Most of the time I get technical questions. However, this time I received a critique of the VIAIR® compact air compressor from a reader and thought it would be good to see if any others have had the same issue or have any recommendations for what air compressor is better. I have not personally used the VIAIR and William did not provide the model number. However, we gave several of these away as prizes at the RV Repair Club and had no complaints. I have also found mostly good reviews on Amazon and other online sources.
Additionally, RVtravel.com writer Nanci Dixon has one and loves it, and Mark Polk from RV Education 101 also loves his.
Here is the critique I received:
Dear Dave,
This is not a question. It is a product review. I didn’t know where I am to comment on the Viair air compressor. It is a piece of junk. It is also the most expensive of that type of compressor, by far! There are several that cost about 1/3 of the cost and are better. I bought the Viair and it is poorly built with cheap components. The connectors to the battery terminals are not wide enough and they look like something you would find on a toy! The cheap connector to the tire valve has broken three times! In this case, the most expensive one is not the best—in fact, far from it. —William, 2018 Cardinal 3825 FL Fifth Wheel
Dear William,
I appreciate the comment and would like to see what others have found. Please provide the make and model in your comments to help identify the proper type.
Also, I did a little research and there are several VIAIR models starting with the VIAIR Tire Inflator – VA39WR, which sells for about $180 and provides 150 psi. Top of the line is the VA89, which sells for about $675, provides 200 psi, and has a 2.5-gallon tank so it doesn’t push air just from the unit.
All the reviews on etrailer.com are 5 stars and Amazon has several models featured here, all with 5 stars except the 300 model, which has 4.5 stars.
Readers, let me know what your experience is in the comments below, please.
##RVDT2251
My experience with my Viair compressor has been exceptional. Nothing has ever broken and I personally have never found another brand that works as well. I am not in the “disgruntled” group.
I’ve had no issues with mine although the price is indeed high, so there’s that. Perhaps William has a chinese knock off, just sayin’
I think they are overpriced. Mine will not put 5 lb of air in my rv tire without overheating and shutting down.
I second the comment about the possibility of the original commenter having purchased a knock-off. I’ve had mine for years and it’s been one of the best purchases I’ve ever made for my RV.
Many Tiny 12 volt compressors struggle with higher tire pressures. That may be why there’s so much variation in perceived quality/value. If you’re inflating pressure is 35-45 psi then a small compressor doesn’t work very hard. However, if you’re inflating to 150 psi or higher the smaller units may burn up trying to satisfy demand.
Any discussion must address this issue in order to have a valid discussion.
When I bought a 5th wheel my tire pressure needs went to 125 psi. I bought a small 110 volt portable unit and run the generator to power it while on the road.
I could have tapped into the onboard air suspension system but would have to deal with 50’ of air hose.
Love mine. Added second hose so I can reach all motor home and toad tires from rv battery. Also added small tank and long narrow nozzle for blowing dust out of equipment.
As an extension to my Roybi tool collection, I purchased their lunch box sized air compressor. Works great at the pressures that are needed for my Class C tires. Shout out to Roger for the correct air pressures.
I like having most of my cordless tools using the same battery pack.
I would not trade mine for any of the other cheaper models, I love it. We have been full time for 2-1/2 years without a single issue.
I have been using the Viair products for the past 5 years with great success. I purchased 2 different models for the 2 different motor homes that I owned. They have performed exactly as expected.
I love my Viar for my MH tires (22.5, 100psi). I had an issue with the inflation tip sticking open, and Viar was quick to send a new one at no additional cost. I have a Class A – MH, and with large tires and pressures, you need this type of compressor. If you have a much smaller tire or use, other brands might work. I tried other brands and so far this has been the best. I agree with the rest, maybe an issue with branding or individual use. The price is high, but the small size compressor works great, and easily stored onboard. I also added another flex hose to the kit.
I have a 300 series (six years) and have no complaints whatsoever. It’s compact and does the job. You always have someone who purchases a product like this and who’ll rate it a one star when the majority rate it four or five stars. In their case it may be valid due to a defect or just not what they expected.
I have a 400P and it has worked very well.
Use it on a Class A MH.
105# for steering tires and 100# for rear.
Pumps them up in a matter of minutes if 20# or so are needed in ea. We have 6 tires 22.5 diameter.
Very happy with it and seems to be a quality product.
Got a Harbor Freight version and it works amazingly great and way under $100, BUT, I only need 65 psi. It’s supposed to be good for over 100 psi, so who knows? Also, I had to solder one of the battery clamps when it was brand new out of the box, but that took less time than a trip back to HF.
No complaints from me. Has worked flawlessly since 1st purchased in 2017.
Disappointed – upon first attempted use! NO connections for the hose extension, pot metal filter broke at screw connection when screwed in first time, very small battery connectors. We THOUGHT we bought a quality piece of equipment – had to give up trying to top off our Class A tires! Model: ViAir 450p RV Tire Compressor
I also have a 400P-RV, bought it 4 years ago. We are full timers, and having a 12V compressor is essential. It has worked flawlessly. On some cold mornings, I’ve had to inflate all 8 tires to 80 psi, and the compressor had no trouble with that. The alligator clips aren’t as robust as on jumper cables, but they attach to the battery screws and always stay put. Sometimes the compressor has gotten pretty warm, but never tripped the thermal protector.
I’ve owned my VIAIR 450 for 3 years and have had zero problems with it. It works perfectly to inflate the 130psi tires on my class A motorhome. The quality of the unit appears to be exceptional. I have no idea why the OP thinks his is “a piece of junk”. Maybe he has a knock off?
Let’s see….how many times have i used my Harbor Freight twin to the viair compressor? You know, the one that is perhaps half the price or more of the via air but looks strangely like a via air? About twice. It is available but how many times will you be using one? Which is most cost-efficient. Costco is the place I go if my tpms shows i need air.
I have owned the Viair 450P-RV system for 4 years and it was purchased because I have 365X 22.5″ on the front and 318X22.5 on the rear of our Class A with tag axle. Before buying the Viair I tried 4 different “pancake” style compressors. Each failed to inflate the tires to the 110 psi requirements. The Viair has a 100% duty cycle making it very suitable for the task. Other “portable” systems are 3 times the size. I will admit it can be slow to inflate these larger tires. The only thing better is at a commercial tire company with a hose connected to a 240volt 5 foot tall unit!!
I have the Viair for RV and have used it often, usually for other rvers, for under inflated tires. I’ve also used it for a couple flat rv tires. It works good and I’ve not had any problems in 6 + years.
I have a Dewalt cordless inflator and it has worked flawlessly. All my tires top off at 80 psi and the Dewalt handles it just fine.
I have a Viair 400P that I bought 10 years ago when we were full timing. Airs up my RV tires to 80 lbs never had any problems. I also use it to air up my Jeep tires after 4 wheeling. I’ve had cheaper compressors in the past that never lasted.
Since we have air brakes, I simply installed an air outlet in a compartment, plumbed to the “dry” air tank. A 50 foot air hose will reach all the coach and cargo trailer wheels. Coach tires take 100psi, the air compressor cuts out at 125, so no problem airing up a tire.
I love my Viair 400P-RV! I had several cheap automobile compressors that failed (you get what you pay for). I bought an attachment called the the Viair 00042 Inflation Gun with Digital Gauge to make the job even easier. I always found it to be 100% easy to use and I am the envy of all RV’ers around me. But I don’t like the included carry bag and I’m always on the lookout for just the right toolbox to store and carry it in, so far without success.
I have the VIAIR 400P-RV/40047 Automatic Portable Compressor since June of 2015. Great little compressor that is solidly made. I have put quick connectors to the shrader valves so I don’t have to stand there holding it place. Never had a problem with the battery clamps or the compressor. It’s a solid piece of equipment and compact enough to fit nicely into my RV. Would like to know what model the original poster has. There are some very inexpensive models on Amazon ($70-$90).
Our 2007 Americana 5th wheel came with a viair air compressor and a 3 gal. reserve tank. This was before self leveling sys. were invented. Our rig had an airbag suspension where you could let air out of one side and put air in the other side to level left and right. Our compressor broke down twice. But it wasn’t the compressor, it was the backflow hose went bad. I also had and occasionally have to replace the start relay attached to it bacause it sticks. There about $3.75 at a local auto parts store. Other than that the compressor has worked fine for all these years. This compressor is permanently mounted in our rig. It can also be used to fill tires on the rig.
I have purchased the Harbor Freight version of these that is a 150 psi unit for around 80.00 USD. I use it for airing back up my offroad truck (35″ tires) as well as other vehicles like my Open Range fifth wheel. I was a little nervous at first since I am usually far into the back country of Colorado when I need it. Mine has worked flawlessly. While it does get very hot while in operation, I just allow it to cool between tires and it has been fantastic. The cord is long enough to hook to the battery and still reach trailer tires, etc. It is very portable and since I did not mount it, I throw it in whatever I am driving.
I have the 400 model and am not happy with it. It takes a long time to simply add 5# of air to my class C tires (I need 80#). I like the compact size but, for the price, it’s not worth it in my opinion.
I purchased a VIAIR 300P/30033 Portable Compressor in 2017. The compressor itself seems like a good unit, however the valve stem connector quickly failed and I called their support line and they do not sell a replacement. I replaced with a brass locking coupler. I then noticed the gauge was off by about 8 lbs so now I use a separate gauge to measure pressure..
I have had a Viair 400/40045 for a few years now. I’ve used it on my truck, boat and RV. It does take a while to get to 110 psi on my trailer but has never failed me.
Owning a DRW truck, it is usually a pain topping off the inside tires. The long attachment that comes with the Viair has helped alleviate this problem. I have had no items break & no problem hooking up to the vehicle battery.
I also have a 400P-RV for my 40’DP. At home or while traveling, I’ve never added air when my coach wasn’t plugged into shore power. To add air I have to fire up the coach because it’s 12v and takes a long time. Why not manufacture one that will run off 110v?
If I’m plugged into shore power I’ll still clip ViAir to battery (lithium).
I’ve had two Viair. Both were/are excellent. I had the first one stolen out of my tow vehicle and now have the 400p-RV and absolutely love it. It’s the best I’ve ever owned. Perhaps the commenter had one of the low end models which probably would’t work well on a high (60-120psi) pressure tire.
I’ve had a Viair RV model for at least three years or more and it has performed flawlessly. I use it regularly to air our F350 tires to 80 psi and our Montana fiver tires to 110 psi quickly and effortlessly. Not a single problem with any of the parts. I do wish the power clips were slightly larger, but I could easily change them if it bothered me all that much. Great unit.
I have the Viair 300P. The cheap plastic air hose with built in gauge are both junk. The air gauge is nowhere near accurate. Both replaced. The compressor itself works well for my Jeep tires when airing down off-roading. For my motor home tires, I use its air compressor and a 50′ rubber air hose.
I have the Viair 00088 88P compressor kit. It has worked great over the 3 years I have owned it. No issues at all. I would buy it again.
I bought the same compressor 5 years ago. It has been fine, would buy it again. It was $58 then, now it is $75. At the same time I bought a Viair 6′ extension hose. Also good. Would buy both again. I use it for my dual axle travel trailer and truck.
Thank you, Dave! We bought our Viair 400P-RV 11/12/17 (belated happy birthday little Viair! 🙂 ). We had just bought our first RV, a 43′ DP that ran 295-80R-22.5 tires. We needed a portable air compressor capable of inflating our tires to as much as 120 psi. We have used the Viair to inflate our RV tires, toad tires, farm truck tires, and DW’s Mustang tires routinely, with no problems or complaints. The Viair works just as well on our new 36′ DP (305-70R-22.5 tires) as it did when we first bought it through Amazon, which still offers it https://amzn.to/3QWEVY0. The second air hose has been especially helpful.
I also have the Viair 400P-RV and never had any issues with it or the adapters. I up-graded to a digital inflation gauge for an easier one to read, but otherwise absolutely love it and would recommend to anyone.
I have a Viair #400, which Techno RV recommended for my class C Winnebago View. I have used it two or three times in the last six months with no issues. It works just fine to top off my tires to the correct inflation.
I don’t have a “viair” air compressor so I can’t comment on that. However I spent about $45 a year ago for a cheapo unit from Amazon. I’ve used it dozens of times on my rv and cars. Works just fine and quickly too. For the price I’m happy if it breaks tomorrow I’ll get another one. Here’s the one I got: GSPSCN Portable 12V Air Compressor Pump Digital Display Tire Inflator with LED Flashlight, Heavy Duty Dual Cylinder Tire Pump 150 PSI with Locking Air Chuck for Auto,SUV,Off-Road,Truck,RV,Bike etc https://a.co/d/hA2EiRl
I have the 300p which I bought in Jan 2014. It is still going strong.
The gauge is off so I don’t depend on it
And I did replace the air hose once
I also wish the battery clips were larger (especially the negative).
But overall I am very happy with it and feel it was well worth its purchase price
I purchased my VIAIR 450P-RV in October 2022 for my 2018 Thor Venetian G36 and have never had a problem with it. I give it 5 stars.
After having to travel 200 miles in Alaska with a leaking tire down to half pressure before an opportunity to put air into it, I bought a compressor. First, I bought a cheapy unit and it literally blew itself apart the first time I used it. I then bought a Viair (probably in 2008) and it has worked ever since. It can be slow to air up tires but provides the assurance and insurance I need.
I bought the ViAir 750 (I think that’s the designation) in 2015. Permanant mount, twin compressor and tank. I’ve had it in two motorhomes now and am very satisfied with it.
continuing my comment: I do know what William is saying about the clamps being made cheaply. Seeing that the clamps are very tight, when opening them the part where you place your fingers, the metal will bend it bit…I just grip it up higher, but William. is correct on that.
Oh I also use it to winterize the Seneca does an excellent job of blowing out the water.
One person’s junk is another person’s diamond. I will keep my Viair
VIAIR 400P-RV/40047 model purchased on Amazon Aug20. Came highly recommended. Clunky but effective. Found it satisfactory for topping off RV tires to 66psi, and personal passenger vehicles. Light use (only a few times per year). Never seemed to handle the higher psi well. Over time that pressure has dropped. Yesterday tried to top off wife’s car to 38psi. Took several minutes for each tire. Compressor ran for a short time, and filled for even less time. Something is going bad internally, but not able to find diagnostic info. Manufacturer repair program sounds time consuming and potentially costly. Probably better to research a new alternative. If so, I will look beyond VIAIR.