locker solenoid mounting manifold
  • Pressure cutout switch
  • Air filter
  • Full wiring loom
  • Mounting hardware
  • Please note that if you need other items you will have to select the correct package you want which may increase the price. 
  • 6-meter/19 feet air hose
  • Battery clamps
  • Inflation kit for tires and camping gear
  • Durable case for the extra items.  

What it is best for:

  • Air Locker Activation
  • Fast Tire Inflation for tires up to 35 inches.
    • Airs 35 inch tires in about 3 minutes if going from 15 psi – 20 psi and 5:15 minutes if going from 0 – 30 psi.

Specifications for the Compressor:

  • Sealed for moisture and dust resistance
  • Safety valve for over-pressure
  • Thermal protected motor against extreme temperature damage
  • Mounting bracket is anodized to dissipate motor heat and this allows the compressor to be situated on your vehicle mount in different positions
  • 9.9 lbs including accessories, 7.7 lbs for compressor only
  • Dimensions: 5.7 inch (H), 7.5 inch (L), 3.9 inch (W)
  • Supply Voltage 12 volts
  • Current Draw: 14.2 amp under no load
  • Current Draw: 25.2 amp under load
  • Air Flow: @29 psi = 2.34 cfm
  • 100 PSI max pressure

ARB CKMTA12 ARB505 On Board Twin High Performance 12 Volt Air Compressor

This ARB twin on board air compressor is small in size but can suit the need for high volume situations.  It is great for most air powered tools and can also work with the ARB air lockers. 

ARB CKMTA12 '12V' On-Board Twin High Performance Air Compressor, Ideal for Air Lockers Locking Differentials, Tire Inflator, Air Horn, Air Tools and Pneumatic Tools. ARB CKMTA12 '12V' On-Board Twin High Performance Air Compressor, Ideal for Air Lockers Locking Differentials, Tire Inflator, Air Horn, Air Tools and Pneumatic Tools.

What We Like:

  • Most powerful compressor of the list
  • Looks really cool. If setup is right it could be a design feature
  • Can fill up 37 inch tires!


Cons:

  • Most expensive on the list but is more powerful than the ARB CKMA12
  • Larger footprint than the ARB CKMA12 but could still be used under the seats or in various places in the Wrangler.

What it comes with:

  • 12V compressor with 2 compact twin motors
  • Full wiring loom
  • Dash Switch
  • 2 Air filters
  • Mounting bolts and washers
  • Corrosion resistant E-Z deflator tool
    • Comes with ARB protective pouch

What it does not come with:

What it is best for:

  • Tire Inflation up to 33 inch tires to 37 tires
    • Inflates a 37 inch tire in 1:40 minutes from 15 psi – 30 psi and 2:47 minutes from 0 psi to 30 psi
  • Air locker activation when used with the ARB air locker manifold kit

Specifications for the Compressor:

  • Sealed for moisture and dust resistance
  • Safety valve for over-pressure
  • 100% duty Cycle
  • Teflon impregnated carbon fiber piston seals
  • The mounting bracket is anodized to dissipate motor heat
  • 12V
  • 19.4 lbs including accessories/packaging
  • 17.4 lbs compressor only
  • Dimensions: 4.1 inch (H), 10.9 inch (L), 7.5 inch (W)
  • Supply Voltage 12 volts
  • Current Draw: 28 amp under no load
  • Current Draw: 50 amp under load
  • Air Flow: @29 psi = 4.68 cfm
  • 150 psi max load

Onboard Air Compressor With Tank

Viair 10005 Heavy Duty Onboard Air System

The 10005 air compressor system manufactured by Viair is great for tire maintenance and small pneumatic tools.  Viair has a great history of air compressor systems and for over 25 years has served the world in many different business sectors.

What makes this different than the ARB air compressors is that this one is used in unison with an air tank that dampens pulses and releases air at a more consistent pressure.  The air can also be made readily available at times when you know you are going to use it, thus saving even more time.  

Viair 10005 Heavy Duty Onboard Air System Viair 10005 Heavy Duty Onboard Air System

Why We Like It:

  • Not the most expensive on the list
  • Viair specializes in air compression systems
  • Air tank allows for compressed air to be ready at any time


Cons:

  • Takes up more space in your Wrangler
  • The air tank will also extend the time for initial installation. 


What it comes with:

  • 2.5 Gallon, 6 port VIAIR air tank
  • 400C Model VIAIR compressor, 33% duty cycle compressor
  • The Air compressor comes with a thermal overload protector
  • 36 feet of airline
  • 35 foot coil hose with clip on chuck
  • 1 ¼” NPT quick connect coupler (F)
  • 1 Dash panel gauge with switch
  • Pressure switch with relay (110 PSI-on, 150 PSI-off)
  • A reducer (⅛” NPT F to ¼” NPT M)
  • 1 ¼” NPT – 175 PSI safety valve
  • 1 ¼” NPT drain cock
  • 1 ¼” NPT compression fittings
  • 1 4″ strip of continuous grommet material
  • 1 20′ section of 12 gauge wire with inline fuse holder
  • Electrical connectors
  • 1 Accessory airline
  • Owner’s manual

What it does not come with:

  • Mounting equipment
  • Air Source Relocation Kit

What it is best for:

  • Tire Inflation up to 35 inch tires
  • Air locker activation but a pressure regulator will be required

Specifications for the Compressor:

  • Sealed for moisture and dust resistance
  • 33% duty cycle at 100 psi
  • Motor voltage is 12 volts
  • 2.5 gallon air tank size:  33 inch x 12.5 inch x 12.5 inch
  • Shipping weight is 30.15 lbs
  • Dimensions: 6.77 inch (H), 8.86 inch (L), 3.94 inch (W)
  • Max amp draw – 26 Amps
  • 2.54 cfm max airflow
  • 150 psi max load

Cons Explained

  • While this system is not the most expensive of options it does require the most space in your Wrangler.  As we all know the Wrangler is lacking in terms of space and the 33 inch long and 12.5 inch high air tank will take up a lot of your space in the cargo area of the Wrangler.  We have seen tanks installed underneath the vehicle but we are not quite sure that is the best location for something under so much pressure while you are offroading.

For great installation and air fill up times check out their website for further information.  Viaircorp.com

They also have a great installation video here:

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is An On Board Air Compressor?

An on board air compressor is a compressor that is installed to fit onto your rig for its lifetime.  Typically, once installed it’s not going to come out unless you want to spend the time to uninstall and install the system which could take a very long time.

Differences Between On Board Air Compressor And Portable Air Compressors

On board air compressors differ from portable air compressors first by their lack of portability.  Portables can easily be swapped from vehicle to vehicle and there is little setup time.  In terms of capacity, the on board systems will typically outperform the portable systems because they are larger and built to perform. 

This performance by the on board air compressors does come with a price tag, but typically you are going to have your on board air compressor last longer. 

Portable air compressors tend to not be able to work continuously without burning up their engine after a couple of years as these machines run very hot while trying to get air to your large tires.

Another major difference about on board systems is that it comes with an air tank.  This air tank helps regulate the flow of air and does not put so much pressure on the compressor’s engine.  Tire fill up time is reduced as well.  Imagine doing a week full of trail days.  Filling up all four tires in under 8 minutes compared to 20+ minutes could be a game-changer for those that can afford the convenience.

Conclusion For Best On Board Air Compressor for Jeep Wrangler

Getting the best air compressor for your Jeep Wrangler is going to help in saving you time and even money! 

You will save time by getting your tires aired up quickly and safely.  But also by not having to go out to the store each time you burn up another air compressor.  Filling 35 inch tires can be tough on air compressors!

You will save money by not buying cheap air compressors over and over.

Our top choice for the best on board air compressor for the Jeep Wrangler is going to be the ARB CKMA12 because of its value, reputation, and fit for Wrangler.  To see more info on it check out the amazon link below!

Top Pick
ARB (CKMP12) 12V High Performance Portable Air Compressor

What we like:

  • Smallest footprint so it can be tucked away inside the vehicle or under the hood!
  • Comes with many different accessories included in the package
  • Budget-friendly out of the list

Cons:

  • Only use this compressor for tires of 35-inch tires. The ARB spec sheet does not mention anything over 35 inch tires even though some reviews may.
Check Out Price On Amazon

For more information and photos on ARB compressors check out their website: arbusa.com