Tools

Keeping track of your tire pressure is a simple but vital way to keep your car running well. With the proper tire pressure, your vehicle will have better traction and fuel mileage. Furthermore, the correct tire pressure can be the difference between a flat tire and a safe drive home in winter conditions. This is why you need to think about tire pressure and make sure you have the right amount.
So, how do you measure tire pressure? With a handy tool, the tire pressure gauge. These handy tools give you an accurate reading of your tire pressure so that you can add or remove air from the tire. There are a few different types of tire pressure gauges, but they all work the same. Read on to learn more about tire pressure gauges and which one is the right fit for you.

Things to Consider When Shopping for Tire Pressure Gauges
While tire pressure gauges are specific products, they’re not all the same. You’ll come across different types, PSI ranges, and heads. For this reason, you need to carefully consider the features of each product before making a choice.
Type
We’ll start with the different types of tire pressure gauges. While there are variations of each type, the three main types are stick/pencil, digital, and dial. While every tire pressure gauge works, each product has unique strengths and weaknesses.
Stick
Stick tire pressure gauges are the most straightforward. They’re small tools that give you a pressure reading towards the bottom of the device. Once you hook it up to a tire, a small strip will pop out from the handle. The number that it lands on is the PSI. These tire Pressure gauges are also the most affordable because the design is simple.
Digital
Digital tire pressure gauges are well-rounded products. They’re comfortable to hold and give you a digital reading on the screen. These tools require batteries, but they’re easy to use in the dark and give you a quick reading. Plus, some digital products are priced in the same range as stick tire pressure gauges.
Dial
Tire pressure gauges that use a dial to give you a pressure reading. The dial is round like a clock and uses a needle to display the PSI. Furthermore, dial tire pressure gauges are the most feature-rich. Sometimes these products include bleeder valves, dual-scale dials, and shock-resistant components. While some products come with a lot of features, it drives the price up. Compared to stick and digital products, these tire pressure gauges are more expensive.
PSI Range
The whole purpose of a tire pressure gauge is to give you an accurate PSI rating, so you need to choose one that can read. The average tire pressure gauge will provide you with a range between 60 and 120 PSI. This covers the needs of most passenger cars and spare tires. Still, if you’re shopping for a heavy truck or motorcycle, you’ll need a more specific range. Some tire pressure gauges go down to 0 and up to 250 PSI.
Heads
When looking at tire pressure gauges, you’ll come across some products that have more than one head. If you’re shopping for a passenger car or light truck, like a pickup truck or SUV, you don’t need to worry about this. On the other hand, if you need a tire pressure gauge for heavy-duty applications, it’s handy to have a product with more than one head. You’ll always have the right tool for the job.
Once you know what to look for, finding the right tire pressure gauge becomes straightforward. Still, you need to know which products are the best. We’re going to take you through the ten best tire pressure gauges to help you narrow down your options.

Top 10 Best Tire Pressure Gauges 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: We love the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge because of its simple features. Anyone can use it, even without experience, and it provides an accurate reading.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Digital
PSI: 0-150
Heads: 1
The AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is one of the most well-rounded tire pressure gauges. It features a non-slip ergonomic handle for comfort, and the LCD screen is easy to read. It emits a subtle blue light to help you read the gauge in dark conditions. This product also features another blue light by the nozzle, which illuminates the area you’re working on. When working in the dark, this makes it easy to see.
This product also comes with a handful of different settings. You’ll be able to get readings for PSI, bar, Kg/cm2, and kPa. Regardless of the application, you’ll be able to trust that you get an accurate reading with this product. It also boasts a high operating temperature, which makes the product applicable in most situations.
What Sets it Apart
What makes this product unique is the LCD screen and blue light projected by the tool’s head. While most digital products have an LCD screen, this product’s screen is more balanced. The blue light is easy on people’s eyes, which makes it a nice touch. You’ll be able to make accurate readings in the dark, without straining your eyes during the day.
Things to Consider
The AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge performs well, but the auto-shutoff feature turns the LCD screen off too fast. Reviews suggest that the product turns off between 10-15 seconds after use. For some, this is too short to see the reading on the screen.
If you like the design, but prefer a tool that doesn’t shut off as fast, the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge is a great alternative. The design is almost identical, but the auto-shutoff starts after 30 seconds.
Who It’s For
The AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is an excellent choice for anyone that needs a simple tire pressure gauge. It works on most vehicles, aside from heavy machinery, making it easy to get an accurate reading.

Pros
Balanced blue-lit LCD screen
Ergonomic handle
Blue light to illuminate what you’re working on
Four different settings

Cons
Auto shutoff happens too soon

2. Best Premium Pick: Topeak SmartGauge

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Why we like it: The Topeak SmartGauge can read high-pressure tires, up to 250PSI, which is why we love it.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Digital
PSI: 0-250
Heads: 1
The Topeak SmartGauge is a premium tire pressure gauge. It has a PSI range between 0-250, which is more than most products around. It’s also well-made, with a 360° rotating head with a thick valve stem that prevents leaks. The LCD screen displays PSI or bar and turns off after thirty seconds to prevent the battery from draining. You can also use this tool to reduce tire pressure with the air release bottom.
What Sets it Apart
The Topeak SmartGauge is unique because it’s not made like other digital tire pressure gauges. Most digital tire pressure gauges on the market have a similar look and shape. While they’re designed well, Topeak went the extra mile to create a product that outperforms the competition.
Things to Consider
Tire pressure gauges are typically budget-friendly items. Unfortunately, this one isn’t. Compared to other products, the cost is higher. This is because there are premium features, and it lasts longer, but some people don’t need premium tire pressure gauges. Plus, it doesn’t come with a light to illuminate dark areas.
Suppose you’re shopping for a more affordable product, but like the digital style, the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is a great alternative. It’s more budget-friendly and includes a light.
Who It’s For
The Topeak SmartGauge is best suited for people with passenger cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. For these vehicles, it’s one of the best tire pressure gauges money can buy. Still, it’s not ideal for heavy-duty applications, and it’s best suited for motorcycles and bicycles.

Pros
Wide PSI range between 0-250
Displays PSI and bar
The smart-head rotates up to 360 degrees
Comfortable handle

Cons
Expensive
No light on the nozzle

3. Best Budget Pick: EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is one of the most affordable digital tire pressure gauges, which is why we love it. For the cost of a stick-style tool, you can have a digital one instead.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Digital
PSI: 0-150 PSI
Heads: 1
The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is a simple digital tire pressure gauge that gets the job done. The LCD screen gives you an accurate reading and turns itself off in thirty seconds to conserve battery life. The screen also offers readings in PSI, bar, kPa, and Kg/cm2. This tire pressure gauge also features a comfortable ergonomic handle and nozzle light to help you see what you’re doing at night.
What Sets it Apart
The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is unique because of the price. Most digital tire pressure gauges cost more than stick-style tools but not this one. The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is in a similar price bracket as most high-quality stick-style products. Plus, it performs as well as many products sold for more.
Things to Consider
The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge has some durability issues. While the cost is low, you get what you pay for. Compared to other digital tire pressure gauges, the battery life is shorter, and the construction is flimsy. Sure, the price is low, but a premium product like the Topeak-SmartGauge is a better option for long-term use.
Who It’s For
The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is an excellent choice for people that don’t need to use a tire pressure gauge often. If you live in a location that doesn’t have a lot of weather variation, this tool is a great choice. It doesn’t last as long as other devices, but if you are only using it once in a while, you can save some money with this simple tool.

Pros
Easy to read LCD screen
Lighted nozzle
Manual and automatic shutoff

Cons
Short battery life
Less durable than other digital tire pressure gauges

4. Best for Night Time: TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge

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Why we like it: We love the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge because it’s a simple digital tool that doesn’t cost a fortune. Plus, while the price is low, it performs as well as competitors.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Digital
PSI: 0-100
Heads: 1
The TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge is a reliable tool. It comes with everything you need right out of the box, including the batteries that last for an average of 18 months. The LCD screen is simple to read and delivers an accurate reading moments after using the tool. Furthermore, there is a blue light next to the head that illuminates the area you’re working on.
This product also gives you a lot of options. It provides accurate readings for PSI, bar, kPa, and kg/cm2. Bar is 0-7, kPa is 0-700 and kg/cm2 is 0-7. For this reason, the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge is useful for most automotive applications, including larger vehicles and agricultural equipment
What Sets it Apart
What sets this product apart is its ability to perform as well as high-end products. It comes with everything you could want in a tire pressure gauge but doesn’t cost a fortune.
Things to Consider
While the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge performs like a high-end digital product, it’s not made like one. Upon taking the product apart to change the batteries, shoppers have noticed that the construction is flimsy at best. While it works like a professional tool, it doesn’t have the same lifespan as one. If you’re looking for a similar product that’s more durable, the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is a great alternative.
Who It’s For
The TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge is an excellent choice for anyone that needs a digital tire pressure gauge for occasional use. While it can be used often, the battery and lifespan of the product are improved if it’s not used as frequently. For someone that needs to check their tire pressure a handful of times each year, this product is perfect.

Pros
Well-lit LCD screen
Ergonomic handle
Batteries included
Four different measurement options

Cons
Not as durable as a high-end digital tire pressure gauge

5. Best Dial Gauge: TireTek Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: We love the TireTek Tire Pressure Gauge because it’s one of the most straightforward products to use. You don’t need any batteries, hoses, or select settings. Simply connect it to your tire, and you’re ready to go.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Dial
PSI: 0-60
Heads: 1
The TireTek Tire Pressure Gauge is a simple dial-style product. The brass head is on a 45° angle, giving you plenty of room to work with. There’s a pressure release system to remove air from tires, and it’s comfortable to hold. The dial is covered with rubber grooves that keep it from slipping out of your hand. While the product is compact, it’s efficient. It’s accurate to +/- 2%, even without a hose.
What Sets it Apart
Most dial-based tire pressure gauges use a hose, but TireTek went a different route. This was a great move because the air has a more direct path to the dial, which increases accuracy. Plus, without the hose, TireTek can keep the cost of the product lower than most dial-based products.
Things to Consider
The TireTek Tire Pressure Gauge works well, but something is missing. Most dial tire pressure gauges come with glow in the dark dials, which help you see in the dark. Unfortunately, this product is only useful if you have the appropriate lighting. If you need a product with similar accuracy and a glow in the dark dial, the JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge is a great alternative.
Who It’s For
The TireTek Tire Pressure Gauge is the perfect choice for someone who needs a simple and accurate tire pressure gauge, especially if you don’t want to deal with any complications. You don’t need to worry about any hoses or batteries because it’s as easy to use as most stick-style tire pressure gauges. While it’s less useful for heavy-duty applications, anyone with a passenger vehicle will benefit from this too.

Pros
Brass material
Rubber grooves improve grip
Accurate to +/- 2%
The dial is easy to read

Cons
Not suitable for heavy-duty applications
The lack of hose makes it uncomfortable to hold in some situations

6. Best Heavy-Duty: AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: We love the AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge because it’s one of the best products for heavy-duty applications.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Digital
PSI: 0- 230
Heads: 2
The AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is one of the few heavy-duty tire pressure gauges you can find. It has two stainless steel heads that fit traditional passenger vehicles and heavy-duty vehicles like RVs. The measurement is displayed on a backlit LCD screen, and the handle is ergonomic. It also features a flashlight.
What Sets it Apart
The AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is unique for a few reasons. First and foremost, it runs on AAA batteries, which are more accessible than watch batteries to replace. Secondly, it comes with two heads, one of which fits in heavy-duty tires.
Things to Consider
The AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is excellent, but it’s not for everyone. If you own a passenger car or motorcycle, you might want to consider an alternative like the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge. It’s made by the same company but works better for passenger cars and motorcycles.
Who It’s For
If you have an RV or a different heavy truck, you should consider this tire pressure gauge. While other products can work, the heavy-duty design and two heads on this product do a much better job.

Pros
Comes with two heads
Suitable for heavy-duty vehicles
Powered by AAA batteries
Comes with a flashlight
Comfortable, ergonomic handle

Cons
Best suited for heavy-duty applications
Larger and more difficult to store than compact products

7. Easiest to Read: Vondior Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: The Vondior Tire Pressure Gauge is an affordable dial tire pressure gauge that just works.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Dial
PSI: 0-100
Heads: 1
The Vondior Tire Pressure Gauge is one of the best dial-based products available. The dial gives an accurate reading, and the text is large enough for anyone to read. While the product is simple to use, it’s also durable. It’s made with brass parts and features a braided hose with a 360° swivel. The swivel helps the valve stem remain connected to the tool, which prevents air leaks.
What Sets it Apart
The Vondior Tire Pressure Gauge is unique because of the hose. It’s one of the more flexible hoses you can find but what makes it better than similar products is the sealing. Tire pressure gauges have issues with hoses blowing out after frequent use, but this product is proven to last, hose, and all.
Things to Consider
While this tire pressure gauge performs as well as the next one, the PSI range is limited. While 100 PSI is excellent for a dial-based product, there are alternatives with a better range. For example, the Topeak-SmartGauge has a range between 0-250.
Who It’s For
Vondior is an excellent company that takes pride in its work. This product is no exception, and it’s a superb dial tire pressure gauge to consider. Still, it’s best suited for people that drive passenger cars, light trucks, and motorcycles. While it works for larger vehicles, the low PSI range is restricting.

Pros
Glow in the dark dial
360° swivel and durable valve stem prevents air leaks
Braided hose
Easy to read

Cons
The durability is questionable
Best suited for motorcycles and bicycles

8. Best High-Performance: JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: The JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge is excellent because it’s accurate. With an accuracy rating of plus or minus 1.5%, it’s one of the most accurate tire pressure gauges available.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Dial
PSI: 0-100 PSI
Heads: 1
The JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge is an above-average tool. It comes with a ten-inch hose that gives you plenty of wiggle room, and the dial is encased in rubber to improve your grip. Everything on the dial glows in the dark, and the two-inch needle makes it easy to read. This tire pressure gauge also comes with a 360° swivel to prevent leaks and a 45° extended tip. All of the metal parts are also made with brass, which is more durable than most types of steel and plastic.
What Sets it Apart
The JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge offers accuracy that’s tough to compete with. Most tire pressure gauges are accurate by plus or minus five PSI. That’s not terrible, but this product is accurate by plus or minus 1.5%. With this tool, you get a measurement that’s 3.5% more accurate than most of the competition. Furthermore, ANSI has certified this product.
Things to Consider
The JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge is not perfect. The biggest flaw is the hose. While it’s durable, the best tire pressure hoses are braided. A braided hose uses wire that’s woven around the hose. Twisting wire around the hose bolsters its strength and integrity, plus it prevents kinks.
If you love everything about this product but prefer a braided hose, the Rhino USA Heavy Duty Tire Pressure Gauge is a great alternative. Many of the features are the same, but it comes with a braided hose.
Who It’s For
If you live in an area with many seasons and dramatic temperature changes, this tire pressure gauge is the right fit. The amount of pressure your tires need varies based on the conditions they’re operating in. In winter months, you need to make sure you have an accurate reading for performance and traction. With a PSI rating within plus or minus 1.5%, this tool is as precise as they come.

Pros
Accurate to plus or minus 1.5%
Glow in the dark dial
Large text that’s easy to read
Brass material
360° swivel and 45° head
Rubber casing for a comfortable grip

Cons
Difficult to store in one piece
The hose can be shorter

9. Best Two-Pack: AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge (2 Pack)

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Why we like it: We like the AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge because of the value. Getting two products for the price of one is something we love to see.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Stick
PSI: 10-75
Heads: 1
The AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge is simple, budget-friendly, and efficient in most situations. The package comes with two tools, made from premium stainless steel. The devices feature a four-sided pressure indicator, which displays the PSI in easy-to-read digits. Furthermore, this product also offers readings for PSI, kPa, and bar. The head fits most tires, excluding heavy trucks, and there is a pressure release valve.
What Sets it Apart
The AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge is unique because you get two products for the price of one. There are also other packages, with the largest one offering five tools. While the amount of devices you get for the value is excellent, what sets this product apart on its own is the thick valve stem connector. Unlike similar products, there are almost no air leaks.
Things to Consider
A two-pack is excellent, but there is a reason the cost is low. Compared to a product like the Milton S-920, the design is less durable. Stainless steel is excellent, but machined parts and brass are superior.
Who It’s For
The AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge is an excellent choice for anyone that works with these tools frequently. For example, if you work in an automotive environment, keeping plenty of tire pressure gauges around is handy. Plus, for the value, getting two or more products is better than one.

Pros
Comes with 2 or 5 tools
Thick valve stem for fewer air leaks
Pressure release valve to reduce air pressure
Readings for bar, PSI, and kPa

Cons
Not as durable as a machined stick tire pressure gauge

10. Best Stick-Style Gauge: Milton S-920

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Why we like it: If you’re looking for a no-frills tire pressure gauge that does not require battery power, this is one of your best choices.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Stick
PSI: 10-70
Heads: 1
The Milton S-920 is a great, well-made, pencil tire pressure gauge. The head is designed to fit on vehicles with a tire nozzle of 1/16″. For most passenger cars, motorcycles, and bikes, the head size is a perfect fit. The PSI range is also high enough for low and high-pressure tires, making it well-rounded. Also, while the product is small, the stick with the PSI measurement is easy to read.
What Sets it Apart
The Milton S-920 is unique because of its machined parts. Many of Milton’s competitors use standard features, which come from molds. The process of machining parts is complicated and costly, but it produces a durable tool. Machining means that the device is designed with precision in all areas.
Things to Consider
This product works well for the design. As a traditional pencil-style tool, it works, but it lacks the advanced features that dial and digital products. While this is fine for some, it’s a hindrance for others. Suppose you need a more advanced tool, the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge. It’s in the same price range but offers additional features.
Who It’s For
The Milton S-920 is an excellent choice for anyone that needs a traditional and straightforward tire pressure gauge. You don’t need to worry about batteries, dials, or any complicated features. While you’ll miss out on things like an LCD screen, you gain reliability in almost any situation. Overall, it’s a great tool to keep in your car.

Pros
Made with machined parts
Reliable in all conditions
Fits in your pocket

Cons
No flashy features

Everything You Need to Know About Tire Pressure Gauges

Tire pressure gauges are specific products, but there is more than meets the eye. Some products won’t cut it for particular applications or vehicles, so you must have the right tool for the job. To help you narrow down your options, we’ll take you through a few shopping tips.
Shopping Based on Your Vehicle
The best way to determine which tire pressure you need is to consider the vehicle you drive or operate. There are many vehicle classes, but most cars have the same valve, excluding some bicycles and heavy trucks. So, we’re going to take you through a handful of vehicle types and suggest the best tire pressure gauges for that vehicle.
Large Trucks and Agricultural Equipment
We’ll start with large trucks and agricultural equipment. If you drive a large truck, like an RV, you’ll need a tire pressure gauge that handles high pressure. Furthermore, you’ll need a tire pressure gauge with more than one head size. Unfortunately, as tires get larger, the valve you put air in changes in size. So, for larger vehicles, we recommend a product like the AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge.
The AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge comes with a handful of unique features that make it work for larger vehicles. It has two different head sizes, so you can still use it for passenger cars and bicycles.
Light Trucks and Passenger Cars
If you have a light truck or passenger car, we have good news for you; you have many options. Passenger cars and light trucks have standard tire valves, so you don’t need to worry about needing more than one head. Plus, the PSI rating is typically between 10-60, which is standard for most products.
Still, we recommend the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge for passenger cars because it’s affordable and straightforward. It fits right in your glove box, works in the dark, and gives you an accurate reading.
If you don’t need anything fancy and prefer to keep a small tool at home, and in your car, the AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge is a great choice. You can get a pack of two or five, and they’re simple to use.
Motorcycles and Bicycles
Motorcycles and bicycles are where things get tricky. There are a lot of different tire types and valve sizes, so you need to shop carefully. Plus, the angles you’ll need to fit the tool into can pose a problem for larger tire pressure gauges.
For this reason, we recommend the Topeak SmartGauge. While it works for most vehicles, heavy trucks aside, the PSI range and 360° rotating head make it perfect for motorcycles and bicycles.
How to Check Your Tire Pressure (Tips for Using Tire Pressure Gauges)
Having a tire pressure gauge is a great way to start but using one isn’t always easy. Some products are more complicated than others, which can leave you frustrated if you’re not using it properly.
How to Determine Your Vehicle’s Prime Tire Pressure
Getting a PSI reading is excellent, but if you don’t know what your tire pressure should be, it won’t be of much use. To determine how much pressure your tire needs, check the driver’s side door (for cars) and the owner’s manual (for motorcycles). There will be a few ratings listed, which change based on the temperature.
Stick
The stick tire pressure gauge is the most straightforward tool you can use. For a product like the Milton S-920, simply connect the head of the device to your tire’s valve. Once the tool is connected, a stick at the bottom will shoot out from the handle of the tool. The number closest to the handle is the PSI rating. To reset the device, push the stick back into the handle and repeat the process.
Digital
Digital tire pressure gauges are more complex than stick tire pressure gauges, but the concept is similar. The first step is turning the device on. Most products, like the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge, have a button next to the LCD screen. Once the device is on, simply connect the nozzle to the valve and make sure you don’t hear any air hissing out.
The good news about digital tire pressure gauges is that they give you a precise reading that’s simple to see. Simply wait until the reading is displayed on the screen and disconnect the nozzle. Also, most products will turn off on their own after you use it.
Dial
Dial tire pressure gauges, like the JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge, seem complicated, but they’re easy to use. If the product comes with a hose, simply connect the hose to your tire’s valve. If it doesn’t have a hose, you can connect the head of the tool directly to the tire nozzle.
Once the tool is connected, you’ll notice that the needle will move. Wait until the needle stops moving and take a look at the number it lands on. That’s your PSI rating. You should also know that on most dial tire pressure gauges, you can remove the hose to avoid kinks and get more accurate readings.
Looking for New Tires?
We have you covered! Make sure to check out our manufacturer-specific tire guides by clicking here.
Tire Pressure Gauge FAQ

What Should My Tire Pressure Be?
If you can’t find the information for your vehicle, most modern cars recommend a PSI between 32 and 35 for the winter months. Still, this is a specific rating for each car, so you should always consult your owner’s manual for tire pressure-related questions.
If you need a better way to inflate your tires, make sure to read the rundown of our favorite tire inflators for your garage.
Can I Add More PSI than Recommended?
It might seem like a great idea to get some extra pressure in your tires, but this isn’t the case. If you go over the recommended air pressure, you risk blowing out on the road or popping your tire. If the pressure build-up is too high, you can damage the tire’s tube, which holds the air. Replacing one of those is not cheap.
Do All Tires Have the Same Valve/Nozzle?
Unfortunately, some tires don’t have the same nozzle or valve. The good news is that most tires on passenger cars do, so you don’t need to worry. The only time you’ll need a unique tire pressure gauge is if you have a motorcycle or heavy-duty vehicle. Plus, most motorcycles have the same valve as passenger cars anyway.
Final Words
Tire pressure gauges are a must-have tool. If you’ve noticed that your fuel mileage has decreased or your tire looks a little empty, it’s time to consider a tire pressure gauge. You’ll be able to get an accurate measurement of your tire’s PSI so that you can add or remove air accordingly.
Luckily, tire pressure gauges are affordable items. Even the best tire pressure gauges won’t cost too much, so feel free to experiment with a few tools until you find one that you’re comfortable with! More

Traveling in an RV is a statement all on its own. It’s a way to tell yourself and others that it’s not just about the destination but about the journey. But you won’t enjoy the journey very much if you’re hot and sweaty through most of it. That’s why it’s so important to have a dependable air conditioner installed in your recreational vehicle.
We’ve put together this guide to cover everything that you need to know about air conditioning for your RV. Before getting to our recommendations of the best products, let’s find out what you need to know before making that decision for yourself.

What You Need to Know Before Buying an RV Air Conditioner
There are a few pieces of information that you need to keep in mind when buying a new RV air conditioner.
Types of RV Air Conditioners
There are three main types of RV air conditioners to choose from: rooftop, window and portable.
Rooftop RV Air Conditioners
The most commonly used RV air conditioners are rooftop-mounted ones. They are the most powerful type of ACs on average. Another benefit they offer is that they sit on the roof, which means that you save space within your RV.
There are two ways in which rooftop RV air conditioners are powered. Some may have a control panel that’s also mounted on the ceiling. Others will have a wire that connects the AC to the thermostat in your vehicle.
The Dometic Brisk II is a great rooftop RV air conditioner.
There are two types of rooftop RV air conditioners. Non-ducted RV ACs blow air out of their own body. Ducted rooftop ACs, as you’ve probably guessed by now, are connected to the air ducts in your RV. This ensures an even distribution of air throughout the vehicle. The Dometic Penguin II is a great ducted RV air conditioner.
Window RV Air Conditioners
Just like rooftop RV air conditioners, window ACs conserve space within your RV. They will, however, block the view you have from one of your windows because that’s where they sit and pull warm air out of your recreational vehicle.
The challenge with finding a good window RV air conditioner is getting one that’s the right size. Different RVs have windows that are of different sizes. You will have to find an AC that matches the dimensions of your window to make it work.
Another drawback of using this type of RV air conditioner is that they block your window. So make sure that you have other ways to get natural light into your RV before buying one.
The Home Labs HME020003N is a product to consider if you’re looking for a window-mounted RV air conditioner.
Portable RV Air Conditioners
Let’s say you don’t want to block light coming through your window and don’t want to lug a big AC up onto your RV’s roof. You don’t have to consign yourself to warm, sweaty days in your RV. You can, instead, use a portable air conditioner to cool your vehicle.
Portable RV air conditioners are great because the installation process is, well, barely a process at all — especially compared to the other kinds of RV ACs. An AC like the SereneLife SLACHT108 can be brought into your RV and connected to the power for quick cooling.
Portable RV air conditioners are usually not as powerful as their roof- and window-mounted counterparts. They also take up space on the floor, which is an important factor to take into consideration.
RV Air Conditioner Size and Weight
Another factor to take into account is the size and weight of the air conditioner you’re purchasing. A low-profile RV air conditioner like the Dometic Penguin II is designed to be aerodynamic and creates less drag as a result.
The weights of RV air conditioners run the gamut. Rooftop ACs, as mentioned earlier, tend to be on the heavier side. There are, however, lighter RV ACs out there. The Frigidaire White Energy Star and Black + Decker BPACT10WT are two great lightweight RV air conditioners.
How many BTUs Do you Need?
The most important metric that determines your choice will be what’s expressed as British Thermal Units, or BTU for short. This is a measure of how well an AC can cool a particular space. Most RVs measure between 200 and 300 ft, so even the smallest option can adequately cool your average RV.
Choosing the capacity of your RV air conditioner is not an exact science. If you own a supersized RV, you will want an air conditioner that has more than 13,500 BTU, like the Dometic Brisk II or Airxcel Mach 15. These can easily cool RVs up to 1,000 square feet in size.
If you own a smaller RV, your BTU requirements are also smaller. RVs up to 500 square feet in size can use air conditioners with a capacity of between 8,000 and 12,000 BTU. The Black + Decker BPACT10WT is an air conditioner that falls in that range.
Those who own standard-sized RVs, up to 300 square feet in size, can make do with an air conditioner that’s between 5,000 and 7,000 BTU. The Frigidaire White Energy Star is a great 5,000 BTU RV air conditioner.
With these key concepts in mind, let’s get into our list of great RV air conditioners that can keep you cool as you pile the summer road.

Top 10 Best RV Air Conditioners 2020
1. Best Overall RV Air Conditioner: Dometic Brisk

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Why we like it: The Dometic Brisk II is a powerful RV air conditioner that can be used for both heating and cooling.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 15,000 BTU
Installation type: Rooftop (ducted/non-ducted)
Weight: 74 pounds
Dimensions: 29.18 x 27.23 x 12.7 inches
The Dometic Brisk II covers almost every base there is when it comes to RV air conditioners.
The first question that springs to mind about a new air conditioner unit is whether it is easy to install. The Dometic Brisk II weighs 74 pounds, so you may need a step ladder and a helping hand to get it onto your RV. But once you’ve done that, it is just a 30-minute job to get it up and running.
Once the unit is atop the RV, start by bolting down the AC by lining it up with the holes on the vehicle. You can then attach the wires to get the unit powered and running. It’s really that simple.
With less powerful AC units, it can be hard to get the temperature in your vehicle under 80 degrees if it’s 95+ degrees outside. This RV air conditioner, however, can maintain temperatures in the low 70s even on very hot days.
Other times of the year, you may need an AC that provides heating. The Dometic Brisk II comes with a heat pump, so you can also use it to heat your RV, making it very versatile.
The Dometic Brisk II does, however, have a few minor shortcomings. Because of its impressive output, the Dometic Brisk II can be a little loud at times. Fencing off the air conditioner can help dampen some of the noise if it gets too annoying.
Although a great overall RV air conditioner, the Dometic Brisk II is not the most low-profile rooftop AC. If that’s what you’re looking for, then the Dometic Penguin II is a more appropriate product.

Pros
Easy to install
Comes with a heat pump
Maintains cool temperatures easily

Cons
Can be loud
High-profile

2. Best Budget RV Air Conditioner: Frigidaire White Energy Star

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Why we like it: The Frigidaire White Energy Star is low on energy requirements and is perfect for single-room cooling.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
BTU: 5,000 BTU
Installation type: Window
Weight: 49.2 pounds
Dimensions: 17.75 x 17 x 14.75 inches
Sometimes, all you need is an air conditioner that can cool one room of your RV well – or you just have a small RV. If that’s what you’re looking for, then the Frigidaire White Energy Star is your best bet. Don’t let this product’s seemingly low 5,000 BTU rating fool you. It’s meant to be used for rooms up to 150 square feet in size. This makes it perfect for single rooms in your RV.
An added benefit of the Frigidaire White Energy Star’s modest aspirations is its energy efficiency. The product’s energy efficiency ratio (the ratio between cooling capacity in BTU to its input wattage) is 11.1. An EER value of 12 is considered very good for AC units, so this Frigidaire unit does well on that scale.
The Frigidaire White Energy Star is a window-mounted air conditioner. It comes with a window mounting kit so that you can go about installing it straight away.
This AC is perfect for RV owners looking to cool rooms of their vehicle on a budget. It consumes a low amount of energy and is relatively quiet as a result. This is the kind of product you’ll love if you own a smaller RV.
Portable ACs are also a great way to cool small rooms. The Black + Decker BPACT10WT is the most portable RV air conditioner on the market.

Pros
Affordable
Low energy requirements
Relatively quiet
Comes with window-mounting kit

Cons
Can be used to cool only one room

3. Best Premium RV Air Conditioner: Airxcel Mach 15

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Why we like it: This RV air conditioner boasts impressive performance and the ability to sustain that performance in high temperatures over long periods.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
BTU: 15,000 BTU
Installation type: Rooftop (ducted/non-ducted)
Weight: 90 pounds
Dimensions: 42.00 x 28.00 x 16.00 inches
The real test of an RV air conditioner is whether it can keep you cool through searing temperatures outside. Let’s say you’re dealing with 110-degree dry heat in Arizona, for example. The Airxcel Mach 15 is the kind of air conditioner that can keep your RV cool in those conditions without signs of being overworked. It can take inside temperatures from 90 degrees to 50 degrees in as little as 10 minutes.
Getting this RV air conditioner up and running is an easy process. The unit is designed for the 14×14 AC vent, which is standard, and the amount of wiring work required to kick it into action is minimal. It’s the kind of job most RV owners can do on their own. You will, however, need help getting the unit up onto your RV because of its weight.
Under the hood, the Airxcel Mach 15 uses a combination of gas-flux joints and copper tubing. These combine with the condenser coils to create a system that can cool an RV for long hours in warm conditions. Since it is capable of high cooling output, this AC works best in a ducted setup. However, it can also be used as a non-ducted AC by using a ceiling assembly kit.

Pros
Powerful cooling capabilities
Easy install
Sustained performance

Cons
Heavy, you will need help hoisting it onto your RV
Pricey

4. Most Portable RV Air Conditioner: Black + Decker BPACT10WT

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Why we like it: The Black + Decker BPACT10WT is an affordable portable RV air conditioner with multiple modes of use.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 10,000 BTU
Installation type: Portable
Weight: 52.9 pounds
Dimensions: 16.5 x 11.5 x 26 inches
Portable air conditioners offer benefits that you can’t get with an AC that’s mounted in your window or roof. Firstly, they consume less energy than larger mounted units. They can also be moved around easily, which is something you can’t do with a mounted unit. The Black + Decker BPACT10WT offers these benefits in a product that performs supremely well.
This portable RV air conditioner comes in a compact body that can generate 10,000 BTU. This means that it is best suited for areas 250 square feet or under, which translates to RVs that are 31 feet in size. If you own an RV that falls within that size, you can’t do better than the Black + Decker BPACT10WT. If you need a portable RV air conditioner that is slightly more feature-rich and don’t mind some additional weight, the SereneLife SLACHT108 is a good choice.
This RV air conditioner offers three different modes that you can run it on. The first is the standard cool setting, for when you want to use it as an AC. On cooler days, you can switch to the fan setting just to keep the air flowing. It also offers a third dehumidifier mode. You can use this AC’s dehumidifying feature without having to deal with filling and emptying water containers. A hose adapter that comes with the product releases excess water out the window.

Pros
Easily portable
Compact body
Multimode use

Cons
Not fit for areas larger than 250 square feet

5. SereneLife SLACHT108

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Why we like it: The SereneLife SLACHT108 is one of the most feature-rich portable RV air conditioners on the market.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 10,000 BTU
Installation type: Portable
Weight: 62.6 pounds
Dimensions: 17. 4 x 13. 4 x 32. 1 inches
RV owners usually equate portable air conditioners with compromising on certain kinds of features. And that’s true to some extent; you can’t expect the same cooling capacity as other kinds. However, as the SereneLife SLACHT108 shows, you can have your cake and eat it too with the right portable RV air conditioner.
Installing this AC is a quick process. Everything you need to get that done comes out of the box. This unit doesn’t take too much space, which is a boon for anyone who owns an RV.
Once you have it set up, there are a lot of features you can play around with. The SereneLife SLACHT108 has four operating modes: cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and a fan mode. You can use the remote control to set the mode as well as play around with the fan speed, temperature, and other things.
A major drawback with the SereneLife SLACHT108 is that it can be loud: very loud. This article shows you a few ways you can quiet down a loud RV air conditioner.

Pros
Multi-mode operation
Can be controlled remotely
Easy to install

Cons
Can be loud

6. Airxcel Mach 3

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Why we like it: The Airxcel Mach 3 is easy to install and can cool an entire RV all on its own.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 13,500 BTU
Installation type: Rooftop
Weight: 79.5 pounds
Dimensions: 41 x 28 x 16 inches
Let’s say it’s a hot day out there. The mercury touches 90 degrees, which means that it’s definitely time to get your RV air conditioner up and running. The Airxcel Mach 3 is the kind of AC that can have the temperature inside your RV at about 70 degrees within 25 minutes. That’s the kind of cooling power you’re grateful for when it’s a hot day in the RV.
The hardest part about installing this RV air conditioner is getting it up on top of your RV. If you can get that done, you’re faced with a simple installation process. The 1-inch rubber seals that come with the unit have arrows that show you exactly how far to tighten them. After securing the AC to the RV, it’s very easy to plug in and power it up. The whole process takes only about an hour.
The Airxcel Mach 3 works dependably for long periods of time. It is built well and you can expect to get multiple years of use from it. You may have a difficult time telling the difference between the different fan modes of the AC. But it works like a charm when you switch to the cooling mode.

Pros
Easy to install
Quick cooling
Durable

Cons
Different levels in the fan mode may not always feel very different

7. Best Low-Profile Rooftop RV Air Conditioner: Dometic Penguin II

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Why we like it: The Dometic Penguin II has a sleek design that reduces wind drag and minimizes fuel consumption.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 13,500 BTU
Installation type: Rooftop (ducted/non-ducted)
Weight: 118 pounds
Dimensions: 42 x 30 x 12 inches
Most high-capacity RV air conditioners can be conspicuous and resource-intensive. And that’s why low-profile rooftop ACs like the Dometic Penguin II stand out. This is an AC that’s designed to maintain a low profile, which has several benefits.
The first big benefit of a low-profile rooftop air conditioner is that it reduces wind drag. The Dometic Penguin II sits low on your RV roof so that the entire vehicle is more aerodynamic. This is helpful for when you want to zip around in your RV and reduces fuel consumption over the long run.
The Dometic Penguin II does all of that without falling short in the performance department. It cranks out 13,500 BTU, which is sufficient capacity for RVs sized about 675 square feet – enough for almost all RVs on the market.
The one drawback with the Dometic Penguin II is that it doesn’t always maintain a low profile when it comes to the amount of noise it produces. But it’s never so loud that it is disruptive to your overall RV experience.

Pros
Aerodynamic design
Enhanced fuel usage
Strong performance

Cons
Can be loud at times

8. Best Window-Mounted RV Air Conditioner: Home Labs HME020003N

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Why we like it: The Home Labs HME020003N is a sturdily built air conditioner that will fit in most RV windows.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 5,000
Installation type: Window
Weight: 36.5 pounds
Dimensions: 16 x 15.4 x 12 inches
The Home Labs HME020003N is built to be compact so that it can sit snugly in RV window units. The product has dimensions of 16 x 15.4 x 12 inches. The small size means that this air conditioner will fit in most windows unless you have extremely tiny windows in your RV.
Although this AC is small, it is by no means a flimsy product. The body is built using materials that feel premium. The buttons are sturdy and don’t feel like you’ll damage them quickly.
The Home Labs HME020003N is perfect for cooling small rooms. The 5,000 BTU it produces can quickly take a 150 square foot-sized room from warm to cold in a hurry. For larger spaces, however, you will need an air conditioner with a higher capacity.
This RV air conditioner produces some white noise, but isn’t what you’d consider loud. You can have the AC running and hear your TV without cranking the volume up to unreasonable levels. So this one is good for your RV and for your ears.

Pros
Compatible with most RVs
High-quality build
Not overly noisy

Cons
Not suitable for spaces above 150 square feet

9. Best RV Air Conditioner Air Distribution Box: Dometic 3314851

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Why we like it: The Dometic 3314851 is a great accessory to distribute air from a non-ducted RV air conditioner – just keep in mind it won’t do the job by itself.
Editor’s Rating:

At a glance:
Installation type: Rooftop attachment
Weight: 10 pounds
Dimensions: 23 x 21 x 2 inches
This one isn’t an RV air conditioner on its own but performs an important function as an AC accessory. The Dometic 3314851 is an air distribution box, which means that it distributes air channeled into it. It’s a great product to have when you have to use a non-ducted AC but want to circulate the air from it.
The Dometic 3314851 does that by first connecting to your existing rooftop air conditioner. If you have a roof that’s thicker than 4 inches, you will need to purchase the Dometic Bolt Kit to make the installation happen. This product works well with high-capacity ACs, such as ones with a rating of 15,000 BTU.
Once connected to the rooftop AC, the Dometic 3314851 distributes air evenly across your RV. The Dometic 3314851 also acts as a control unit for your AC.

Pros
Distributes air from non-ducted ACs
Can handle high-capacity air conditioners
Doubles up as a control unit

Cons
Requires additional accessory for roofs thicker than 4 inches
Not a full AC unit

10. Best Non-ducted RV Air Conditioner: Atwood 15026

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Why we like it: The Atwood 15026 is a non-ducted RV air conditioner that comes with a remote, making it easy to control
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 15,000
Installation type: Rooftop
Weight: 88 pounds
Dimensions: 40 x 28 x 15 inches
We saw that products like the Dometic Penguin II and Airxcel Mach 15 can be used in both ducted and non-ducted setups. The Atwood 15026 is the first one on our list that works exclusively as a non-ducted RV air conditioner. Since it works only as a non-ducted AC, it’s a lot easier to set up in that environment.
This RV air conditioner has a capacity of 15,000 BTU, which means that it is more than sufficient to cool large spaces. But cooling is not the only thing it does. The heat pump that it comes with can be used to heat your RV if you’re suddenly faced with a cold day. That said, the heat pump can run into problems at lower temperatures. You may not get the heating levels you want at temperatures under 42 degrees.
Perhaps the best part about using the Atwood 15026 is that it comes with a remote. That means that you can control the AC without having to get up to change the temperature. Admit it: an AC that indulges your laziness is every RV owner’s dream.
Installing the Atwood 15026 couldn’t be any easier. Once you have it in the AC slot, you can attach it using the 4-bolt bracket. The gaskets come attached to the product. After attaching the unit, you can connect ground, neutral, and hot wires to get it running.

Pros
Comes with a remote
High capacity
Easy to install

Cons
Heat pump is not always dependable

Everything You Need to Know About RV Air Conditioners
Most RV air conditioners last a fairly long time. Choosing the right product for your RV is half the battle. Here are some other things you will have to deal with when it comes to RV air conditioners.
How to Install an RV Air Conditioner
The exact steps that you will follow to install an RV air conditioner depend both on the RV that you own and the AC that you buy. The specifics that you need to follow will be mentioned in the instruction manual that will come with the product. Here are a few general pointers to keep in mind. Note that these are assuming you’re installing a rooftop AC.
Always Unplug the Power
Disconnect the power to your existing AC and turn off the switch powering it in your breaker box. You don’t want any surprises when you make contact with the AC or any wiring that connects to it.
Create a Slot for the AC
Take some time to decide where in the roof of your RV the AC will go. Make sure that there aren’t any lights or anything else in the way. Choose a spot that’s at least ten inches from each edge of the roof.
Once you’ve found a slot that checks all those boxes, it’s time to make a hole in the roof. This part can be scary so only proceed if you’re sure of your ability to work with metal roofing and power tools. Make sure to mark where the bolts need to go after making the hole.
Mount the AC
It’s finally time to get that AC up on your RV. We’ve seen that some RV air conditioners can be heavy, so you may need some help with this. Once you have the unit up on the roof, secure it using the mounting bolts, the location of which you marked in the previous step. Then step into your RV and install the bolts that go into the ceiling of the vehicle.
You can apply a sealant to the areas where the AC makes contact with the RV’s metal roof. This lends additional stability to the installation.
Wire It Up
The final step involves connecting the wires in the AC to the RV. You can match the color of the wires to do this correctly. Refer to the instruction manual if you have any issues knowing where each wire goes.
If you get this part right, you should be able to turn the power on and have your AC up and running.
How to Refill an RV Air Conditioner
There will be times when you’ll need to provide some juice to your RV air conditioner externally. This usually happens because refrigerant levels in the unit need to be replenished. Refer to your AC’s instruction manual to find out what kind of refrigerant the vehicle uses.
Once you have the refrigerant, head up to your AC’s roof along with wrenches of a few different sizes. You can use those to take the lid off the AC. Make sure to lift the lid carefully so that you don’t damage it.
The refrigerant gauge under the lid is what will tell you how much additional refrigerant your RV is thirsting for. Check the gauge and unscrew the port to refill the refrigerant.
You may be eager to get that lid back on at this point, but not so fast. First, power your RV back on and test your AC’s cooling to make sure that it’s working properly again. After confirming that, head back up and get the lid back on.
How to Clean and Maintain an RV Air Conditioner
Using an RV air conditioner for a long time requires regular maintenance. There isn’t really a one-size-fits-all checklist that all RV owners can use to make sure that they’re maintaining their vehicle the right way. There are, however, a few different parts of the AC that you should check regularly to ensure they’re in good condition.
Filters
Anything clogging the filters of your AC is sure to reduce the airflow through it. This can hamper the overall performance of the unit because clogged filters make the compressor work harder, leading to overheating. So check the filters regularly and make sure that they’re clean.
Evaporator
The evaporator is the part of the AC that captures excess heat and transfers it outside your RV. The coils of the evaporator are usually made of copper and the fins are made of aluminum.
You can clean the evaporator by taking the shroud off its top and taking apart the plenum. You can use a coil cleaner to do the cleaning.
Compressor
The compressor is another important component of RV air conditioners. You don’t need to check on these too regularly; maybe just once or twice a year. The main thing you’re trying to do here is to get rid of the debris that tends to collect on the body of the compressor.
The easiest way to do that is by using a spray cleaner. These will unsettle the debris that sits on the compressor. You can then use a shop vac to clean up all the loosened debris.
Frequently Asked Questions About RV Air Conditioners
How long do RV air conditioners last?
ACs from good brands, like the ones on this list, tend to last longer. We also just saw how it takes a fair amount of maintenance to keep your RV air conditioner running at optimal levels. If you get all of that right, you can expect your AC to last about five years on average.
How Much Does Installing an RV AC Cost?
Not everyone can install their RV air conditioner on their own, and that’s completely fine. If you need help installing a new AC, you can take it down to your shop. The price to install a new unit tends to be around $200-$300 on average.
How Do I Know When It’s Time for a New RV Air Conditioner?
If your AC isn’t working as you want it to, the first thing you need to do is check on a few components. First, check the fan motor to see if it’s working properly. You can use a multimeter to check if the motor is functioning like it should. If it is, move on to the compressor and check if it’s clean and working properly. Finally, check the refrigerant levels.
If both these parts seem fine and your refrigerant is topped up, and your AC is still not performing at its best, it may be time to consider a new AC unit.
The Cool Open Road
Travels that you undertake in an RV are meant to be carefree and relaxing. The best way to maintain that spirit of recreation is by choosing an air conditioner that can keep you feeling cool as you make your way down the open road.
We’ve covered the best of what’s out there and how you can choose which RV air conditioner is right for you. After making that choice, make sure to maintain the unit well so that you don’t have to think about another purchase for a while. And if you’re looking for ways to entertain yourself in your RV, check out our list of the best RV antennas. More

There’s nothing cheap about owning a car, and even the slightest of collisions can result in frustrating repair bills. Making minor repairs yourself is a great way to save money and using good-quality plastic glue to make those repairs might save you a lot more than you think.
The challenge is identifying which plastic glue is best for you, your vehicle, and the type of repair that you need to make. Remember that major repairs will require a lot more work than even the best plastic glues can accomplish. For smaller cracks and quick repairs though, glue can save both time and money.

Factors to Consider When Buying Plastic Glue for Cars
As well as being much easier to do yourself, using glue to make minor repairs to your car is significantly cheaper than alternative repair options like welding.
In particular, glue is ideal for fixing seams due to its flexibility and natural water-resistance. After all, car parts typically require a degree of movement and are frequently exposed to water, moisture, and humidity. But while plastic is an incredibly useful material, it can be very demanding for standard types of glue. Most glue types struggle to bond with plastics, and that can make car repairs much more challenging.
When you’re doing minor car repairs yourself (or even something major – like windshield repair), you need the best adhesives for the job. Here are the key factors to consider now you’ve decided to get your hands dirty with some plastic repair work.
Type
Glues that are suitable for fixing car plastics come in three main types. You’ll find each type within our product reviews, but for now, here’s a brief overview of your choices.
Gel: the most common – easy to apply and dries solid
Liquid: much more viscous, better suited for those with experience, but offers a hard seal once dry
Spray: covers a wide area in one go, very time-efficient for larger jobs
Quantity
If you have a big repair job to get done, then you’re going to need a larger bottle. It makes sense to buy smaller tubes for smaller tasks because glue can dry out quickly, and it can suddenly become very difficult to remove caps and start using your tube. That just leads to wasted time and money. Some glues are designed with this in mind and will be a good investment, no matter the size of your repair job.
Of course, you’ll also need to factor in shelf life. There’s no point keeping a tube of glue in your workspace (or your refrigerator) if it’s going to deteriorate to the point of not being useful when you need to make quick repairs.
Color
While some glues are clear and will remain so even after they have set, others have a more cloudy appearance, and others come in a black color. If the join you’re creating will be visible and you don’t want to reduce the value of your vehicle, then a clear glue will be the best option. If the join is going to be out of sight, then coloring will be less of an issue.
Applicator
We all know how messy glue can be, and that’s why you need to pay attention to the applicator. Even some of the best glues in the world have packaging problems and poorly designed nozzles, and the results can get very sticky indeed. Other glues will have a brush for smoother glue layers or for coating smaller parts. Our reviews detail all known issues with product applicators and packaging.
Pliability
The glue that holds the plastics in your car together needs to be as pliable as those plastics. If you use glue or adhesive that dries too solid, then it can more easily break if used on the plastic parts of your car that require flexibility. You need your glue to be able to move with the parts it is joined to without breaking the bond.
Pliability at the time of application is also dependent on the dry time of the glue. To learn more about the expected dry time needed when gluing car plastics, check out our section here on setting time.
Price
Plastic glues for cars come in a wide range of prices, but more expensive doesn’t always mean it’s the best choice for you. In many cases, you’ll find that a cheaper, more suitable glue will do the job you need it for. Don’t get stuck on price if you have a very clear idea of what your repair job is going to be. Look instead at the glue that is designed for the job.
With the above factors in mind, here is our top 10 list of the very best plastic glues for your car.

Top 10 Best Glues for Car Plastic
1. Best Overall Plastic Glue for Cars: E6000 230022 Medium Viscosity Adhesive

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Why we like it: An industrial-scale glue that will do your car repair job easily and will bond parts of your car together so strongly that you may never need a replacement.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: 1
Size: 3.7 Fl Oz
Color: Semi-transparent
Incredible Bonds
This E6000 is one tough glue. It’s perfectly suited for making car repairs, and even big jobs will be made much easier and cheaper when you use this very affordable, incredibly tough adhesive. The best thing about this glue is that it’s an excellent all-rounder and is ideal for beginners and professionals alike.
This is a glue that will stick glass to glass and plastic to plastic, and that helps make it one of the best glues on the planet. For auto repairs, it’s hard to beat. It’s an amazing glue, and because it’s been designed to perform in industrial settings, it’s more than powerful enough for your car repairs.
Strong Odor
This is a glue that you must use in a ventilated space, although outdoors is even better. It’s incredibly strong-smelling and will give you a headache if you try to use it in a small room with no ventilation. Follow the instructions, and you’ll avoid that particular issue.
While an excellent glue, the E6000Auto/Industrial Adhesive does take some practice when it comes to application. It’s very easy to squeeze out more glue than you need, and you’ll find that even when you stop squeezing the tube, more glue will continue to release. Use your angles and try to pour out less than you need because this can be a very hard glue to remove if misapplied.
Size and Warnings
This is a big tube of glue, so you’re not going to run out for a while, no matter how badly damaged your car is. Make sure that you allow for drying time, with those projects that are left to set from between 24 and 48 hours more likely to stay stuck. It’s worth noting that this particular glue does come with a warning that says that it “contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause cancer.”

Pros
Incredibly tough
Stays bonded despite temperature changes
Can be used to stick almost anything to anything
Large bottle

Cons
Strong, potentially headache-inducing odor
Tricky to apply without practice
Scary warnings

2. Best Premium Plastic Glue for Cars: Henkel-Loctite 1363589 Super Glue Ultra Gel Control

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Why we like it: Much cleaner and easier to use than liquid glues, this Super Glue gel is also tough enough to make car repairs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: 4
Size: 4g each
Color: Transparent
Easy to Use Gel
Unlike the majority of plastic glues on this list, this Henkel-Loctite Super Glue is a gel, and that’s a major bonus point. That’s simply because it is so easy to apply and much easier than liquid glues, which are prone to making a mess. The glue itself is incredibly tough and durable, dries quickly, and will last for a long time no matter what kind of car repairs you’re carrying out.
Single-Use
The tip on this container is incredibly well-designed too, and it will only clog if you make the mistake of leaving it open. That means you can use it again and again, although the incredibly small container size is certainly more suitable for single-use jobs.
It’s not a bottle as such and is more like a tube of single-use glue, and the downside of that is that it can be a job to get every drop of gel out. You may need to practice your squeezing grip! However, the ease of application is the big selling point of this ultra-clear gel, and even beginners will have few problems when it comes to making their car repairs.
A Firm Favorite
This may not be the strongest glue on the market, but when it’s this easy to make repairs, it’s certainly deserving of its place in this list. Put simply, this is the type of glue that once you use it, it will be very likely to be a regular feature of your shopping basket.

Pros
Fast to dry
The firmer gel is less messy than liquid glues
Won’t dry out
Single-use tubes
Easy to control

Cons
Small container
Hard to get the last drops out
Not the toughest glue

3. Best All-Rounder: Gorilla Clear Glue

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Why we like it: Very durable glue designed for indoor and outdoor use that makes it ideal for car repairs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Liquid
Quantity: Available in 1-pack or 2-pack sizes
Size: 3.75 Fl Oz
Color: Transparent
Gorilla Quality
One of the biggest names in glue, Gorilla has a great reputation and a global brand. This clear glue is one of the toughest you can buy, and it’s particularly well suited to car repairs and maintenance because it’s designed specifically for indoor and outdoor use.
However, although it is sold as water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof, like the Loctite Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant. So if you live in areas with high levels of rainfall, such as Seattle, Washington, or New York, then you should be wary of using this too much.
The Price Issue
On the plus side, this glue is great for car repairs, especially if you sand or roughen where you plan on joining your two pieces of material. Of course, price is an issue here, and Gorilla Clear Glue is one of the more expensive adhesives on this list, especially when you factor in how much you need to use for each job. That’s because you tend to need a lot more liquid with Gorilla glues, and this one is no exception.
If you don’t use enough, then the edges will dry, and you will assume that the bond is sealed together when it isn’t. Unfortunately, using too little of this glue will leave you having to clean it and start again because you will always need more than you think.
Drying Time
You’ll have to let this glue sit for longer than other glues, sometimes for up to 48hours. This is a good, high-quality glue that can be ideal for car repairs, but the cost and the value for money make it less appealing than many of the alternatives.

Pros
Great for hot and cold states
Incredibly reliable when used correctly
One of the toughest glues on sale

Cons
You have to use a lot
May not stand up to high levels of rainfall
Takes a long time to set

4. Best for Seams: Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue

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Why we like it: A runny glue that’s perfect for using along seams or for reinforcing large joins.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Liquid
Quantity: 1
Size: 40ml
Color: Transparent
Extra-Thin but Ultra-Strong
This is the best glue you can buy if you’re looking at long seams that need reinforcing on your car. It’s incredibly easy to use, thanks to its pointed applicator tip, which gives you maximum control over exactly where you want your glue to go. If you do make a mistake, this is an ultra-thin glue, so it’s not going to be a lot of hard work to clean off and start over.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that because this is classed as ultra-thin that it won’t be up to the task of car repair. Not only will this glue remove paint, which will make it easier to bond two plastics together, it will also flow easily into any cracks and grooves that you need it to.
The Benefits of Being Extra-Thin
The fluidity of this glue means it’s ideal for getting into seams and small spots. It runs more like a liquid than most of the other glues on this list, but it will make your joins very tough. It’s also very easy to apply, and the level of control that you get with the applicator tip makes it one of the easiest glues on sale for beginners, especially when mistakes can be rectified with very little work.
It does have a very strong odor, so you’re going to want to use it only in a well-ventilated space if you don’t want to live with the glue smell for several hours after use.
Perfect for Reinforcement
While this isn’t a glue for big jobs and large parts, it’s ideally designed to reinforce those bigger jobs and could be the deciding factor when it comes to keeping your car in one piece. Unfortunately, it is almost too clear, which can make it very challenging to visually check that you have applied it to the right place. If you’d prefer something that’s easily visible, the J-B Weld 50139 Plastic Bonder comes in black.

Pros
Incredibly easy to apply
Perfect for small repairs and reinforcing other repairs
Easy to fix gluing mistakes

Cons
Not strong enough for big jobs
Can be hard to see
Strong smell

5. Best Budget Plastic Glue for Cars: Scotch Super Glue Liquid

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Why we like it: The single-use, small bottles mean less waste, it’s easy to apply, and it doesn’t ooze after using it. Our favorite choice for small repairs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Liquid
Quantity: 4
Size: .07 Fl Oz
Color: Transparent
No-Run Perfection
Scotch Super Glue is tough, durable, and versatile, and it’s also one of the least messy glues on the market. This small .07 oz bottle comes with a precision control applicator, and that means it’s incredibly easy to put your glue exactly where it has to go. This Scotch glue also comes with a no-run formula, although this isn’t always as effective as advertised.
The good news is that the applicator alone is brilliant enough to justify its inclusion on this list, and the precision and control that you get is second to none. Most other glues will always ‘ooze’ a little more than you need unless you are experienced, but you don’t get that here.
No Drying Out
It’s not just the applicator that’s good either, because the bottle is also designed to specifically prevent the glue in the container from drying out. Like the Henkel-Loctite Super Glue, this glue comes in single-use tubes, but you aren’t limited to that single-use because you can always put the cap back on the container and store it.
You get four in a package, so you can even have one in your garage, one in your car, and have two spares for other emergencies. So while the tubes are small, they have more than enough glue needed for quick and long-term repairs.
Incredible Value
This is the glue to look at if you’re only planning to make small repairs on your car, simply because larger jobs are going to need a lot more glue to get the job done. If you’re looking to get some larger repair work done, you may wish to check out the E6000 230022 Adhesive, which comes in a much larger size.
Still, when it’s this easy to use, Scotch Super Glue Liquid in this small container is exceptional value.

Pros
Unique precision control applicator
Incredibly easy to use
Less waste
Strong glue
Excellent value for money

Cons
Not a lot of glue in the container
The no-run formula can’t be relied on

6. Best for Big Jobs: J-B Weld 50139 Plastic Bonder

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Why we like it: For really big joins, this hard-drying adhesive does the jobs that other glues simply can’t match.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: 2
Size: 0.85 Fl Oz
Color: Black
Hardy and Permanent Adhesive
This isn’t technically a glue and is classed as an ‘adhesive system,’ but it’s particularly well suited to car repairs. It’s fantastic when it comes to bonding carbon fiber composites, thermoplastics, and many different types of coated materials. This is a big leap from traditional glues, but that’s what makes it stand out.
You mix it so that it can be more easily shaped, and it will fill out even the oddest of spaces. It also won’t drip or run as it dries, which always means less risk of things going wrong.
Tricky to Prepare
This is certainly more complicated to use than a basic tube of glue, but it sets incredibly quickly at just 15-minutes and once set, it’s a solid mass. It dries exceptionally hard, so it’s not going to be suitable for every repair job on your car. Often, you need a little flexibility and give, and this just won’t do that.
Instead, what you’ll get is a solid and incredibly strong bond, and that makes it perfect for filling out any dents on your bodywork, fixing bumpers in place, and repairing any interior or exterior plastic parts of your vehicle.
Long-Lasting
This is the bonding agent you need if you want to make sure that any repairs that you make will last as long (if not longer) than the car itself. Classed as a permanent bond, once this is in place, you’ll never have to worry about it again unless you’ve made a mistake. It will dry black though, so you may need to paint over it if your vehicle is a different color and your repairs are going to be visible.

Pros
Extremely durable
One of the toughest adhesives available
Will last as long as your car
Very quick to set

Cons
It dries hard
Mistakes are hard work to rectify
Takes skill to use

7. Best for Fabrics: 3M Super 77 Multipurpose Spray

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Why we like it: Quick and easy to use without the problem of it soaking into the material, meaning less waste and more bonding.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Spray
Quantity: 1
Size: 16.75 Fl Oz
Color: Black
Joining Different Materials
This is a spray-on glue, so it’s very different from others on this list. It’s designed more for lightweight jobs, but when it comes to applying the fabrics in your car, it’s hard to beat. Whether you’re joining fabrics to other fabrics or to plastics or metals, this is the glue for you.
Unfortunately, if you’re trying to bond larger surfaces, then this won’t be your best option. In most cases, those larger surfaces will bond, but there is a very common issue with spray-on glues: if you use too much, then you’re going to end up with a weak joint, and that’s going to affect the safety of your car.
Struggles in Hot Weather
This spray-on glue is also prone to being vulnerable to hotter climates, so if you live and drive somewhere hot, then this is probably one to avoid. For those in more temperate states, this glue might be one of the best available. There’s no soaking-in, so you won’t lose too much of the glue to the materials, and it’s very uniform in its application.
Potentially Very Messy
Of course, because it’s a spray glue, you’re going to need to get some practice in, because it’s very easy to make a mess. When you start spraying glue, it can go where you don’t want it to go, and it can take a long time to clean up the mess that you make. Always put some tarpaulin down before you start spraying!
As you’d expect, this glue does have a strong odor, but it’s not one that lingers. More suitable for fabrics but still above average for smaller plastic repair jobs, this is a glue that has a very defined (and limited) value to the majority of car repairers.

Pros
Good for lightweight jobs
Ideal for gluing fabrics
No soaking-in

Cons
Not great in high temperatures
Hard and messy to use
Not brilliant with plastic-to-plastic bonds

8. Best for Extreme Environments: Loctite Stik n’ Seal Extreme Conditions Adhesive

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Why we like it: One of the most resilient glues on the list, the bottle and liquid are both designed to be used in extreme environments.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: Available in 1-pack or 6-pack sizes
Size: 0.58 Fl Oz
Color: Transparent
Fantastically Durable
From warped plastic panels on your bodywork to fixing broken side mirrors, this is one of the best, most practical, and brilliant all-round glues for car repairs. This glue from Loctite has been designed to be used in extreme temperatures, and the result is a glue that can be used anywhere and is almost guaranteed to keep what you want where you want it. It’s brilliant in the extreme temperatures of Vegas and LA, but it’s also incredibly resilient in colder, wetter climates.
This is the glue that motorists use when they’ve tried other, less durable options, and it’s the one you’ll keep coming back to if you try it just once.
Appalling Packaging
The problem is the packaging and the container. The packaging is needlessly difficult to open, while the applicator is incredibly imprecise. Considering the price of this glue, it should have a much easier to use application system, but the fact is that this is a very messy glue to try and use. That might seem like a minor nitpick, but you may need to get used to cleaning up glue messes until you’ve become a little more experienced with handling this troubling design.
Drying Time
Loctite Stik N’ Seal will create a permanent bond, but you will have to let it rest in place for drying. If you live somewhere humid, try to leave it for 48 hours, although generally 24-hours is more than enough. Often, it’s a good idea to use some tape to hold your pieces in place while this glue dries and bonds.
Whether you’re reattaching parts of your exterior or resealing your back windows, this is the glue that will do the job, as long as you are prepared for the potential mess.

Pros
A permanent glue designed for extreme conditions
You can use it almost anywhere on your car
Perfect for big and small jobs
No strong odor

Cons
Very messy
Hard to open
Long dry time

9. Best for Clear Dries: Loctite Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant

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Why we like it: One of the most practical clear glues you can buy, and it can be used for multiple types of repair jobs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: 1
Size: 2.7 Fl Oz
Color: Transparent
Amazing Glue, Flawed Packaging
This is one of the glues where the glue itself is almost flawless, but the packaging and container let it down. Ideally, this glue would be much higher up the list, simply because it’s so good at what it’s supposed to do. It’s very easy to apply, and it doesn’t have the problem of being overly odorous. It will dry quickly, and it won’t peel either.
Loctite recommends waiting up to 48-hours for the drying time, which might feel a little excessive, but that wait time is worth it. The result that you end up with will be as tough, waterproof, and as flexible as it comes. It dries clear too, so you won’t have to worry too much about the look of your car if you’re making exterior repairs.
The Problem with Mess
As soon as you try to open this otherwise excellent glue, you’re going to spot the problems. The cap will often split when you try to open it, and even if you can avoid that problem then it still might split when you finish with your glue and put the cap back on.
Tightening it by even a minor amount will result in a split cap. Of course, with a split cap, the glue that you have left in the container will be quick to dry, wasting your money.
It’s not just the cap that’s a problem either. The tube itself is very thick, which makes squeezing it a bit of an effort, and if you squeeze too hard, then you risk the tube cracking. That’s going to mean glue everywhere and a lot of waste.

Pros
One of the strongest glues on this list
No strong odor
Dries clear
Very flexible

Cons
Easy to break the cap when opening
The threat of splitting the tube
Messy

10. Most Beginner Friendly Glue: Amazing GOOP 160012 Automotive Adhesive

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Why we like it: A very tough glue that is very easy for beginners to use and will stay in place as it dries.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: 1
Size: 3.7 Fl Oz
Color: Transparent
Hugely Popular
This is a solid little glue that will do a lot more than you might expect. It’s designed to remain durable in temperatures from -40°F and 150°F, so it might not be any use for engine repairs, but it’s more than up for the task of other car fixes.
One of the reasons why this is such a popular glue option is because it has very little slip and slide when you’re placing two materials together. All you have to do is keep your pieces in place for a few seconds, and the bonding process begins. It won’t even stick your fingers together either! The low cost is just the icing on the cake.
Read the Instructions
Although the glue itself is great, its effectiveness will dramatically reduce if you don’t follow the instructions to the letter. It’s not great with metal, so if you’re trying to attach plastic to metal parts then your bond isn’t going to be as tough as you might hope. The major problem with GOOP is that it evaporates very quickly, so you need to make sure that you leave the lid on the container as much as possible.
The other issue is that, because it is such a thin liquid, it spreads very quickly, and you may end up having to apply more than one coat if you’re joining large surfaces. However, it goes on easily (sometimes too easily), and it is very user friendly once you get used to the runniness.
Potent odor
This is one strong-smelling glue, and you absolutely must use it in only a well-ventilated workspace. Preferably, leave your glued pieces outside while they dry, because the fumes from this glue are both very strong and toxic. You will get a headache if you try to use it in a small, enclosed space.

Pros
Excellent glue
Multi-purpose
Inexpensive

Cons
Toxic fumes
Easy to spill
Quick evaporation

Guide to Buying the Right Plastic Glue for Car Repairs

The best glue for your car repairs will always depend on your level of experience and the job that you hope to do. Some products, such as the J-B Weld Filler Syringe, will require some prep work that can be confusing if you’ve never used it before. Alternative options like the Henkel-Loctite Ultra Gel are incredibly easy to apply, making these options perfect for first-timers or for those that just want quick and easy fixes.
Picking the Best Plastic Glue
Of course, not every glue is going to be suitable for every purpose. Keep reading for some handy tips on how to choose the right glue for your specific situation.
Think About the Job
If you want to stick two pieces of your car together, then you’re going to want something that’s going to stick. There are a lot of different types of plastic in your car, so you need to make sure that your glue will bond between the specific materials that you’re joining. For example, if you want to join carpet and fabric to plastic, then 3M Super 77 Multipurpose Permanent Spray will be the preferred choice.
The bigger the job, the more glue you’ll need. For large jobs, you’ll want to avoid the single-use tubes that might contain excellent glue but will not be very cost-effective. Striking the right balance between the amount of glue that you need and the types of materials you are joining together is critical.
Setting Time
Lots of glues call themselves ‘fast set,’ but for very small jobs, that’s not going to be too much of a factor. Be wary though of paying too much attention to fast-dry claims when it comes to glues for car repairs. Making repairs on a car isn’t the same as breaking a child’s toy or your glasses.
Cars suffer from a lot of wear and tear, and you need to give your glue time to bond properly. Even if a glue says that it bonds in seconds or minutes, always leave it for at least 24 hours. There are ways to make your glue dry faster if you’re in a rush, but as a general rule of thumb, it’s always better to let the glue do its job.
Temperature and Weather
It makes sense that you want your car glue to be resistant to water, especially if you’re making repairs where that glue is going to be exposed to the elements. You also need to factor in the heat of your usual driving environment. Drivers in North Dakota will need to think more about the glue’s resilience to cold, while drivers in Florida will have to make sure that their glue is resistant to heat and sunlight.
Tips for Gluing Car Plastics

Before carrying out any repair jobs on your car with glue, you need to get things right. It’s very easy to make a mistake when it comes to gluing, and although some extra-thin glues will make mistakes easy to rectify, thicker glues can be a mess. So you need to make sure that you do things right the first time. That will mean:
Prepping the surface: Wash down your surfaces with soapy water or a specialized plastic cleaner. Alternatively, you can use isopropyl alcohol to make sure that your surfaces are as clear of dirt and other particles as possible. Then, make sure the surface is dry, and keep your hands away from the surfaces that you’re gluing as you will leave oil residue from your hands that will weaken the glue bond.
Use sandpaper: Glue sticks better if the surfaces are not smooth, so it’s worth taking a few minutes to do some light sandpapering of where your glue is going to go. You don’t need to go overboard because you just want a light roughness to the surfaces. If you don’t have any sandpaper to hand, then some steel wool will do the job just as well.
Clamping: Even if a glue claims to be quick-drying, that doesn’t mean your car will be ready to drive a few minutes after you’ve glued two parts of it together! You will want to keep those pieces together and immobile for as long as possible, with 24 hours generally being the minimum. Secure your bonded parts together using some form of clamp or use tape/elastic bands to make sure that your pieces don’t slip out of place.
Cleaning up: Once you have finished gluing everything that you need to glue, it’s time to clean the bottle and the cap. Use denatured alcohol or isopropyl alcohol to remove excess glue or any spillages on your work surfaces. Then, reseal your glue tightly and keep it somewhere dry. Many people swear by keeping their glue in the fridge, while others will recommend using a sealed mason jar with some dried rice inside to absorb any moisture.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to saving money on car repairs, there’s nothing quite like doing those repairs yourself. When even big jobs can be completed by using glue rather than by welding or using heavy equipment, it’s always worth looking a little closer at your options.
Don’t waste cash on expensive mechanics when you could already have all of the skills you need to start gluing your car back together again. More

Years of hard miles on the open road can take their toll on both your motorcycle seat and your body, there’s no shame in that. Due to the fact that it’s becoming increasingly more fashionable to ride bikes with minimally padded seats (cough, cough, cafe racers) as well as unique, fashionable bikes like hardtails and vintage scramblers, life hasn’t been as bad to the posteriors of motorcyclists since before the days of suspension.
But amidst the trend of form over fashion, there’s still hope. Never in the history of motorcycling have there been so many products, materials, and technologies meant to make riding comfortable readily available on the market. With a nice seat cushion, the pains of the road will melt away.

Features to Consider in a Motorcycle Seat Cushion
Seat cushions typically accomplish one goal: help you get more comfortable on the motorcycle. Keep in mind that some are more effective than others, and that different seat cushions come with different levels of quality. Consider the following aspects when looking for a cushion that works with your body.
Padding Material
More than anything else, it’s important to find a cushion with the right padding material. A lot of this comes down to personal preference, but there are a few general trends when it comes to the pros and cons of each type.
Memory Foam: Memory foam is a classic for all products meant to be comfortable. It’s arguably one of the best options due to its postural benefits, and it’s come down in price in recent years, but some motorcyclists find it too soft for their personal preference.
Inflatable: Some seat cushions inflate with air or even water, meaning you can adjust the firmness and deflate it for storage. The only issue, though, is that they need to be reinflated over time. Seat cushions that can be filled with water can help with temperature regulation, although they’re a bit more inconvenient.
Natural Materials: Wool, down, leather, and even wood can be incorporated into seat cushions. Natural materials aren’t not the most comfortable or affordable options, but they’re typically fashionable and long-lasting.
Beading: The classic seat cover for RV and truck drivers across the nation is now available for motorcyclists as well. It’s cheap, great at regulating temperature, but a little slippery. Our favorite? This cover from Regway, a beaded cushion made from real wood.
Gel: Gel padding is the most expensive option for a seat cushion. Although it’s very comfortable, they’re not supportive enough to be ergonomically safe on long rides, so we haven’t included any gel cushions on our list.
Cover Material
It’s hard to create a rule to classify cover materials, as different grades of nylons, plastics, and leathers all can change based on price and quality. High-grade nylon is more durable and more waterproof than leather, but leather is typically perceived as a higher grade material. Watch out for not just the material, but its quality as well.
Seat Compatibility
When shopping for a seat cushion, you’ve obviously got to pick a product that will fit your seat. We’d stay away from seat cushions that claim to be universal, as one-size-fits-all really is more likely to yield a fit that doesn’t really work that well on any single seat.
Extra Features
Along with the most prominent features buyers look for, some little details can make or break a motorcycle seat cushion or cover. Think about the features below before taking out your wallet.
Quality Fasteners: Buckles are better than Velcro, metal is better than plastic, and a product with a warranty is better than a product without one.
Waterproofing: Sheepskin and cloth seat protectors might be fashionable, but you’re all but guaranteed a wet butt if you head out in the rain. Look for something that’s sufficiently grippy but that still repels water.
Security: A pad that slides around isn’t just annoying, it can be dangerous. Invest in a pad with a proper fit and fasteners that keep the product correctly in place.
You probably have some idea of what you’re looking for, whether it’s an ergonomic gel seat cushion or a sheepskin you throw over the back of your bike. Check out a list of our top 10 favorite options below.

Top 10 Best Motorcycle Seat Cushions 2020
1. Best Overall Motorcycle Seat Cushion: MadDog GearComfort Ride Seat Protector

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Why we like it: This all-purpose cover isn’t just for cushioning, it also protects the seat itself and comes with a year-long warranty that’s rare for the category.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Soft-Molded Foam
Cover Material: Nylon
Seat Style: ADV, Motocross, Dual-Sport, any longer seats
Extra Features: Reticulated construction
While this seat was originally designed and advertised towards ATV riders, long-haul motorcycle riders quickly co-opted the product for its durability, adaptable fit, and comfort. While it’s a bit lighter in terms of padding, it provides just the right amount of cushion to add a bit of comfort without feeling like it obstructs movement or reduces the ability to maneuver the motorcycle. It’s also got a full, year-long warranty that takes care of any damage or deterioration up until day 365 of ownership.
With more aggressive riding comes a greater need for a secure fit, and this cover has three sturdy, adjustable quick-release buckles that keep the pad locked in place during use.
Instead of a single pad, this motorcycle seat cushion is made of 22 articulated smaller padded sections, making fit much more versatile than with the typical motorcycle seat cushion. This means it will work for any long narrow seat, such as those seen on Dual-Sport bikes, ADVs, and motocross bikes, but it won’t fit cruiser seats, so check out the Air Motorcycle Pressure Relief Pad if this won’t meet your needs.

Pros
Versatile fit thanks to 22 small articulated padded, soft-molded foam sections
Full-year warranty for any issues
Light padding makes it feel less bulky and more maneuverable
Works for any number of longer, narrower seats

Cons
Won’t fit cruiser seats
Needs to fit perfectly to be ridden aggressively

2. Best Seat Cushion for Cruisers: Air Motorcycle Pressure Relief Pad

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Why we like it: This cruiser-oriented seat cushion has a cushion for airflow and a bulky construction for maximum comfort.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Mesh
Seat Style: Cruiser, Touring
Extra Features: Fill Valve
Meant for cruisers and touring bikes, this 15 by 15-inch seat cushion is shock-absorbing and designed with a breathable cover to keep airflow going and reduce discomfort over long rides. It’s a pretty extreme option, though, and while it’s sure to make you much more comfortable on the motorcycle, it’s not a small cushion like the MadDog GearComfort Ride Seat Protector and thus might feel strange or bulky to riders used to harder, narrower seats.
The seat cushion, although it’s all contained under a single mesh cover, is composed of 12 self-contained air chambers. These allow the cushion to articulate around the seat and relieves pressure via the channels in between the air bladders and are great from an ergonomic and postural perspective, conforming to the curves of the body, adding support where necessary and giving way where pressure points, bones, and joints conventionally cause numbness and pain.

Pros
Inflatable seat cushion works well with cruiser and touring bikes
12 articulated air chambers contained by a mesh cover
Adds support where necessary while not being too bulky
Channels help relieve pressure against the undercarriage

Cons
May feel strange to riders used to harder and narrower seats
Bulky construction is an extreme solution

3. Best Premium Motorcycle Seat Cushion: Airhawk R-Revb Cruiser R Large Motorcycle Seat Cushion

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Why we like it: This inflatable pad is cool, ergonomically designed, and adjustable on the fly.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Mesh Cloth
Seat Style: Cruisers
Extra Features: Adjustable Air Valve
Although expensive, Airhawk is one of the biggest manufacturers in this space, utilizing pressure-relieving support, 3D imaging, and high-end materials to help improve airflow and reduce pressure on the body while sitting down. While the air chambers are made of polyurethane and do a great job of holding in air, the top cover is made of three layers of mesh to keep the pad cool–which means that this cushion is unfortunately not waterproof, so if you’ll be out in the rain often something like the Aquacapsule Pressure Relief Air Motorcycle Seat Pad might be a worthy alternative.
A single pressure-relieving cutout runs down the length of the seat and elevates the tailbone away from the seat, permitting both air and blood flow to the undercarriage, directly combatting the numbness that some motorcyclists often experience. Our favorite feature, though, is an easy to operate air valve that can be adjusted on the fly to reduce the air pressure in the cushion as necessary, although it shouldn’t be attempted while moving. Make sure to pull over to make any adjustments.

Pros
Incorporates an easy-to-operate air valve
Firmness can be quickly and accurately adjusted on the fly
Top cover is made of three layers of cooling, structural mesh
Helps both air and blood flow

Cons
The mesh cover material isn’t waterproof
Shouldn’t be deflated while moving

4. Best Waterproof Motorcycle Seat Cushion: Aquacapsule Pressure Relief Air Motorcycle Seat Pad

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Why we like it: This waterproof ergonomic seat cover is phenomenal for those looking for pressure relief, and can also be filled with water to maximize comfort and heat distribution.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Lycra
Seat Style: Cruiser/Touring Saddles
Extra Features: Air and Water Inflatable
This inexpensive seat cushion from Aquacapsule is specifically designed for pressure relief, advertising a 30% improvement over typical stock cruiser and touring saddles, which is not only impressive but also can help you avoid issues with your undercarriage. It can be filled up with either air or water, with air maximizing ease of use and portability, and water maximizing comfort and distribution of heat. The bottom of the cushion has a non-slip material, the cushion itself is waterproof, and uses two straps with buckles to hook to your motorcycle seat.
The cushion is also incredibly economical, at about half the price of premium options like the Airhawk R-Revb Cruiser Seat Cushion. While that’s great, it does give us some pause when thinking about the quality and longevity of the individual inflatable chambers, especially when filling them with water.

Pros
Inexpensive seat cushion designed to relieve pressure
Bottom of the cushion has a non-slip material to prevent cushion movement
Can be filled with both air and water
Much less expensive than premium options

Cons
Air pockets aren’t of the highest quality
Some concerns with water leakage

5. Best Budget Motorcycle Seat Cushion: KKmoon Motorcycle Seat Cover

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Why we like it: A mesh construction and a construction more fit for sport bikes than for cruisers means that this isn’t just one of those typical seat cushions for Harley-Davidson riders.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Layered Mesh
Cover Material: Mesh
Seat Style: Sport, ADV, and Pillion Seats
Extra Features: Water Drainage, Anti-slip coating
In a category of products that are primarily dedicated towards cruiser riders and cruiser seats, this particular seat cover is comfortable, stable, and can fit all kinds of non-traditional motorcycles—the only type of seat it doesn’t fit, in fact, is a typical cruiser seat. So really, if you’ve got a sport bike, and ADV bike, or really any bike with a narrower seat, this is one of the best options available. While the mesh material that both covers and pads the seat isn’t technically waterproof, it is at least quick-drying thanks to a matrix of holes that help with drainage.
It’s one of the most effective covers at redistributing heat, with the mesh structure doing an incredible job at preventing the large rises in heat that happen to motorcycles when left in the sun on long summer days. The structure is composed of two separate layers of mesh that not only reflect heat away, but also provide good airflow and vibration absorption that’s just about best in class. Also helping with ease of use and security during operation is the non-slip coating underneath which helps the cushion stay firmly planted.

Pros
Quick-drying seat cushion meant for narrow motorcycle seats
Mesh material is effective at redistributing heat
Two separate layers of mesh provide vibration absorption
Non-slip material keeps cushion firmly planted on the seat

Cons
Doesn’t fit cruiser seats
Construction with drainage holes isn’t waterproof

6. Best Ergonomic Motocycle Seat Cushion: Wehope Seat Air Cushion Pad for Cruiser Motorcycles

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Why we like it: This triangular inflatable cushion helps relieve pressure on the sit bones while tilting the pelvis forward, adjusting the entire body to make riding more comfortable.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Mesh
Seat Style: Cruiser
Extra Features: Fill Valve
Straddling the line between narrow (the MadDog GearComfort Ride Seat Protector) and cushy (the Air Motorcycle Pressure Relief Pad), the Wehope Seat Air Cushion is wide at the back to support the sit bones, but narrower at the front to push the hips forward for a more ergonomic seated position.
Because of this design, it doesn’t just cushion but actually adjusts the rider’s posture on the bike. 11 by 11 inches is smaller than average as far as footprint goes, but that’s no issue on cruiser saddles as they’re generally a bit smaller anyways. If you’re looking for something that can pad out a longer saddle (like the ones you’ll see on tourers, scramblers, and cafe racers), check out the KKmoon Motorcycle Seat Cover).

Pros
Design actually adjusts the rider’s posture on the motorcycle
Straddles the line between narrow and cushy in a seat pad
Wider at the back to support sit bones
Narrow at the front to push posture forward

Cons
Narrower than other seat cushions
Smaller footprint won’t work on longer, narrow saddles

7. Best Motorcycle Cushion for Small Seats: Airhawk Dual Sport Motorcycle Air Cushion

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Why we like it: A compact seat cushion isn’t just nice for portability and getting the best fit on small bikes, but it feels light and non-bulky while riding longer distances.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Polyurethane Mesh
Seat Style: Smaller Seats/Pillion Seats
Extra Features: Washable Zip Cover, Air Valve
Similar to its larger brother, the Airhawk R-Revb Cruiser Seat Cushion, this cushion from Airhawk is a bit smaller in form than most, but equally as comfortable. With a quick-access air valve that lets you adjust air pressure on the fly, the inflatable pad is covered in a polyurethane cover that is both breathable and washable. All of this comes in a form factor that can crush down to fit in a saddlebag or a backpack.
In fact, it’s small enough that it can be used as a pillion seat cushion as well, although the shape means that it might sit slightly awkwardly and be a bit harder to attach if you’re setting it up as a secondary seat pad. That’s thanks to its small size, which fits on everything from the thickest, widest cruiser seats to smaller and narrower seats seen on sport bikes and ADV bikes. Watch out for the straps, though, as the elastic material and plastic buckles feel flimsy, especially when stretched around larger seats.

Pros
Small, inflatable cushion scrunches down to a compact size
Polyurethane mesh cover is both breathable and washable
Small enough to be used as a pillion seat cushion
Works on all types of bikes from ADV bikes to cruisers

Cons
Cushion is smaller than most seat cushions
Plastic buckles and elastic straps feel flimsy

8. Best Classic Motorcycle Seat Cushion: Alaska Leather Large Sheepskin Buttpad

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Why we like it: This classic yet comfortable wool seat cushion is the perfect combination between modern tech (buckles) and the miracle of natural materials.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Sheepskin
Cover Material: Wool
Seat Style: Cruiser
Extra Features: Natural Materials, USA-made
Sheepskins and wool have been popular with motorcyclists ever since the earliest days of motorcycling, and this product pays homage to a different time of motorcycling, where adventurers did whatever they could do to get comfortable over long, rough roads. While the cover itself looks like the sheepskin seat covers of 100 years ago, the bottom attachment system is composed of modern, high-quality straps, hooks, and buckles that keep the cover solidly attached to just about any cruiser seat.
Some of the issues with authentic wool are some of the same issues that are seen on most natural substances: no waterproofing, a propensity to holding off odors, and a slightly itchy texture. Made of 100% authentic sheepskin, though, be advised that this USA-grown and USA-manufactured product has great quality, and with that, a high price tag.

Pros
Sheepskin cover adds a modern touch to a traditional motorcycle seat cushion material
Bottom attachment system is well-designed and durable
USA-manufactured with USA-grown wool

Cons
Prone to hanging on to off smells
Natural wool is not waterproof
High price tag

9. Best Beaded Motorcycle Seat Cushion: Regway Wood Beaded Seat Cushion

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Why we like it: These wooden, vintage-style seat cushions aren’t just cheap, they also provide phenomenal airflow and come in a two-pack.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Beading
Cover Material: Wood
Seat Style: Cruisers
Extra Features: Pack of Two, Water-Resistant
A unique type of seat cushion, these small wooden beads are loved by some and hated by others. Although they provide a kind of massaging sensation and maintain good airflow, many riders have complaints that they feel a bit too slippery. They attach via a bungee-cord style hook, which makes them easy to install, but not particularly permanent. At least the attachment system is universal; we also appreciate the fact that the budget-priced cushion comes in a two-pack.
Admittedly, though, they’re for low-riding cruisers with wide seats. This seat cushion won’t fit sportbikes, adventure-tourers, or even most motorcycles with pillion seats, as it slides around. The wood itself isn’t particularly durable, though, and the wooden beads are prone to breaking. If you ride a lowrider, bobber, chopper, or a cruiser, though, this cover can be very comfortable for you. And for an incredibly economical price, you’ll get phenomenal cooling potential.

Pros
Free-rolling beads are the preferred form factor for some riders
Provide a massaging sensation during use
Great cooling potential
Two-pack of covers comes at an economical price

Cons
Wood beads are prone to breakage
Won’t fit sport bikes, pillion seats, or adventure tourers
Wood mat sometimes slides around during use
Bungee-style hook straps aren’t particularly permanent or durable

10. Best Seat Cushion for Pillion Passengers: Airhawk Small Pillion Motorcycle Seat Pad

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Why we like it: This small inflatable pillion seat is a simple, universal cushion for ride-along passengers that need a little added comfort.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Separated Mesh
Seat Style: Pillion Seat, Universal
Extra Features: Non-slip base material
A common complaint among passengers who ride on the back of a motorcycle is how uncomfortable it can be. The back part of a seat designed for pillion passengers is typically smaller, made of a different material, and less supportive than the primary seat, causing problems for anyone traveling long distances on the back of a bike.
So what’s to be done? Well, a seat cushion goes a really long way. This 9 by 11-inch pad is small but mighty, with a non-slip base material preventing the inflatable (and thus, adjustable) cushion from sliding around too much. With 12 separate air cells all inflatable and made of durable polyurethane, the pad conforms to the seat. It attaches with loops that create a more sturdy base than many pillion cushions that just set on top of the seat without an attachment method.

Pros
Small pillion cushion is meant for a second passenger
12 durable air cells made of durable polyurethane
Pad conforms to the seat, meaning it doesn’t slip around much
Attaches with loops that create a sturdy base around the seat

Cons
Can’t really be used for a single passenger
Less comfortable than cushions for primary seats

Guide to Buying the Best Motorcycle Cushions for 2020
While some people claim to like the clean look of a motorcycle seat without a cushion, we’re more on the side of ‘stay comfortable.’ Those who frown upon a motorcycle cushion are probably the same type of people who do nothing more than take their cafe racer around the corner to drink an espresso (not that there’s anything wrong with that).
Those who head out on motorcycles for long trips understand that often, comfort takes priority over fashion. Adventure isn’t about fashion, it’s about adventure, and that means you can’t be held back by a sore butt.
Benefits of a Motorcycle Cushion
There’s a great saying about where to spend your money: “Always invest in your bed and your shoes, if you’re not in one, you’re in the other.” Another contact point worth investing in? A motorcycle seat cushion, and it’s not just about comfort.
More Time on the Bike
Have you ever been in a group where it feels like you’re stopping at every exit? If you’re comfortable, it means more time on the seat, which means more miles and more adventure. Make sure you’re still taking occasional breaks, a good rule is a break once every couple of hours.
Postural Health
A supportive postural seat cushion can help align the entire body, aiding with everything from numb legs to back and wrist pain. It’s surprising how effective a seat cushion, especially one designed with ergonomics in mind like the Wehope Seat Air Cushion Pad for Cruiser Motorcycles can be at relieving pains across the whole body.
Blood Flow
Studies have shown that the typical motorcycle seat isn’t just uncomfortable, but it also can restrict blood flow to the undercarriage. Take care of your delicate bits, it’s not worth gambling on medical issues.
Temperature Regulation
All motorcyclists have had really hot days on the bike, made worse by wearing the proper personal protective equipment. Along with dressing in wicking clothes and staying hydrated, a seat cushion with proper ventilation and airflow like the Airhawk R-Revb Cruiser R Large Motorcycle Seat Cushion can go a long way towards keeping you cool.
Posture When Riding

Motorcycling is a lot harder on the body than rolling along in a minivan, and for some, that’s part of the appeal. Physical therapists and body experts all have opinions and exercises that can be particularly helpful to comfort on the bike and to reduce soreness and pain after the ride.
Back Posture
The most important part of motorcycle posture is how you hold your core and your back. Make sure you’re keeping your core still, and engaged, with your shoulders back and upright. This will improve both visibility and comfort. Maintain a slight arch with your back, which will help keep your core stretched and comfortable. Imagine that a string is coming out of the top of your head, helping align and keep your posture neutral.
Many issues with pain while sitting and with long-term back pain on the motorcycle can be solved after a rider learns how to hold themselves on the motorcycle properly.
Where to Sit on a Motorcycle Seat
Also important to pay attention to is exactly where you sit on the motorcycle, with the goal being to keep the bike as balanced as possible. Your weight should be directly above the footpegs, with some weight on your feet and little to no weight on your arms. When you encounter rough terrain or a bump, you should be able to effortlessly shift your weight off of the seat for control.
There’s a whole science to maximizing performance based on how you sit on your bike. If you’re interested in learning how to get the most out of your motorcycle by how you sit on the motorcycle, check out this article that discusses the best way to sit on your bike for speed, control, and comfort.
Health Concerns and Motorcycle Seats
Some research shows that most motorcycle seats can restrict blood flow to the genital area, which can lead to a whole host of health issues, most commonly urinary flow issues, nerve damage, loss of sensation, and erectile dysfunction. Motorcycling is risky enough even without the risk of impotence, so any investment you can make in your health is worth it.
Along with a motorcycle seat cushion designed to relieve pressure, take frequent breaks, avoid thin seats, and sit with proper posture to avoid any negative health consequences.
Other Motorcycle Products to Consider
The world of motorcycle accessories is vast, and for good reason, as many clever products exist to make riding more fun, more comfortable, and safer. Consider picking up some of the following products listed below that will make your motorcycling trip the best one yet.
Motorcycle Locks: While it’s probably not worth it to lock up your seat cushion, it is a wise investment to invest in chain locks, wheel locks, and frame locks to keep your investment (and prized possession) completely safe.
Motorcycle Tires: Often overlooked when talking about comfort, tires are left in the wake of suspension and engine performance when talking about both performance and staying comfy. A good tire can make your ride faster and make your bike more bearable during long hauls.
Motorcycle Goggles: Often, motorcycle goggles are overlooked as a PPE option, but many find them more comfortable and breathable than traditional visors (or even worse, no eye protection at all).
Motorcycle Glasses: While a pair of sunglasses is better than nothing, you really need a pair of motorcycle-specific glasses for adequate protection and comfort. Best part? A lot of them are less expensive than standard Ray-Bans or Oakleys.
FAQ
Check out some of motorcyclists’ most common questions on seat cushions below.
What’s the Best Material for a Motorcycle Seat Cushion?
Different riders want different materials when picking out a motorcycle seat cushion, but the most popular type of seat cushions are probably inflatable air-matrix options. Unfortunately, though, that popularity could be due to the fact that air is free. Our favorite material is layered mesh due to the fact that it’s pressure-relieving, cooling, and supportive.
How Do I Keep My Motorcycle Seat Cool?
Every motorcyclist knows the feeling: stop at a restaurant, biker bar, or a gas station, and when you come back out your black leather seat is hot enough to fry an egg. There are a couple of ways to combat the phenomenon, some simple (park in the shade) and some expensive (buy a mesh seat cover).
Our advice? Minimize sun contact when possible, look for mesh-covered, air-filled cushions (this cushion from Wehope has both), and wear long pants that cover your entire leg. Staying cool is about staying smart.
Do Gel Pads Make Motorcycle Seats More Comfortable?
Gel pads are pretty phenomenal for comfort, although they have some problems, predominantly support. While they’re nice for your posterior, they don’t do the same job as articulated air chambers or foam in aligning the spine. So yes, they make the seat more comfortable, but we’d recommend foam, mesh, or air for a good balance of comfort and support.
Wrapping Up
We’ve really run the gamut of motorcycle cushions, providing you with the expensive, the inexpensive, the sturdy, the natural, the classics, and more. At the end of the day, keep in mind that a seat cushion isn’t just a way to make your ride more comfortable: it can help you with postural and medical issues and even provide some protection from wear and tear against the factory seat. For a price that is typically a small fraction of what your motorcycle itself is worth, it’s well worth the investment. More

While a motorcycle is arguably one of the best ways to experience the country, when you’ve got to transport one from place to place without riding it, things get more complicated. Towing a motorcycle is no small endeavor, but it can be made much easier by using a proper motorcycle trailer.
The most important thing to consider when purchasing a motorcycle trailer is how you’ll be using it. Are you buying a trailer for a one-time trip? Are you a competitive motocrosser frequently headed to the track? Do you have a heavy cruiser or a lightweight 125cc city bike that can fit on a hitch-mount rack? Carefully consider how often you plan to tow, your type of motorcycle, and your objectives with a trailer before purchasing one.

Picking the Perfect Trailer
Even before starting to shop around for your first trailer, there are some vital things you’ve got to take into account related to your towing vehicle and motorcycle. Knowing the following stats will make it a lot easier to narrow down your options:
Motorcycle Weight: You’re not going to fit your half-ton Harley Super Glide onto a hitch-mounted rack, and you don’t need an enclosed trailer for a 125cc dirtbike from 1997. Remember: pick the right tool for the job
Motorcycle Dimensions: Rear racks typically have a maximum wheelbase of around 80 inches, and tow-behind trailers are no longer than they have to be. If you’ve got a trike or a chopper, be aware that you have different length requirements than other motorcyclists.
Towing Capacity: As a general rule, towing capacity is overstated by manufacturers, and make sure you’re adding in the weight of the vehicle itself along with its passengers and cargo. This means that while a crossover might claim 1500 pounds of towing capacity, once fully loaded up, actual towing capacity could be a lot closer to 500 pounds.
Type of Hitch: Most tow-behind trailers in this category (trailers for consumer vehicles) are designed around a two-inch ball hitch. Hitch mount racks are typically designed for class three receivers, with some class two and class four designs.
Features to Consider in a Motorcycle Trailer
The options for a motorcycle trailer are almost as broad as the options for a motorcycle itself. Whether you’re looking for something simple for one-time use on a cross-country move, or you need something to haul your dirt bikes to races every weekend, there are a wide variety of options that can work for you.
Trailer Format
Motorcycle trailers come in many different shapes and sizes for different needs, price points, and vehicles. The following types of trailers and racks are the most common types of motorcycle trailers available.
Fully Enclosed Trailers
For those inclined to treat their two-wheeled friend like the family, the best option is a fully covered trailer. While larger, heavier, and more expensive than other options, fully-enclosed trailers are much more protective than other options and can resist the rain, snow, dirt, and wind. Another benefit is their storage capacity: with enclosed trailers, there’s plenty of space to put accessories, luggage, panniers, toolboxes, and anything else you need to haul
Hitch-Mounted Trailers
Some lightweight motorcycles can be lifted onto a hitch-mounted trailer which slides directly into a trailer hitch. There are a couple of downsides, though, including the fact that they only support a limited amount of weight. These trailers forgo wheels entirely, suspending motorcycles up above the road.
Front Wheel Toe Brackets
Front-wheel toe brackets hook to just the front wheel of a motorcycle, virtually converting the motorcycle itself into a trailer. While they’re inexpensive, they leave the motorcycle exposed to the elements and put a significant amount of weight on the rear tire, causing a lot of wear.
Folding Trailers
Folding trailers are designed to be folded up and tucked out of the way. By adding the proper hardware, these trailers can be set up to haul motorcycles long distances. They’re both lightweight and reliable, but a bit more expensive.
Flat-Bed Trailer
A classic flat-bed style trailer isn’t only versatile in the way that it carries multiple types of cargo, it’s also versatile in that it can be formatted to carry either one or multiple motorcycles. They’re slightly more protective than folding trailers because a solid floor can block rocks from getting kicked up and scratching your motorcycle, but they still don’t protect from the weather.
Capacity
While the typical motorcycle trailer only holds one bike, other motorcycle trailer formats can carry two. Larger, fully-enclosed trailers (and sometimes folding trailers) can hold up to four motorcycles, although that’s rare and requires a truck meant for towing bigger loads.
Weight Limit
Pay special attention to a trailer’s weight limit depending on what kind of motorcycle you ride. Although some trailers (especially hitch-mounted options) can only hold a few hundred pounds, others can carry multiples of the biggest bikes: even a few Harley Super Sports won’t be an issue for the biggest flatbed or enclosed trailers.
With all of that in mind, let’s get in to our picks for the best trailers available today, whether you’re planning on daily transportation, a one-time cross country trip, or anything in between.

Top 10 Best Motorcycle Trailers 2020
1. Best Overall Motorcycle Trailer: Kendon Go! Series Single Rail Ride-Up Folding Motorcycle Trailer

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Why we like it: This trailer is easy to load and has a high weight capacity, meaning it’s perfect for those with slightly larger motorcycles who are looking for the best product possible.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Folding Trailer
Capacity: One
Weight Limit: 1,000 lbs
In a world of motorcycle trailers meant for lightweight bikes or requiring modification, this trailer from manufacturer Kendon takes care of everything for you, admittedly at a premium price. However, for those with standard-sized motorcycles that are willing to pay for the best, this trailer is a phenomenal option.
A full 1,000 pound capacity will take care of just about every stock motorcycle on the road (even a Honda Goldwing weighs in at under 1,000 pounds) except for trikes, which won’t fit on this format of trailer anyways due to their ultra-wide rear ends—something like the Carry-On 5×8 Open Mesh Floor Utility Trailer would be better there.
It supports all of this weight on a 360-pound platform, lightweight and maneuverable enough to be hauled even by smaller SUVs and minivans (car models like the Toyota Rav4 and Honda CRV have towing capacities of about 1,500 lbs).
You’ll still want to use some tie-downs to secure the motorcycle in place, but it’s one of the most secure options on the market, and that’s by design. With lots of less-than-stellar options out there, most motorcycle owners with beloved bikes will be more than willing to splurge an extra few hundred dollars to make sure their motorcycle stays perfectly in place.
Loading
What really pushes this trailer to the top of our list is the ease of loading: not only does it fold up after use for easy and compact stowing away, it’s also specially designed to be easy to load. A wide ramp enables you to drive your motorcycle directly up onto the trailer into the chock that holds your bike upright. The ramp is longer, yielding a lower load angle that enables this. Especially with heavier bikes, this feature is incredibly convenient.

Pros
Fantastic ease of loading
Trailer folds up for compact storage
Holds motorcycle upright in place
Full 1000 pound capacity holds even the biggest motorcycles

Cons
Trikes won’t fit on this trailer due to their wide rear axles
Still requires use of tie-downs

2. Easiest Motorcycle Trailer to Use: Goplus 600 Pound Motorcycle Carrier with Loading Ramp

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Why we like it: This simple hitch-mounted trailer is one of the sturdiest axle-less options out there, supporting bikes up to 600 pounds with no issues and incorporating an easy-to-use loading ramp.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Hitch Mount
Capacity: One
Weight Limit: 600 lbs
While most hitch racks only support a few hundred pounds of weight, this model from Goplus is a monster among hitch-mounted trailers, holding up to 600 pounds of brawny bike, beating out even some tow-behind flatbed trailers. While the weight limit is impressive, make sure to use a tie-down strap in addition to the two included quick releases, and to keep your speed under the manufacturer-suggested maximum 55 miles per hour.
The rack mounts directly into a 2” receiver (no ball mount required as with other trailers), suspended about a foot over the surface of the road. It’s 79 inches long, which will accommodate even the longest wheelbase motorcycles. There’s a vehicle chock welded in the rack tray to help support the bike vertically.
There’s one drawback, though: the weight limit isn’t a true 600 pounds. As far as holding weight while standing still, this bike can hold up a brawny liter bike all day. However, Goplus (the manufacturer) only provides a static weight limit, meaning when driving down the highway, heading over rough terrain, or accelerating, the weight limit is probably somewhat lower. If you want to be cautious, keep your loads under 450 pounds or upgrade to something with a truer limit like the Yescom 800 lbs Motorcycle Trailer Hitch Hauler.
Loading
Of all the hitch-mount options on our list, this trailer is probably the easiest to load thanks to a wide, stable loading ramp. Sure, you’re still pushing 550 pounds of metal up a relatively steep incline if you’ve got a big bike like a Harley Sportster, but at least a wide track makes the rolling relatively stable. If you’re loading a motorcycle over 300 pounds, it’s probably best to make sure you’ve got a spotter in the immediate area.

Pros
Incredibly stable to load thanks to a wide loading ramp
79-inch tray size accommodates long-wheelbase motorcycles
Vehicle chock welded in rack tray for support
2-inch receiver doesn’t use a ball mount

Cons
Weight limit isn’t truly 600 pounds
55 MPH maximum speed limit
Requires spotter for loading

3. Best Budget Motorcycle Trailer: Yescom 800 lbs Motorcycle Trailer Hitch Hauler

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Why we like it: A clever and proprietary design solves weight, length, and towing problems by turning the bike itself into an inexpensive trailer that attaches directly to the hitch.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Front Wheel Toe Bracket
Capacity: One
Weight Limit: 800 lbs
This motorcycle trailer is completely different from anything else on the market with a unique design that lifts the front wheel of the motorcycle onto the back of your car, securely towing your bike without any extra wheels or axles. It’s the lightest and most minimal option out there, threading into a two inch hitch receiver and weighing in at just over 30 pounds.
If you’re planning on using this with a moped, though, you’re out of luck. Since it relies on the rear wheel to roll freely along the road, you need a neutral gear, which mopeds simply don’t have. In that same vein, make sure you put your motorcycle in neutral before using this rack. If not, you could completely burn out your tire.
Even if you use it properly, you’ll cause undue wear on your tire as it directly comes in contact with the road during trips both short and long. You also leave your motorcycle directly in contact with the elements when using this rack, as you can’t fit a moving motorcycle with a cover and there’s no flatbed trailer below to protect the bikes undercarriage from flying debris. Fortunately, motorcycles are made to hold up to weather and debris, and thousands of miles of use—just make sure you lube your chain afterwards if you happen to hit a rain shower.
Loading
While this rack is based on an incredibly clever idea, there are some problems that come with loading and transporting. Unlike motorcycle trailers with ramp-based loading systems, this rack requires the front end of the bike to be physically lifted onto the trailer, something that is difficult with heavier bikes (think about purchasing a motorcycle scissor lift to help out).
Another issue that comes with the territory is maximum tire size; this rack doesn’t fit anything bigger than 4 ⅞ inches, different from the owner’s manual which states it holds tires up to 5 ⅞ inches. If your bike has larger tires, check out something like the Black Widow Hitch-Mounted Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier instead, which accommodates a much wider variety of sizes.

Pros
Proprietary, clever design turns your motorcycle into a trailer
Entire setup only weighs about 30 lbs
Impressive 800 lbs weight limit

Cons
Doesn’t hold tires larger than 4 ⅞ inches
Can’t protect your bike from the elements or from road debris
Requires the bike to be physically lifted up to mount

4. Best Premium Motorcycle Trailer: Trinity MT3 Three Rail Motorcycle Trailer

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Why we like it: An expensive but rare three-motorcycle option, this motorcycle trailer is sturdy and specifically designed to be motorcycle-ready out of the box.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Flatbed Trailer
Capacity: 3
Weight Limit: 2,000 lbs
While a hitch-based rack mount is convenient for even mid-weight motorcycles, it has a distinct disadvantage: they can only hold a single motorcycle. This flatbed addresses that issue, providing a fantastic capacity in a sub-500 pound format, hauling 3 separate motorcycles staggered on the single flatbed trailer.
While most other conventional flatbed trailers require you to install motorcycle mounting chocks yourself, this trailer comes delivered to your door completely ready to go. A 2000-pound weight limit is more than adequate for nearly every combination of motorcycles (unless you’re towing 3 Harley Road Glides), and many drivers will find themselves restricted by the towing capacity over their vehicle over the weight capacity of the trailer itself.
There are some flaws, however. The bearings, axles, and dust caps come installed but really need some level of service, lubrication, and thread lock (like LocTite) before taking on a long voyage. We wish the manufacturer would take care of the details before delivery, but once it’s good to go, it’s a solid trailer for many thousands of miles. One last note: due to state trailer licensing requirements, be advised that this trailer isn’t available for purchase in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, ID, ME, MT, ND, NH, NV, OR, SD, UT, VT, WA, and WY.
Loading
This trailer is surprisingly compact (and lightweight) for being a 3-motorcycle trailer, and although it’s particularly easy to maneuver, especially for beginners, it has the unfortunate side effect of being difficult to load. Space is simply at a premium in this trailer format, and 5 by 7 feet of space isn’t much. Obviously smaller displacement bikes are easier to load, but bigger bikes are more limited by space than by the trailer’s high weight limit. It’ll do the job, but if you regularly transport multiple bikes you might find the Carry-On 5×8 Open Mesh Floor Utility Trailer easier to use.

Pros
Compact and lightweight three-motorcycle trailer
Easy to tow for beginners
High weight capacity will hold all but the heaviest bikes
Trailer is delivered completely ready to go

Cons
Isn’t available for purchase or delivery in several states
Bearings and axles need some love before heading out on long trips
Difficult to load multiple motorcycles

5. Cotric 600 lbs Black Steel Motorcycle Carrier Mount Dirt Bike Rack

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Why we like it: This sturdy hitch-mount rack is an inexpensive solution that can hold motorcycles weighing up to 600 pounds, loading with a convenient flip-down ramp.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Hitch-Mounted Trailer
Capacity: 1
Weight Limit: 600 lbs
One of our biggest issues with hitch-mounted trailers? Durability. All the weight relies on a single point to stay upright, not like with axle-based trailers that have wheels to support their weight. But this steel, powder-coated hitch-mounted is one of the most solid hitch-based options, made of a solid steel track coated with an anti-rust paint.
A 79-inch rail is long enough for even the longest of cruisers, and an adjustable wheel chock means that even shorter and smaller motorcycles can be adequately supported. Your motorcycle is locked in via several quick-release locks that thread through your motorcycle’s wheels and frame, although we’d still recommend a tie-down strap or two just as a fail-safe in case the quick releases wear out or fail.
Watch out for the fact that the rack is delivered inside of two separate packages that may not arrive at the same time, so if you end up with just half of a rack, wait a few days before panicking. And should you need any help, have confidence that a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee covers any issue you might have, from order placement through installation.
Loading
Although this rack’s loading ramp isn’t as wide or as easy to use as the Goplus 600 Pound Motorcycle Carrier’s loading ramp, it’s still relatively user friendly, especially when compared to trailers that aren’t motorcycle specific and require modification or the extensive use of tie-down straps. All in all, it’s one of the easiest trailers to load, especially with lightweight motorcycles.

Pros
Adjustable wheel chock and strong rail helps support all types of motorcycles
79-inch rail is long enough for even long-wheelbase motorcycles
One of the easiest trailers to load
100% customer satisfaction guarantee

Cons
Still requires a tie-down for security
Loading ramp isn’t particularly wide or easy-to-use
Delivered in two separate packages

6. Black Widow MCC-600 Steel Motorcycle Carrier

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Why we like it: This premium 600-pound motorcycle carrier is simple to use and fits directly into a trailer hitch, no wheels or axles required.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Hitch Mount
Capacity: 1
Weight Limit: 600 lbs
This ramp-loading hitch-mount rack from Black Widow is one of the most expensive hitch-mount options, with a price justified by a high weight limit and a sturdy build quality. The metal tray fits large bikes with wheels up to 8 inches wide and up to 600 pounds. It’s designed to fit Class Three or 2-inch hitch receivers.
And while it’s a pretty solid motorcycle hauler, it falls to the same drawbacks as all hitch-mounted racks: namely, a difficult loading process, a less-than-stellar weight limit, and no auxiliary storage. And while it’s rated to 600 pounds, we’d be a bit more cautious: lean light, especially if you’ve got accessories and a full tank of gas.
Our recommendation would be to keep your total load under 500 pounds if you can, with a bit of wiggle room. That’s not to say that this rack will drop your bike as you roll down the highway, just that the more weight you have, the more likely it is that you’ll break the smaller accessory pieces (hooks, ratchets, and screws).
So while those looking for something to bring their dirt bike to the motocross track might see a perfect candidate in this rack, Harley riders with big cruisers might think about something a bit more brawny: a flatbed like the Kendon Go! Series Trailer simply suits bigger bikes better.
Loading
Loading bikes, especially hitch-mount variations, is always a bit inconvenient. A small trailer format without a rear axle simply doesn’t lend itself to convenient loading, even if it does have a ramp that allows you to roll the motorcycle directly onto the travel tray. Heavier bikes are more likely to scratch the tray paint and be harder on hardware, so the anti-rust coating and metal hardware is particularly welcome in this case.

Pros
Durable and solid tray holds heavyweight bikes with just a hitch
Loads with a convenient fold-down ramp
Metal hardware and anti-rust coating helps protect the tray
Fits Class Three and 2-inch receivers

Cons
Flatbed ramps are easier to use for loading
Smaller accessory pieces are slightly more likely to break under a large load
No auxiliary storage for saddlebags, equipment, or tools

7. Best Rack for Dirt Bikes: Black Widow Hitch-Mounted Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier

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Why we like it: This lighter-weight hitch-mounted trailer is particularly economical, although a 400-pound weight limit means that it’s more suitable for dirt bikes than for touring bikes, Harleys, and dual-sport options.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Hitch Mount
Capacity: One
Weight Limit: 400 pounds
This hitch mount trailer is an absolute featherweight at well under 40 pounds with a full aluminum construction, although that means it does sacrifice a bit in terms of weight capacity: the rack tops out at carrying just about 400 pounds. But while other racks claim high capacities and really need a lighter-weight motorcycle to work properly, this rack’s 400 pound limit is totally accurate.
The welded aluminum rack simply feels solid, mounting into Class Three or Class Four hitch receivers. It’s great for dirt bikes as it accommodates tires up to 5 ½ inches wide, which are typically seen on motorcycles meant for motocross. The loading ramp is wide for easy storage and loading, but has punched holes in the metal, yielding significant weight savings.
The trailer also comes with an adapter that can hold smaller 50cc to 80cc motorcycles that are commonly meant for children to ride and learn on. It’s a nice feature, especially considering the fact that most trailers have trouble accommodating these ultra-small motorcycles.
Loading
A quite-small 400-pound weight limit yields a rack that feels rather flimsy, but the included ramp is easy to use, especially with lightweight bikes, feeling just as solid, if not more solid than the rack itself. A word of caution, though, that this isn’t compatible with class two hitches, the type of hitch that’s most common for crossovers and lighter vehicles.

Pros
Lightweight hitch mount rack is under 40 pounds installed
Loading ramp is wide and sturdy for easy loading
Accommodates larger format tires of up to 5.5 inches
Includes an adapter for smaller motorcycles

Cons
Not compatible with class two hitches
Tops out at a 400-pound weight capacity

8. Best for Trikes: Carry-On 5×8 Open Mesh Floor Utility Trailer

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Why we like it: While this flatbed trailer isn’t specifically designed for motorcycle use, it’s a phenomenal option that can be adapted into a motorcycle-specific hauler for around $1000.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Flatbed Trailer
Capacity: Three
Weight Limit: 1600 lbs
As a trailer designed to haul farm equipment, UTVs, and ATVs, this trailer isn’t immediately ready for motorcycle use like more expensive trailers such as the Trinity MT3 Three Rail Motorcycle Trailer. But for a couple thousand dollars less, there are plenty of mechanically savvy motorcycle owners that are probably willing to do the job.
There are a few different approaches to loading this with motorcycles: the most simple, impermanent, and least secure option is using multiple inexpensive tie-downs to both prop the motorcycle up and hold it in place. We wouldn’t recommend this method for use during high speed, long-distance trips, and although it’s cheap, a more permanent option is prudent if you’ll be using this trailer specifically to haul motorcycles.
While cinching the motorcycle down is still prudent, screw in a permanent wheel chock (this option includes tie-downs) that will maintain your front wheel tightly in place. It’s not only more secure, but it’s safer and more convenient as well. This trailer ends up being a phenomenal option for trikes as well, as the wide trailer fits wide rear axles, and a high weight limit can handle even the brawniest of ¾-ton Harley three-wheelers.
Loading
With a back liftgate that also functions as a roll-up ramp, this is one of the simplest-to-load trailers on our list. There are two things to be aware of, though: firstly, while the frame supports about 1,600 pounds, the metal floor mesh used in this trailer is a little less durable than we’d like. When loading, you should be careful to make sure most of the motorcycle’s weight stays over the frame itself. Secondly, mind the slight gap between the loading ramp and the bed of the trailer itself—the space there is large enough for a thinner tire to get stuck, which can ruin your day (or wheel).

Pros
Customizable flatbed trailer is great for tinkerers
Mesh floor is lightweight, durable, and easy to work on
Roll-up ramp means bikes are easy to load
High weight limit can handle bigger Harleys and trikes

Cons
Watch for the slight gap between the loading ramp and the bed of the trailer
Mesh floor doesn’t support weight as well as the frame itself

9. Best Enclosed Motorcycle Trailer: Proline 6×10 Enclosed Trailer

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Why we like it: This pricey 6 by 10 foot trailer is large enough to hold two motorcycles, although it requires some modifications to become the motorcycle-hauler of your dreams.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Fully Enclosed Trailer
Capacity: 2
Weight Limit: 3,500 lbs
The first thing to know about this trailer is the fact that it’s not a motorcycle-specific trailer. But in some ways, that’s what makes it great. The benefit of this bare-bones platform is the fact that you can set it up to your exact specifications, whether you want just one large, solid berth for a trike or several smaller ones for lightweight, nimble dirt bikes.
In fact, it’s one of the most adaptable trailers out there, with hardware meant to be customized with different tie-down locations and with a ¾ inch plywood floor that’s practically designed for the easy installation of accessories. Even motorcycle riders that head to the mechanic for an oil change will find trailer modification easy enough to tackle themselves.
An impressive near-two-ton load limit inspires complete confidence in the platform, while the single-axle design comes complete with 15-inch radial tires that are more than equipped to handle those kinds of loads. It has a lit interior that connects through the vehicle end trailer port, there are also bright brake lights and running lights. A 32-inch side door is convenient for quick access, and there’s plenty of space for storing motorcycle bags, panniers, accessories, and tool boxes.
Loading
With a drop-down ramp, motorcycles can be simply rolled up into the trailer, although the fact that the product doesn’t come specifically equipped with motorcycle-specific brackets means you’ll have to invest some time and effort upfront to make it work for your needs. The ramp is shallow enough that you can ride bikes straight into the trailer, although watch out for the small gap between the loading ramp and the floor of the trailer itself.

Pros
Adaptable trailer is sturdy and easy to load
Designed for installation and customization
Drop down ramp allows trailers to be easily loaded
Bare bones platform lowers price but makes it easy to add your own touches

Cons
Need to add your own motorcycle-specific brackets for compatibility
Gap between loading ramp and the trailer floor is difficult to navigate

10. Motogroup Aluminum Double Motorcycle Carrier

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Why we like it: This is the perfect rack if you don’t want a wheeled trailer and you’re headed to the track with a couple of small capacity dirt bikes, which admittedly isn’t everybody.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Hitch Mount
Capacity: Two
Weight Limit: 600 lbs
This rack is cool, the only hitch mount solution on the market that can hold more than two motorcycles. Although the weight capacity isn’t stellar, it’s great for someone who’s hauling small bikes around, or even kids bikes around. It could work for mopeds as well, so if you’re a multi-moped owner, this rack could work well.
Along with a 600-pound weight limit, watch out for the rack length, which is quite a bit smaller than typical at 75 inches. While this isn’t a problem for dirt bikes, some smaller capacity cruiser-style motorcycles can measure a bit longer, meaning they won’t be compatible with this rack. Check your bikes’ spec sheets before buying.
However, that isn’t our biggest issue with this rack. Our problem, frankly, is the fact that the use case with this towing solution is so specific you might as well just get a real wheeled trailer with a bigger weight limit and much better capacity. Unless every motorcycle you plan to own is under 300 pounds, a better option might be a trailer like the Proline 6×10 Enclosed Trailer.
Loading
Loading multiple bikes, even lightweight ones, is downright tricky no matter how much experience you have or how solid your stand is. And frankly, this stand is not the most sturdy in our lineup with aluminum construction. Both sides of the rack rely on the same ramp, a 45-inch skid that yields a relatively steep load angle. Good thing you can only get light bikes up there, because pushing bikes close to the weight limit up onto the rack is a chore.

Pros
Perfect rack for bringing lightweight bikes around
Only hitch-mount rack that holds multiple bikes
A good option for hauling mopeds

Cons
Loading with the steep ramp is a chore
Use case for the trailer is really specific
Short rack tray might not work with some lightweight bikes

Guide to Buying the Best Motorcycle Trailers for 2020
Purchasing a motorcycle trailer is a big decision, as you’re trusting it to keep one of your most important and expensive possessions safe as you drive down the road. Just as you wouldn’t cut corners on motorcycle parts, accessories, or services, don’t cut corners on your motorcycle trailer either.
Safety Practices

It’s important to educate yourself on how to use a motorcycle trailer. The safest and most secure motorcycle hauler isn’t adequate when in the wrong hands. Familiarize yourself with all of the safety features and fail-safes of your trailer before use, or you could end up in a dangerous (and expensive) situation.
Towing a big load is both more dangerous and more difficult than driving your car without a trailer. With added weight and length, your car handles differently, your braking distance increases, and you have to work to predict traffic and think ahead as you drive down the road. Follow these tips to stay safe while driving.
Properly Connected Tail Lights
Almost any motorcycle trailer completely obscures the tail lights on your vehicle, meaning you’ll need a set of lights on the trailer itself to stay both legal and safe. Make a habit to plug your lights into the power outlet next to your trailer hitch every time you hook your trailer up, it’s also a good practice to make sure you regularly check that your trailer brake lights are working properly.
Emergency Brake
All trailers are subject to federal safety requirements, key among them legislation to ensure every trailer has a functioning breakaway trailer function. When hooking up your trailer, make sure to attach your emergency breakaway brake wire to the car itself, which will automatically stop the car from moving in case of a catastrophic trailer hitch or trailer failure.
Maintenance Schedule
As far as checks, lube, tire pressure, and other routine checks, the more, the better, but it’s easy to get carried away. Although you should definitely check tire pressure, breakaway chains, lights, safety chains, and your hitch every time you drive, follow this maintenance calendar for the best guidance on more long-term routine maintenance.
Runaway Chains
While a properly-maintained ball hitch combined with a breakaway emergency brake can prevent about 99% of trailer-related accidents, it’s important to have another layer of security just in case. Make sure your trailer has well-maintained runaway chains that connect to your hauling vehicle at least a quarter-inch thick. Also ensure that your chains are short enough so that they drag on the road below, as chains can wear through even during drives of 30 minutes or less when dragging on the ground below.
Setting Up a Trailer
Most flatbed, folding, and framed trailers don’t come set up by themselves for motorcycle hauling, although they’re designed and formatted to be compatible with the accessories needed to safely tow motorcycles like chocks, mounts, and tie downs. Take the following steps to set up a flatbed, folding, or framed trailer.
Install a Chock: While you can get away without a chock for slow, short distance trips, if you’re going to head out on a longer trip, you need something to hold your motorcycle upright. If it doesn’t come included, buy a chock.
Install Anchor Points: Tie-downs need solid points to attach to or they’re worthless. If your trailer doesn’t have specific anchor points meant for tie downs, make sure to install the proper brackets or hooks so your straps can be properly attached.
Safety Checks: Axles, hitches, and wheels are the most common points of failure on a motorcycle trailer. When your trailer is delivered, make sure to perform a basic service on these trailer parts, also make sure you perform periodic services on these key parts so that your equipment is always in good working order. Your owner manual can help you determine the frequency of these check-up services.
Tire Balancing: New trailer checks are much less rigorous than new vehicle checks, meaning that your trailer might not arrive in the ideal condition to head out on the highway. Most commonly the source of instability at speed is an important step that some manufacturers skip: tire balancing. Tire balancing is inexpensive, usually under $20 per tire, and will provide an immediate impact to how your trailer maneuvers, especially when driving at higher highway speeds.
Protecting Your Motorcycle

Unless you have a completely covered trailer, your motorcycles are left exposed to the elements whenever they’re being towed. Take the following steps to make sure your motorcycle arrives at the final destination in perfect condition.
Use a Cover: A cover is the simplest and least expensive way to protect your motorcycle when hauling it on a trailer over long distances. Make sure that it’s cinched down as tight as possible for maximum fuel efficiency. Alternatively, choose a covered trailer like the Proline 6×10 Enclosed Trailer.
Drive Slow: Not only are trailers easier to control when driven at slower speeds, they’re also less likely to kick up the gravel and dirt that can damage your motorcycle.
Check Tie Downs Periodically: Even if you have a direct bracket to mount your motorcycle, you’ll probably still be using at least one tie-down to double-check security. Every couple hours of driving, check your tie-down to make sure it hasn’t loosened.
What You Need With Your Motorcycle Trailer
To maximize what you can do with your motorcycle trailer, you need a lot more than just a ball hitch. To protect and care for your bikes on longer trips, consider purchasing the following auxiliary products/accessories to provide proper care and security to your bikes.
Motorcycle Locks
While it’s a great practice to get in the habit of using a motorcycle lock every time you pull in the driveway, it’s even more important when traveling. Opportunistic thieves can accomplish rollaway thefts in under one minute, quick enough to nab your expensive bike when you’re in the bathroom at a gas station. Even if you’re using a locked, enclosed trailer, it’s not a bad idea to add an auxiliary lock. You can take a look at a list of our favorite motorcycle locks here.
Motorcycle Covers
Predicting weather during interstate travel is notoriously hard to do. If you don’t have an enclosed trailer, your motorcycle ends up enduring whatever conditions you end up driving through. Even in the best weather, your motorcycle is susceptible to damage from rocks and dust kicked up by other vehicles and flying debris. It’s a great idea to place an inexpensive motorcycle cover over your bike to protect your prized possession, so check out this list of motorcycle covers if you’re in the market for one.
Tie Downs
Tie-downs are one of the most important aspects of motorcycle hauling, securing your motorcycle in place onto the trailer. A catastrophic tie-down failure can mean disaster for your motorcycle and other road users, so make sure you’re purchasing a tie-down rated for the proper weight limit and verified by a trustworthy cargo certification body like the AAR (American Association of Railroads).
Motorcycle Lube
Especially if you’re not using a cover, your motorcycle lube, grease, and wax will gradually get stripped off over long drives in inclement weather. After every trailer trip, check that your bike is adequately lubed and greased. You can see some of our favorite motorcycle lubes here.
Motorcycle Lifts
No matter what type of trailer you’re using, a motorcycle lift will make loading much easier. From small format portable scissors jacks that will make loading hitch mount trailers (like this one from Goplus) ridiculously easy, to larger pneumatic lifts that you can store in an enclosed trailer, a motorcycle lift simply makes life easier for motorcycle owners. Check out our article on these ultra-convenient garage lifts.
Wrapping Up
Towing a motorcycle is serious business: when you’re hauling you have to take care not only of your prized bike, but also make sure to protect yourself other road users in the process.
No matter how big your motorcycle is or how far you’re towing, there’s a trailer out there for you. While it might require some modification to become the motorcycle-hauler of your dreams, there are plenty of safe and convenient options to get your two-wheeled friend from point to point. More

If you love RV life as much as we do, chances are you’ve already exposed your ride to the rigors of Mother Nature – and then some. Even if you’re cruising about in a top-of-the-line rig with a brand new build, your beloved RV is going to develop a few cracks and crevices in her roof sooner or later.
But don’t stress, because fixing a leaky RV roof is an easy DIY job that doesn’t require any technical skills. First things first, however, you’ll need to pick out the perfect sealant product for your needs. And that’s where our in-depth buyer’s guide and top 10 recommendations come into play.
So listen up, because we’re about to provide you with all the info you need to find the ideal sealant or coating—that way, you’ll never have to suffer through a leaky RV roof again.

Factors to Consider in RV Sealant and Coatings
Before we delve into our top ten list of RV coatings and sealants, you must understand what the key features to consider are. Keep the following points in mind when shopping for a sealant or coating to use on your rig. More information about each of these factors is in our full guide below.
Material Compatibility
Almost all RVs on the market use one of four different materials in the roof: EPDM rubber, TPO rubber, fiberglass, or aluminum. The ideal product for you depends on the material you’ve got up top, so the first thing you need to do is climb up and have a look.
Sealant or Coating
Although some products serve as an RV sealant and coating in one, that isn’t always the case. Sealants are specially designed to fill in cracks, while coatings add UV, moisture, and heat resistance to the entire surface area of the roof. Choose accordingly.
Formula Type
RV sealants and coatings come in varying formula types—silicone, urethane, and acrylic—each of which has its distinct pros and cons. See our section on sealant and coating formula types in our full guide to determine what will work best for you.
Consistency Type
RV sealants and coatings also come in three consistency types: putty (typically silicone), liquid (acrylic or urethane), and tape (varies). Each has its pros and cons, which you can learn about in our consistency type section.
Durability
All RV sealants are designed to protect your rig from the sun and the rain. Some, however, work better than others, so it’s best to opt for a highly regarded product that has a reputation for standing the test of time.
Ease of Application
Urethane and acrylic coatings may require a primer and several coats to create an effective seal, thus increasing the time and effort it takes to apply them. Silicone, on the other hand, requires just one coat, but it isn’t ideal in certain situations.
Color
RV sealants come in an array of different colors to suit most vehicles out there. Choose the closest possible color to match your rig to preserve its aesthetic appeal. If you can’t find anything appropriate, consider a paintable or transparent sealant instead.
Cost
Cost shouldn’t be a major consideration when shopping for an RV sealant. Although a premium brand could cost double that of a budget product, the difference will only be about $20 or so—and that’s nothing to spend on the long-term wellbeing of your beloved RV!
Now you have a clear idea of what to look for, let’s dive into our list.

Top 10 Best RV Roof Sealants and Coatings 2020
1. Best RV Sealant Overall: Sikaflex-221

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Why we like it: Sikaflex is the world’s most famous automotive sealant, and it works like a charm on RVs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Polyurethane Silicone
Consistency: Putty
Sealant / Coating: Sealant
Compatible With: Everything
Color: White
Size: 10 ounces
Coming in at over $1.50 per ounce (no bulk buy discounts available here), Sikaflex doesn’t come cheap, not by any stretch of the imagination. But this awesome product is worth every last penny because there’s nothing stronger out there on the market.
Ask any automotive repairer what they use to fix leaky roofs and walls, and chances are they’ll tell you Sikaflex is the way to go. And the good news is this product works just as well on your RV, allowing you to apply a permanent elastic adhesion to your roof that won’t cut or tear over time—Sikaflex is specifically designed to absorb the shocks and bumps of the road.
This brilliant product is weatherproof and works well in both hot and cold climates. Once it’s been cured, It’s even safe if it comes into contact with potable water and food.
However, be aware that the stuff has a nasty habit of spreading itself everywhere upon installation and is a massive pain to remove. Be sure to apply Sikaflex exceptionally slowly and carefully to avoid accidentally sealing a whole bunch of things you didn’t want to.
On the plus side, you can always sand it back or paint over it when you inevitably make a mess.
Pro tip: Wrap cellophane around the end of the tube and store it in the fridge and you’ll be able to reuse it many months later.

Pros
Strongest sealant on the market
Works well in all situations
Resistant to hot and cold conditions
Doesn’t cut or tear on the road
Safe for contact with drinking water or food

Cons
Very messy
Hard to remove
Expensive

2. Best Premium RV Roof Sealant and Coating: Heng’s Rubber Roof Coating

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Why we like it: This popular sealant and coating plugs up cracks and protects rubber roofs for years to come.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Acrylic
Consistency: Liquid
Sealant / Coating: Both
Compatible With: All Types of Rubber
Color: White
Size: One Gallon
Heng makes one of the most popular RV sealants and coatings for rubber roofs on the market, and it’s little wonder this product is a hit because it works incredibly well. The acrylic-based liquid slips easily into tiny crevices to seal problematic rubber roofs; it also serves as a powerful coating for enhanced UV protection. What’s more, it expands and contracts with your roof over time, which means it simply lasts longer than other products out there.
Got an issue with a leaky air-conditioner or vent? This product will sort you out in a jiffy as it’s excellent for these kinds of applications. And if you’re worried about safety, rest assured Heng make a non-polluting and non-toxic sealant that won’t make you dizzy or ill.
Although applying a primer will help the process along, it’s not strictly necessary. You could use the formula on its own and still achieve a strong seal, which dramatically reduces the time and cost of the process.
While the product costs more than most other coatings, note that it comes in a sizable one-gallon container. Therefore, if you plan to recoat your roof several times, it actually works out to be pretty good value for money.
On the downside, the acrylic formula won’t offer the same level of protection as silicone. Furthermore, it only works on rubber roofing, so give it a miss if you’re rocking fiberglass or the like.

Pros
Sealant and coating in one
Expands and contracts with your roof
Safe formula to work with
Can be done in one application
Slips into small cracks

Cons
Works better with primer
Acrylic not as good as silicone
Only works on rubber roofs

3. Best Budget RV Sealant and Coating: Dicor 501LSW-1

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Why we like it: It’ll fix stubborn cracks in EPDM rubber for a fraction of the cost of the competitors.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Self-leveling silicone
Consistency: Putty
Sealant / Coating: Sealant
Compatible With: EPDM and TPO sheeting
Color: Creamy white
Size: 10.3 fluid ounces
If budget is your primary consideration when fixing a leaky roof, the Dicor 501LSW-1 is worth considering. This affordable solution works well on air vents, pipes, and cracks and will get the job done for a minimal cost.
The product is compatible with both EDPM and TPO type rubber, meaning it’s good to go on most RV roofs. Aside from rubber, it’ll also bond to various other materials, including concrete, aluminum, fiberglass, and mortar. And don’t be put off by the fact it’s self-leveling because you rarely need to make any vertical applications when working on a roof.
This one comes in a nice creamy white color that blends seamlessly with most RV roofs, although the option is there to pick other colors if necessary.
The sealant is pretty easy to apply, typically taking five minutes once the area is ready to work with. Waterproofing requires a four-hour wait, and you’ll need to wait 48 hours in total before it’s 80% cured. The catch? You’ll have to wait a whole month before it’s fully (100%) cured.
It comes in a tiny 10-ounce tub, so grab a few if you need to do a big repair job.

Pros
Very cheap
Compatible with all standard RV roofs
Works well on various leaks
Multiple colors available

Cons
Small package size
Takes a while to cure

4. Best Multipurpose RV Sealant: Flex Seal Liquid Rubber

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Why we like it: Flex Seal Liquid Rubber works on a variety of applications aside from your RV roof.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Acrylic
Consistency: Liquid
Sealant / Coating: Both
Compatible With: Rubber
Color: White
Size: 1 gallon
It’s “like liquid rubber in a can,” as the manufacturers say, and they’re not far off the mark. This widely popular product is a hit among DYI home improvement types for its sheer versatility—you can use it to coat or seal just about any kind of rubber imaginable. Waterproofing and weatherproofing a rubber surface is super easy thanks to its spreadable liquid-like consistency, which you can roll, brush, dip, or pour all over the desired area.
Despite how simple the product may seem, it works remarkably well, sealing out air, water, and moisture with ease while preventing mildew and corrosion.
Flex Seal Liquid Rubber is safe to work with, with no flammable, toxic, or hazardous components to speak of. Feel free to use this one around plants and animals without fretting about their wellbeing.
The secret to its user-friendly success is the thin consistency, but be aware it does come with a downside. You’ll likely need to apply the product up to three times to create a satisfactory seal or coat, and that requires a substantial amount of extra time and effort.

Pros
Versatile product suitable for multiple purposes
Easy to use liquid with a thin consistency
Effective at preventing moisture, mildew, and corrosion
Safe product to work with, even around plants and animals

Cons
Requires up to three coats for optimal effectiveness

5. Best RV Tape Sealant: EternaBond RSW-2-50 RoofSeal Sealant Tape

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Why we like it: While it won’t compete with liquid sealants, this works better than any other tape on the market.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Consistency: Tape
Sealant / Coating: Sealant
Compatible With: Everything
Color: White
Size: 2″ x 50″
Although liquid and putty-style sealants tend to be the most effective, tape is an option when the affected area is nice and flat. And as you might expect, it’s a whole lot easier to apply than an ultra-sticky putty or gooey liquid.
Several sealant tapes are available on the market, many of which will work well on the roof of your RV. But the product that stands out from the crowd for its superior sealing properties is the EternaBond RSW-2-50 from RoofSeal.
EternaBond consists of a clever concoction of synthetic resins, thermoplastics, non-curing rubber, and a primer. The result is a high elongation level that allows it to contract and expand without compromising its adhesiveness. While the white finish works wonders at reflecting sunlight, it will appear a little odd if you don’t have a white car.
If you weren’t aware, with tape, you still have to clean the surface thoroughly with Isopropyl Alcohol. But once that’s done and dusted, all that’s left to do is peel off the protective silicone lining and carefully position the tape in place.
A word of warning, though: the stuff is super susceptible to the elements. Don’t use this on a wet day, and keep your RV in a sheltered place for at least a week after the application. Otherwise, you could inadvertently trap water droplets underneath the tape, which will eventually cause it to fray and decay.
If you don’t think two inches will be wide enough, rest assured the product comes in four and six-inch variations as well.

Pros
Excellent sealing properties
Easy to use and can be applied in minutes
Contracts and expands without losing adhesiveness
White finish reflects sunlight
Available in multiple sizes

Cons
Not as powerful as liquids or putties
Only works well on flat surfaces
Highly susceptible to water and snow

6. Best RV Roof Rubber Coating: KST Coating Elastomeric Finish Coat

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Why we like it: It does a superb job of blocking out any potential leaks before they occur.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Acrylic resin
Consistency: Liquid
Sealant / Coating: Coating
Compatible With: Rubber
Color: White
Size: 4.75 gallon
“Prevention is better than cure,” as the old saying goes. And rather than waiting for a hole to appear in an RV roof and water to start gushing through, savvy RVers apply a protective coating ahead of time to stop cracks in their tracks.
While RV sealants work wonders at filling in holes and gaps, RV roof coatings are designed to be applied over the entire roof to strengthen its integrity. KST doesn’t lose adhesiveness in adverse weather and will expand and contract to retain optimal flexibility.
A high-quality coating such as this will enhance the UV and water-resistant properties of your roof thanks to its potent elastomeric finish. Furthermore, this outstanding American-made product protects against algae, mildew, mold, and moisture, making it ideal for folks in hot and humid environments—it’s a big hit in Florida, for example.
The manufacturers back the product with an extensive seven-year warranty, which helps reassure customers who may balk at the hefty price tag. The main drawback is the product comes in an enormous (and expensive) 4.75-gallon tin that covers a whopping 1500 sq ft., big enough to coat a small house—don’t worry, the product works fine on all rubber roof RVs as well.
Another downside is that elastomeric coatings tend to dry in thin layers, and this model from KST is no exception. You’ll need to apply at least two coats (a base coat before the white coat) to achieve optimal protection.

Pros
Excellent elastomeric coating for RVs
Perfect for humid environments
Protects against the sun and the rain
Remains adhesive and flexible in adverse weather

Cons
Requires two coats for optimal performance
Rather expensive
Comes in a massive tin that’s more than you need

7. Best for Fiberglass Roofs: Dicor Fiberglass RV Roof Coating

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Why we like it: It provides exceptional protection for your fiberglass RV roof and is easy to apply.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Acrylic resin
Consistency: Liquid
Sealant / Coating: Coating
Compatible With: Fiberglass
Color: White
Size: 1 gallon / 350 sq ft.
While the KST Coating Elastomeric Finish Coat is your best bet for a rubber RV roof coating, this nifty product from Dicor is the ideal way to make your fiberglass last. The specially formulated acrylic resin mixture has been purposely designed with the fiberglass RV roof in mind, allowing it to provide ample protection and a long-lasting shine.
This formula is entirely free of ingredients that can damage delicate fiberglass, including petroleum distillates. Therefore, it’s safe to use on your fiberglass roof without the risk of corrosion.
Most RV coatings tend to lose their sheen over time, but this product from Dicor offers a persistent bright white finish that doesn’t tend to fade. It’ll also reflect the sun’s UV rays to help keep your RV cooler—a godsend in summer—and provide protection from algae and mildew.
Like other acrylic resin roof coatings, you’ll need to apply two coats to get the job done and wait for a considerable amount of time before it’s dry. Nonetheless, it’s well worth the effort to keep your fiberglass roof in tip-top condition for the season to come.
But buyer beware: be sure to apply it as you’re heading into the warmer months. Pure acrylic resin coatings tend to peel and crack when the temperature dips below freezing.

Pros
Specially designed fiberglass RV coating
Resists mold and mildew
Protects from UV rays
Retains long-lasting sheen

Cons
Requires two coats
May peel over winter

8. Best for Metal Roofs: Dicor RP-MRC-1 Elastomeric Coating

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Why we like it: This powerful product provides your metallic RV roof with all the protection you need.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Acrylic resin
Consistency: Liquid
Sealant / Coating: Coating
Compatible With: Metal
Color: Arctic white
Size: 1 gallon
Dicor makes our favorite fiberglass RV coating, and the company is on the money with their metallic version as well. Once again, Dicor has specially designed this product for optimal performance with a specific roof type—in this case, metal. Therefore, RV owners looking for a way to coat their aluminum roof can rest assured they’re making the right choice.
The 100% acrylic elastomeric resin dries into a rubber-like coating that does an excellent job of protecting metal surfaces from the elements. Resistant to both mold and mildew, the coating expands and contracts as your roof rattles around to ensure it can stand the test of time. It’ll also reduce the likelihood of cracks forming in your roof, thus preventing potentially damaging leaks.
The bright white finish, which is almost identical to the fiberglass coating, reflects the sun’s rays. However, it may start to look dirty quicker than other products, but that’s nothing a vigorous scrub with soapy water can’t fix.
You’ll need to add two coats for optimal performance; the one-gallon tin is good for up to 200 sq ft. As you’re working with metal here, remember to treat any rust first and apply a primer. The coating should only be applied when the temperature is higher than 50F.

Pros
Ideal coating for metallic RV roofs
Expands and contracts
Mold and mildew resistant
Reflects sun’s rays
Prevents cracks from forming

Cons
Starts to look dirty quite quickly
Requires rust removal, priming, and multiple coats
Can’t be applied in cold weather

9. Best Transparent RV Sealant: Geocel 28100V Pro Flex

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Why we like it: It seals up even the most stubborn leaks and is barely noticeable no matter the color of your roof.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Silicone
Consistency: Putty
Sealant / Coating: Sealant
Compatible With: Fiberglass and aluminum
Color: Transparent
Size: 10 fluid ounces
If you’ve got a uniquely-colored RV, then the last thing you want to do is seal up your roof with a standard white or cream sealant. And that’s where the 28100V Pro Flex from Geocol comes in, with its transparent texture that works well on any colored RV.
Before you get too excited, do be aware the sealant isn’t entirely invisible. You’ll still be able to notice it if you look closely and carefully, especially should you fail to apply it in a smooth, even coat. You can paint over the top of it, though, which is perfect should you decide you’re not quite happy with the outcome.
Nonetheless, in terms of aesthetics, it easily outperforms any white sealant for colored RV roofs.
Aside from being see-through, the 28100V Pro Flex is a pretty decent sealant. The silicone-based product is remarkably flexible and resistant to cracking, plus it’ll retain its adhesiveness in even the toughest weather conditions. It’s durable, too; the sturdy sealant resists mildew and mold for up to 25 years.
Novice roof sealers also love how easy this product is to apply. Unlike other more powerful sealants—we’re looking at you, Sikaflex—the Pro Flex isn’t wild and stringy, so you won’t have to make an ungodly mess. And if you do happen to squirt a bit of stray goo where you shouldn’t have, it’s relatively easy to clean up again.
This product works well with fiberglass and aluminum, although it’s not suitable for rubber RV roofs.

Pros
Transparent for use on any roof color
25-year lifespan
Protects against UV, mold, and mildew
Resistant to cracking
Easy to apply and clean

Cons
Not suitable for rubber roofs

10. Best Self-Leveling Sealant: ToughGrade Self-Leveling RV Lap Sealant

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Why we like it: It works perfectly on horizontal workspaces such as roofs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Self-leveling silicone
Consistency: Putty
Sealant / Coating: Sealant
Compatible With: Rubber
Color: White
Size: 4x 10-ounce tubes
This rubber self-leveling sealant is an excellent option for RV roofs with stubborn leaks and cracks that are difficult to reach. The tiny tube slides into a caulking gun for easy application in inaccessible places and will level itself with time for a smoother finish. Use it to seal vents, pipes, holes, cracks, and crevices in your roof, virtually anywhere on a horizontal plane.
Do note, however, that self-leveling sealants cannot be used on horizontal surfaces—give this one a miss if you also plan on sealing your RV windows.
ToughGrade can withstand the elements without cracking or peeling, even in freezing conditions and bucket loads of snow.
It’s simple for the layman to apply as well—all you’ve got to do is clean the area and squirt it on. What’s more, it dries super quickly, and you can paint over the top of it to achieve your desired look. That’s just as well because the sealant comes in an unusual off-white color that doesn’t blend well with your standard RV roof.

Pros
Excellent for horizontal applications
Doesn’t degrade over time
Doesn’t degrade over time
Dries fast
Can be painted over

Cons
Off-white color doesn’t match most roofs

RV Roof Sealants and Coatings: A Buyer’s Guide
Before you take the plunge and purchase a sealant or coating to fix your RV, it’s worth doing your research to learn everything you can about the products and processes. In this in-depth buyer’s guide, we’ll explain in detail the different types of sealants/coatings and roofs, as well as how to fix a leaky RV roof on your own.
What’s the Difference between RV Sealants and RV Coatings?
Contrary to popular belief, there is a notable difference between RV sealants and RV coatings.
As the name implies, sealants are specially designed to seal any cracks that may have formed in your roof due to wear and tear on the road. These highly malleable and weather-resistant products are ideal for fixing a leaky roof to keep your RV—and the contents within—dry.
Coatings, on the other hand, are intended to be painted or sprayed over the top of your RV roof. These preventative products enhance the structural integrity of your roof and increase its UV and weather-resistant properties.
While liquid coatings can seal minor cracks in a roof, silicone-based sealants are always more effective. Of course, using a putty-like adhesive such as silicone to coat your entire roof would be hilariously inefficient, so you’d need to purchase a separate product if you want a weather-resistant coating as well.
Although many RVers may apply a sealant and a coating simultaneously, the two products serve distinct purposes.

The Benefits of Sealing and Coating Your RV
Even a low-cost RV requires a considerable financial outlay, so it makes sense to do everything you can to protect your investment. And one of the easiest ways to degrade an RV over time is by neglecting to maintain its roof.
Life on the road involves millions of rattles and bumps, each of which takes a tiny toll on the structural integrity of your RV. But when combined over a prolonged period, these little rumbles eventually form cracks in the membrane of your roofing. Naturally, the first place to come apart is the sealant, which, when compromised, will allow water to gush through your roof and into your RV.
If left as is, that water flow will rot your wood, rust your steel, and fry your electrics—potentially costing you thousands of dollars in repairs over time. The best way to avoid forking out for an eye-watering repair bill is by sealing the roof of your RV religiously.
Aside from keeping water out, a properly sealed and coated RV roof will improve your overall insulation, thus making it more energy-efficient to heat or cool your mobile home.
RV Roof Sealant and Coatings Formulas
There are three main varieties of RV sealants to choose from, each with distinct pros and cons. No one particular type is the best for every situation, so you’ll have to study these carefully to determine which is best for you.
Silicone Sealants
Silicone automotive sealants are among the most expensive on the market, but they’re also among the most durable. These heavy-duty sealants hold up exceptionally well against the elements, capable of withstanding even the most fierce wind, rain, and sun. An elastic-like structure enables these sealants to hold steady through the bumps of the road, making them a popular choice among automotive repairers and RV enthusiasts.
On the downside, silicone has a nasty habit of getting everywhere, so it’s a bit tricky to apply, despite the fact you only need one coat. It’s also more expensive than other sealant types and tends to get all gunky and dirty looking rather quickly.
Acrylic Sealants
Acrylic sealants are exceptionally affordable but take a long time to apply, making them a suitable option for cash strapped but time-rich RVers who are willing to fix their own roof. The liquid-like substance does a decent job of reflecting sunlight and sealing in cracks and gaps, although it isn’t as waterproof as other options.
If you live in a wet region or expect water to pool on the roof of your RV, then consider trying a different variety. Acrylic takes longer to apply as you’ll need to do a primer and then put on a second coat known as a ‘fabric reinforce.’
Urethane Sealants
Urethane is an excellent RV sealant for its superb weather-resistant properties that enable it to withstand the test of time in even the harshest American climates. The substance dries out to create a durable shell capable of taking a beating from physical objects like pine cones and hail. Of course, no sealant is bulletproof, so don’t expect a fresh layer of urethane to protect your roof from heavy impacts.
Urethane costs quite a bit more than other sealants and takes longer to apply because two coats are needed for the optimal finish. Nonetheless, many RVers believe it’s worth the extra time and money for the additional protection it affords.
RV Roof Sealant and Coating Consistency
RV sealants and coatings come in various consistencies, each of which serves a distinct purpose.
Putty
Silicone-based sealants have a putty-like consistency, best applied through a caulking gun. As the putty is thick and expensive, it’s only ever used to seal problematic areas—never to coat an entire roof.
Some silicone sealants are self-leveling, which means they’re only useful on a horizontal surface.
Liquid
RV coatings come in a liquid consistency, which you can paint over the entire surface area of your roof. The texture is kind of like a varnish, and the application process is somewhat similar as well.
Although a coating may help seal smaller cracks on your RV roof, they’re never as effective as dedicated sealants. Therefore, if you’ve got a giant gap that needs urgent attention, it’s best to use a silicone sealant before applying a protective coating to the entire roof.
Tape
As the name implies, sealant tapes are a tape-like product that appears almost identical to duct tape or the like. However, the product is different in that it’s specially designed to seal rubber surfaces together, making it a suitable solution for cracks in the flat areas of your RV roof.
Sealant tape isn’t useful in the non-flat areas, though, as water will always find a way to wiggle underneath. On the whole, it isn’t as effective as other sealant types either, so this “easy option” is best left for minor cracks and gaps.
Our favorite RV sealant tape is the EternaBond RSW-2-50 RoofSeal Sealant Tape.
RV Roofing Materials
The ideal RV sealant or coating depends on what your roof is made out of, which typically falls into one of four categories: EPDM rubber, TPO rubber, fiberglass, and aluminum.
EPDM Rubber
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer is lightweight and cheap but doesn’t compare with other roof types in terms of durability. This kind of rubber simply isn’t strong enough to withstand heavy weight or constant impacts, which means you’ll need to repair it more frequently. If you’ve got an EPDM rubber roof on your RV, you might notice how it starts to appear a tad rusty and chalky over time as well.
TPO Rubber
A superior, albeit more expensive, type of rubber to use on an RV roof is TPO, which stands for Thermal Poly Olefin. This rubber is far more rigid than EPDM, so you generally won’t have to reseal it quite as often. The easiest way to identify TPO rubber is by its glossy sheen, which continues to shine for many years after leaving the factory floor.
Fiberglass
Although fiberglass RV roofs exist, they’re not nearly as common as either of the two main rubber varieties. Much like EPDM, fiberglass tends to oxidize and lose its aesthetic appeal over time. The good news is you can rapidly remedy the issue with a fresh new RV coating, which should instantly return its glossy shine.
Our favorite sealing and coating to use on fiberglass roofing is Dicor Fiberglass RV Roof Coating.
Aluminum
Aluminum is the least common of the four main RV roof types, mostly because this heavy material adds too much extra weight to the rig. The plus side is that aluminum is far more rigid than other roof types on the market, so you shouldn’t have to bother sealing it for many years to come.
Coating aluminum is always worthwhile, however, and our favorite product is Dicor RP-MRC-1 Elastomeric Coating.
Applying a Sealant and Coating to Your RV Roof

Although the process of applying a coating or sealant to your RV roof varies significantly depending on the particular product, there are several fundamental steps to follow.
How To Seal An RV Roof
Strip away the layer of sealant you plan to replace using a Stanley knife or similar tool.
Level the area using sandpaper
Clean the area using a sponge or cloth with denatured alcohol
Stick masking tape alongside the area you want to seal to avoid getting sealant where you shouldn’t
Apply the sealant slowly and carefully in an even layer
Allow the sealant to dry for 24 hours in a shady place protected from the wind and the rain (don’t drive until it’s dry)
Many sealants like silicone are easier to apply with a caulking gun, which you can purchase online or pick up from your local hardware store. If you plan to go down this route, opt for a sealant in a package that’s already compatible with a caulking gun.
If you’re still not confident, here’s a more in-depth article on how to seal your RV roof.
How To Coat an RV Roof
Follow these steps to coat your RV roof:
If necessary, seal up any cracks in your RV roof using a sealant
Use a stiff-bristled broom and warm water with detergent to clean your RV roof thoroughly
Allow your RV roof to fully dry, leaving it in the sun for many hours or even overnight if necessary
Apply your coating smoothly and evenly using a roller brush or paintbrush
Apply a second coat 24 hours later if necessary
Although RV coatings can help seal cracks and crevices, they’re not as powerful as a dedicated sealant. Therefore, to fix severe damage, it’s wise to use a sealant first and let it dry before coating the roof.
Remember to clean your roof exceptionally well, as an RV coating won’t stick to a dirty surface.
More information on how to coat your RV roof can be found in this article.
RV Sealant and Coating FAQ
If you’ve still got questions about RV sealants and coatings, then take a look at the following FAQ.
What Is the Best RV Sealant?
While the ideal sealant depends on several factors, including the roof type and the extent of the damage, our favorite overall is Sikaflex-221. This widely popular automotive sealant does a fantastic job of patching up a leaky roof, even though it may be a bit messy to apply.
How Often Should You Seal Your RV roof?
A leaky roof can cause extensive damage to your RV electrics, as well as rot away your wood and cause your metal to corrode. Because the bumps of the road make the joints in your roof unravel at a rapid pace, most veteran RVers will take the time to reseal their RV roof at least once per year.
Many RVers also opt to recoat their roof at the same time, reinforcing it to provide extra rain and sun protection for the travel season to come.
How Do You Remove Old Roof Sealant From RV?
You’ll need to get rid of the old sealant before applying a new batch. Use a Stanley knife to cut out the old adhesive, then sand it back vigorously with sandpaper.
Once it looks nice and level, remember to clean the surface with denatured alcohol and let that dry before applying the new sealant.
Can I Walk on My RV?
Most people can safely walk on most RV roofs, as these are typically rated to support the weight of the average human.
However, we still recommend you read the owner’s manual of your vehicle to double-check the load rating of your roof. The last thing you want to do is fall through and cause severe damage to both you and your rig.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—everything you could ever hope to know about RV roof sealants and coatings, and can do your own maintenance. Sure, you could pay a professional to do it for you. But these services typically cost north of a grand. Do it yourself, however, and you’ll be done within an afternoon and will have saved yourself a massive wad of cash (which you can spend on the road!).
Whether you’re looking to reseal your old, weathered sealant, or reinforce your roof with a fresh layer of protective RV coating, we’ve recommended the best options on the market for you.
After a small financial investment and a bit of good old fashioned elbow grease, you can relax safe in the knowledge your RV roof is now good to go for the season to come. If you’re looking to further prepare your RV before the big trip, you can take a look at our article about RV waxes too.
Happy trails, folks. More

Because they are typically the first modification anyone does when they want to improve their car’s performance, it’s no wonder drivers take their cold air intakes seriously. This passion runs deep, with many displaying their CAI brand as a decal in the window or the first line of their signature when participating in car discussions online.
This enthusiasm is also why cold air intakes are also one of the most hotly debated topics in the car community. Today, we’ll help you cut through all the noise and pick the best CAI for your vehicle.

Choosing the Right Intake
At AutoQuarterly, we want to make sure you get the most out of your car. Getting a cold air intake is a great first step to take if you want to learn about car performance or just become more comfortable with modifying your car in general.
There are tons of myths, misconceptions, and downright crazy claims surrounding them, though. We want to clear the air and present you with all the information you need to make a great decision. We’ll start with a straightforward guide for choosing one and a list of our recommendations. At the bottom, though, we’ll go straight into the science and mythology surrounding air intakes.
Choosing a CAI
Choosing an intake can be hard simply because there are tons and tons of options, and they all pretty much do exactly the same thing. An AEM intake with a pod filter is a pipe length with a filter on the end of fit, just like an Injen intake, and just like a K&N. Usually, the decision comes down to one of the following.
Brand and Street Cred
There are two main categories of intake: the big brands and the knockoffs. There’s nothing wrong with most knockoffs. They might be a little harder to install, but they are way less expensive than any of the major brands. Let’s face it, though. Having a big AEM logo staring you in the face when you pop the hood does feel good.
Included Accessories
The intakes on the market range from “everything included” to “a bunch of random parts in a box.” You have to decide how much DIY you want to do and what kind of accessories you want.
Fitment
Every car is different, so the intake that fits in one car probably won’t fit another. There are a few things that affect fitment with the CAIs. The biggest, most obvious one is the length and shape of the tubes. You need to get an intake for your car, or it won’t even fit under the hood.
There are a few other considerations, too, like the sensor holes and type of sensor attachments you need. Just make sure to get a system that fits your car; it’s effortless to double-check online.
Materials
There are a handful of different materials found on an intake. CAIs are made of rubber for fittings, aluminum or plastic for tubing, and oil or paper for the filter. Each has pros and cons; we’ll discuss them in depth down here. Basically: better, more expensive materials last longer.
Oh, and oiled filters have additional risks. We’ll talk about filters below, but just know that they need more maintenance than paper ones.
Cost
Everyone wants a full HKS engine intake upgrade. Very few people can afford it. Just be realistic about the cost. A cheap system will be lower quality than a more expensive one to a point, but you may be paying for the label with the higher cost systems.
Make Sure It’ll Fit Your Car
There are many really great intakes, but before we get to reviewing them, there’s something we need to stress.
Unfortunately, it’s impossible to say for certain that each entry will fit every vehicle. While most manufacturers will make a variety of different sizes and configurations for various cars, some might specialize in or only make a small number of styles.
In this review section, we will focus more on the broad strokes and ideas when discussing CAIs. Think of it more as a brand and idea guide, and less like a specific guide for your car. The best thing to do is search for your car’s make, model, and year plus cold air intake online. Then read about what other people are using, and then match it with the brand and style you are looking for.
On Amazon, it’s easy to set up your car in the garage menu and let the interface double check the fitment for you.

Top 10 Best Cold Air Intakes 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: K&N Cold Air Intake Kit

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Why we like it: There’s nothing not to like about K&N intake systems. They are a great value, make a kit for any vehicle, and are one of the biggest names in automotive.
Editor’s Rating:

About the Brand
K&N Engineering is probably the most well-known performance filter brand on earth. They are primarily known for pioneering the reusable, oil-based air filter technology, and are probably the most trusted brand for aftermarket intakes.
Unfortunately, their size and universal application lower their credibility in the performance scene. Since they can be found on anything from lawnmowers, to minivans, to dragsters, the label can mark you as a noob who only sticks to what’s safe. We don’t believe it’s terrible to stay with something tried and true, but the performance world is usually about pushing the envelope and not staying safe.
What You Get in the Box
The oil-based, reusable K&N filter is probably the most important part of the system. It’s what they are known for, after all. They use an HDPE tube instead of aluminum to keep costs down, and their kits include heat shields and gaskets to isolate the pod filter. The guards make sure you aren’t sucking in hot, polluted engine air.
One of the crucial things you get in the box that you don’t get from most other manufacturers is the 50-state approved sticker. Californians, you need one of those stickers, or your car will fail smog. Only a few other companies are authorized.
Quality and Fitment
K&N is top tier in terms of quality and fitment but is not the best. Yes, they are the world leaders, but they also sometimes get a little sloppy with tolerances in favor of keeping costs down. It’s still really, really good quality though. The issues only really arise during installation. You find out a screw hole doesn’t quite line up, or a sensor hole isn’t quite the right diameter. Usually, it’s a simple fix, and it far outshines cheap kits like the Million Parts intake, but it does leave some room for improvement.
Our Take
You can’t go wrong with a K&N. It may not be as prestigious as AEM in terms of sticker value, but no one would ever argue that it’s a bad investment.

Pros
K&N’s filters are some of the best
They probably make an intake for your car
Most are 50-state legal

Cons
Fitment is good, but sometimes has little annoying issues
Oil filters can cause problems for some models

2. Best Premium Pick: S&B Filters Cold Air Intake

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Why we like it: The S&B filter system is made of high-quality materials and will probably outlast the rest of your car.
Editor’s Rating:

About the Brand
Go to any off-road event. Doesn’t matter if it’s for side by sides, prerunners or crawlers; just go to a big event. There, nestled nicely next to the Optima Batteries stand, will be S&B. They specialize in trucks. It doesn’t matter if it’s a diesel, gas, or hybrid. They make a filter that’s perfect for running the Baja 500 or towing your buddy out of the mud.
They are expensive, they are found on expensive toys, and they look seriously impressive. No, really, the clear plastic cover for the airbox makes even the oldest, ugliest truck look high tech. It may not have K&N’s instant brand recognition, but you’ll get a knowing nod by anyone that builds off-road rigs.
What You Get in the Box
There’s a lot to say about the parts you get. The air filter is probably better than K&N’s intake filters, which is really saying a lot. The parts and fittings are made of high-quality silicone so that they will last forever. The filter box keeps all the garbage out, making it one of the best units to protect your engine.
It also has this super cool clear cover. You get the exposed pod filter look and convenience without it actually being exposed to mud and gunk.
Quality and Fitment
Like the other more expensive, top-shelf systems, the S&B just needs to be snapped in place. Since they don’t manufacture the system for very many vehicles, they can afford to keep all the factory sensor locations. The stock locations make it 50-state legal and make it incredibly easy to install.
As for quality, there’s nothing higher. Like we pointed out previously, it uses premium silicone instead of rubber for fittings, which means it won’t crack over time. The filters are some of the best on the market, and the injection-molded plastic is less susceptible to bends and damage than the thin aluminum of other products.
Our Take
If you are serious about off-road, your choices probably come down to either the S&B or the Airaid kit. The Airaid is new and cool, but the S&B will protect your motor better. Out in the dunes or jungles, it doesn’t matter how good your motor is if you clog the filter with debris, and that puts the S&B on top.

Pros
Really high quality
Looks amazing
50-state Legal

Cons
Expensive
Only offer kits for trucks and SUVs

3. Best Simple Kit: Spectre Performance Intake Kit

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Why we like it: The Spectre Performance is less expensive than the K&N, but still top-notch in quality and design.
Editor’s Rating:

About the Brand
Spectre is not a big brand. It’s not really a brand you will see advertised on the windshield; no one will brag that they just got a new Spectre performance intake.
You will see them at track days and autocrosses, though. You’ll see them in the cars that are built to go without regard to show. The beat-up Miata that catches you off guard when the blowoff valve snorts in your direction has one, and the old CRX that just took away your poll position has one. Get the AEM if you need the yellow sticker. Get the Spectre if you like telling people that Spectre built the first gas-powered car to go over 400mph.
What You Get in the Box
Spectre intakes are meant to just be bare bones units, so you don’t get a whole lot of customization options. It’s an oiled filter, but they are cheaper, and you will probably just buy a new one instead of cleaning and re-oiling. The aluminum tube is on the thin side, but it’s polished and looks good.
The heatshield isn’t insulated, so it won’t work as good as other units. They do make the heatshields fit easily into your engine compartment. You won’t have to fight a universal fit shield like the Million Parts deal.
Quality and Fitment
The quality is good for the price, and the fitment is fine as long as you don’t expect too much. The Spectre is high on our list compared to other cheap offerings because of the adaptability. They are such a simple unit that you can configure them to fit in just about any condition.
The place where things can fall apart is sensor installation. Which is to say that Spectre does not offer any variation for sensor type in their products. You have to either eliminate the sensor or use stock components. That means no smog, and you’ll have to fight with newer cars.
Our Take
If looks and brand don’t matter, but you still need a good quality filter, then Spectre has you covered. Unless you have to pass smog, then it’s probably better to pay the extra money on a different brand like K&N.

Pros
Clean and simple
Very adaptable design
Inexpensive for the quality

Cons
Not 50-state legal
No dedicated sensor install points

4. Best for Modern Muscle Cars: BBK Intake

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Why we like it: The BBK CAI is 50-state legal, so you can pass smog in California. That puts it in a pretty exclusive club.
Editor’s Rating:

About the Brand
BBK is synonymous with Mustang Power. They build a lot of parts that make Ford Mustangs go faster, and they have since the 80s. If you have ever seen a Fox Body destroying the competition at the drags, chances are there’s a big blue BBK stamp in at least four places under the hood.
Recently they have branched out and created beautiful intakes for Camaros and Challengers too. Well, those and Raptors, but going from one big Ford V8 to another isn’t exactly groundbreaking. If you have an American V8, wearing the BBK badge is a sign that you speak the power language.
What You Get in the Box
Most of their kits contain a polished metal tube, a polished metal heatshield, and an oversized oiled filter. There’s nothing remarkable about the bits and pieces that come in the BBK kits. It’ll be a recurring theme as we talk about it. BBK only makes a handful of different intakes, so each kit is trimmed down and meant for the motor they are going to be attached to.
The polished heat shield is a little unique and goes really well with the polished tubing. BBK also chose blue as their color, probably to stand out against K&N’s dominating red and orange, so you are in luck if you like blue.
Quality and Fitment
The quality and fit are fantastic. The benefit to the BBK philosophy of only building parts for big American motors means that they have a lot of experience with making things that fit big American motors. The polished aluminum piping is sturdy, the couplers have grooves that hold the clamps in place, and it comes with its own bolts to replace the off-color stock ones.
Those of you who have ever tried to clamp a pipe in place with a hose clamp that’s sliding all over the place will know just how much little design elements can remove the frustration out of an install.
Their biggest strength is also where you find their biggest letdown. If you have a 2009 Mustang GT, the fit is amazing. Install it, the sensors just line right up, it’s legal in California, everything will be perfect. If you own a WRX? You are just out of luck. BBK does not make any universal kit pieces, and they do not care about imported sports cars. Stick with AEM.
Our Take
It costs less than the K&N equivalent, you get a great horsepower bump, and you can’t beat the polished metal look. If they made kits for more models, it would be in the running for the best cold air on the market. They don’t, though, so they will have to settle for being a really good product that won’t be the right choice for a lot of people.

Pros
Offers some of the best performance for the money
BBK is a very well known, established brand
50-state legal

Cons
Expensive
Really only available for modern American V8s.

5. Best Budget Pick: Million Parts Air Intake System

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Why we like it: The Million Parts system is very inexpensive, and it works. That makes it a perfect entry level part.
Editor’s Rating:

About the Brand
Million Parts is a lesser known Chinese manufacturer. There’s nothing wrong with that; it’s not the curse it used to be. It’s just, well, you’d never tell people what it is if you got it. You might brag about how little you paid for it, but we guarantee that you won’t remember who the manufacturer was after a year. In fact, you’d probably have trouble finding it again because they will have changed names.
In the industry, we’d call the entire lot of generic parts “eBay” parts because of how prevalent these random brands are on the site. It doesn’t matter what the brand actually is; it’s just an eBay intake. They go great with eBay turbos and eBay mufflers.
Again, they work, and they are great for cheap builds. It’s not like it won’t suck in air or damage your engine or anything. Just don’t lie about what it is when asked. You’ll get more cred owning up to it than is worth risking in a lie.
What You Get in the Box
There will be a bunch of fittings, tubes, a decent filter, and a heat shield in the kit. It’s something you’ll find with any cheaper kit. To keep costs down, the manufacturer will make many elbows, pre-bent tubes, and couplers to be used across any platform. Usually, even the heat shield is just a simple bent piece that can fit in a lot of different cars.
The one thing that sets the Million Parts kit apart is the filter. These inexpensive kits can have really bad filters, to the point where to get the most out of a kit, you should just buy a cheaper K&N filter to stuff on the end. The Million Parts paper filter is not bad; you don’t have to worry about it letting a bunch of dirt through. Plus, you get to choose the color.
Quality and Fitment
Quality is just something you won’t find with these types of kits. The aluminum pipes are super thin and prone to scratching, the hose clamps that hold the couplers together are difficult to work with. Chances are that even though you ordered the right kit for your car, you will have to fight with the installation to get it to fit right.
You also are not going to get any sensor variety or 50-state legality. Most of the time, when installing a kit like this, you’ll end up keeping parts of the stock air intake. That’s not unique to cheap parts; AEM is the same way. It’s just that unlike, say, the S&B intake, it’s not a direct drop-in replacement for the entire system.
Our Take
We get it. We call cold air intakes an entry-level modification, something that is for beginners. However, even the inexpensive quality ones are still hundreds of dollars. That puts them out of reach for people like students or people just barely getting into automobiles.
The good news is that generic parts are not as bad they were in the past. The Million Parts intake is good enough to look the part, sound the part, and introduce someone to car modification who doesn’t want to drop over $100 on a length of aluminum pipe.

Pros
Less expensive than the big brand names
Can be used in a lot of motors
Included filter is surprisingly good

Cons
Couplers are low quality
Not legal everywhere due to lack of sensor space

6. Best Compatability: Injen Technologies Intake Systems

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Why we like it: Injen’s polished, high flow tubings and low restriction filters are the best things you can get if power is your only concern.
Editor’s Rating:

About the Brand
Injen was the company that started the polished tubing craze in the 90s. Injen and AEM dominated the tuner market, and Injen grabbed a lot of the Euro market too. You can still see their influence anytime you see a drift build on IG; they invented that style.
Nowadays, in addition to being worthy of mentioning in your forum signature, they also pride themselves on making performance parts for any car. 1992 MR2? They have it. 2015 Infiniti Q50? They have that too. They are a lot like the high-tech cousin to K&N. If K&N is the most popular kid in school, Injen is the kid everyone comes to when they need help with their math homework.
What You Get in the Box
The linked product is a short ram intake. We will discuss the specific different types here, but depending on your car’s make and model, it may not be short. The bits and pieces you get when you order any Injen intake are all pretty much the same, though. It will include a bent piece of polished aluminum tubing and a filter.
The assumption with high-end performance-oriented upgrades like the Injen or AEM is that you will source the other parts. If you want an air filter box or a heatshield, you will have to find it yourself. In the modding scene, it’s really common for every part to be separate so that you can find custom parts for your build. Pre-built kits usually won’t work since you will probably have modified the features they are meant to attach to.
Quality and Fitment
The quality is right on par with the other big players like BBK. It’s honestly better than K&N; the polished pipes bring a durability level that molded plastic pipes can’t achieve.
The quality and simplicity also lead to really easy installs. There’s just not much to do, and the parts are so high quality that you don’t have to think very hard to attach it to your motor. Just understand that it’s not a complete system like the Airad. It won’t have a MAP sensor hookup because they expect you to be modifying your car and may not even have the sensors in the stock locations.
Our Take
Injen or AEM. That’s probably where you are, and we’ll be honest, it’s a really, really tough decision. They are both great companies that make great products for an astounding range of different makes and models. The one thing that makes the Injen stand out is the ease of installation. Injen just focuses a bit more on fitment, not adaptability as AEM does.

Pros
Injen makes an intake for every car
Parts are good quality
Easy install for most models

Cons
Not 50-state legal
No heat shield

7. Best for Modified Motors: AEM Cold Air Intake

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Why we like it: AEM is one of the industry standards when it comes to tuning. The California company does tons of testing so that you can get the most performance possible.
Editor’s Rating:

About the Brand
Even if you only know about performance cars from seeing them on screen, you know AEM. Their stickers are plastered all over the cars in Fast and Furious right alongside other tuner focused companies like Sparco, Toyo, and HKS. That’s because the original Fast and Furious cars were actually enthusiast cars that the studio rented for the close-ups, and tuning enthusiasts since the 80s have relied on AEM for parts.
Now their reputation for building adaptive kits for high-performance motors is legendary. If you are swapping in a 2JZ, they sell an intake kit for it. We pointed out earlier that K&N is pretty good at making something for everyone, but they still hang out in the realm of normalcy. AEM goes full-on nuts with entire pre-bent tubing kits and silicone couplers that can be made to adapt to even the most insane engine builds.
The downside is that the pure performance focus makes them unfriendly towards beginners. Other companies give you a nice set of instructions with big pictures. AEM gives you a box of parts and gets frustrated if you need help figuring out how to install them.
What You Get in the Box
The particular linked product is for a WRX, one of the most modified cars on earth, and it really demonstrates what AEM will give you in a kit. It’s got a crazy bent tube with a bunch of holes and brackets, a gasketed dust shield, and a really nice dry paper filter.
All of that is geared towards modifying the car for power. The paper element filter is more likely to work in any configuration. The bent pipe relocates the factory pickup out of the way and cleans up the engine space, making it easier to work on. The clamps are quick on and off style clamps because AEM knows you’ll be pulling it off to work on things frequently.
Quality and Fitment
The quality is top of the line, which is what you’d expect for what can be the most expensive intake on our list. We say it can be because, on average, the S&B intakes top out the cost chart. However, if you are piecing together a custom intake using AEM parts, it can easily reach 500+ dollars.
The ability to piece together anything is their biggest selling point, though. They sell parts with and without sensor inputs. They sell their own sensors if you don’t want to use the factory ones, and they sell their own controllers so you can override the stupid check engine light that will flash at you if you unplug the factory sensors.
You lose out on an easy install. There’s nothing easy about having to work out your entire build ahead of time and double-check all your routing options before ordering.
Oh, and despite the ability to include all the sensors, AEM intakes are not 50-state legal. They won’t even ship through Amazon to California. Just order from somewhere else and claim it’s for off-highway if you live in a place that Amazon refuses to ship to.
Our Take
You don’t need our take. If you know who AEM is and know what they do, you already know if you are going to pick them over the others. In a very real way, the sticker is worth the cost. Your car makes a statement, and that sticker states, “enjoy staring at my tail lights.”

Pros
AEM is the gold standard for tuner performance
Fits anything. Even if they don’t make a specific intake for your car, they sell parts to DIY it
Filters are top-notch

Cons
Not 50-state legal
Not good for beginners

8. Easiest Installation: Airaid Intake System

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Why we like it: Airaid uses precision molding to make low-restriction tubing that conforms to all sorts of unusual shapes and sizes. That makes them fit as good as a factory part.
Editor’s Rating:

About the Brand
Airaid is the newest player on the block. Where most of these companies were around in the 80s, or even earlier if you are K&N, Airaid was barely a company in the late 90s and wasn’t really a player on the market until the 2010s.
What they’ve done is try to take on the S&B and BBK market, building mostly systems for off-road and muscle. They are becoming really well known in Jeep circles, and are gaining popularity all over the place for their focus on simple, easy to install upgrades.
What You Get in the Box
When you order an Airaid kit, you get a molded plastic part that looks like it was made by your car’s manufacturer. The black plastic fits right in with the rest of the motor. The airbox looks like a factory airbox that’s just designed better, and the gasketing will blend right in with the rest of the modern compact motor.
You can choose paper or oil filters; both are of good quality. What you can’t get is the 50-state legal sticker. You can get extra pieces to make them lawful, and some kits do include those parts, but the standard kits won’t include that all-important sticker.
Quality and Fitment
The quality is good. The filter isn’t as good as others, but it will keep the dirt out. If you really want ultra-high quality, grab the S&B intake instead.
Airaid instead focuses on easy installation. They just drop in. You won’t find a more straightforward modification to install. The molded plastic is lightweight, so it’s even easy to position and clamp down.
They are still a new company too. Right now, they really only make parts for large displacement motors or off-road-focused vehicles. Their product line is constantly expanding, and they will likely achieve 50-state legal status in the near future.
Our Take
It’s always exciting to see a fresh company take on the giants with new innovations, and that’s what Airaid feels like. They aren’t top tier yet; they need to get that California stamp of approval before they can take all the number one spots. You definitely won’t be disappointed with them, though.

Pros
Factory fitment, even in tight engine bays
Air-box helps maximize performance without relocating stock placement
Molded intake tubes are lightweight and easy to work with

Cons
Only 50-state legal with additional parts
Only fits newer Trucks and SUVs, and the occasional V8 muscle car

9. Best Universal System: K&N Universal Air Intake System

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Why we like it: It doesn’t matter what you drive; you can route this intake to suck cold air in with this K&N.
Editor’s Rating:

About the Brand
We already covered one K&N CAI kit here. but if you really want to see how into the whole “we dominate the market” thing they are, check this product out. It wasn’t enough that they made an intake system for just about every vehicle, including motorcycles. They had to make something that’s just a tube you can attach to any motor ever.
Look, we understand if you don’t want to like K&N. They are everywhere, and their commercials play way too frequently. However, you have to respect a company that is willing to look at their incredibly impressive lineup and say, “Yeah, but what about that one guy over there? We don’t make a product specifically for him, let’s remedy that.”
What You Get in the Box
A funny-looking rubber hose and a pod that looks like it came off a spaceship. Inside the funny pod is one of K&N’s famous oiled filters. The big thing that separates this setup from everything else is the flexible rubber hose. Unlike rigid metal or plastic intakes, you can route the intake wherever you want.
The downside to the UFO pod is that it’s more restrictive, and the long hose adds in even more restriction. It’s not really a product for high-performance applications. It’s more a way to get a K&N lifetime filter and clean intake onto anything.
Quality and Fitment
The quality is fine, but you have to work everything out to install it. There are no mounting holes; you need to work that out yourself. There are no sensor holes; you’ll have to figure out how to install those yourself, and so on and so forth. That’s the downside to a universal product. Being universal means that they can’t predict where any part needs to be, so they just don’t bother.
It is really cool that you can throw a low restriction K&N filter on anything, though. We’ve even seen them on old tractors. The price might seem steep for that, but no one makes stock replacement parts for old or unique machines anymore. With the lifetime filter and universal fit, this thing can quickly become a lifesaver.
Our Take
Is it the greatest thing ever? No, but you can attach it to a boat if you want to. It’s got their instantly recognizable orange band black logo, it uses oiled lifetime filters, and it’s in a metal housing. What more could you want?

Pros
Fits a wide range of applications
K&N filters are among the best
Will last a long time

Cons
Can be hard to install
You won’t notice much performance gain

10. Best Bare Bones: Partol 3” Universal Intake

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Why we like it: Sometimes, you need to buy something cheap so you know why you should have bought something expensive. The Partol at least looks really good.
Editor’s Rating:

About the Brand
Partol doesn’t mean anything. Scroll down to the similar products section on their sales page, and you’ll see the exact same unit for about ten different names. It’s just like the Million Parts intake, but somehow even less of a real brand. It takes a certain talent to be a knock off of a knock off.
Just like we said before, you’d never brag about having a strange, brandless eBay intake. What they are is a good place to start. You buy one, it looks good, you start learning about modifications, and then you ditch it in favor of an Injen.
On the note of looking good, we want to draw attention to that. Even though Million Parts and Partol are just brandless, random intakes, they actually look good. Partol, in particular, does a great job with fake carbon fiber; they look impressive even if they aren’t.
What You Get in the Box
The kits come with tiny fake carbon fiber or blue aluminum tubing, a filter, a single coupler, and a little filter. It’s not great or anything. The tiny filter element is probably more restrictive than your stock air intake, and you probably won’t be sucking up cold air because the tube will be too short.
It also comes with a breather tube, which most companies don’t include. It feels like they know that their product isn’t that good, so they give you a length of rubber hose as a consolation prize. But hey, it’s like $30 bucks. You can’t expect it to compete with a $200 Injen intake.
Quality and Fitment
The quality is bad, and the fitment is meh. Sorry, we know you’ve probably seen the same thing said about cheap intakes everywhere you have gone to try and validate buying one. They are “universal” in that you can force it onto most engines, but you will get a check engine light blinking at you because there are no sensor holes. It’s easy to mount because it doesn’t have any proper mounting.
Our Take
We know there’s a lot of people itching to buy the cheap, bottom of the barrel products just to see if they really are that bad. The truth is, they aren’t that bad. They just aren’t good, and you will be left wanting more out of a product. The Spectre intake is not that much more expensive and will actually add throttle response to your car’s driving characteristics. The Partol will just add a bit of noise.

Pros
Really cheap
Looks pretty cool
Will make your car louder, and isn’t that all that really matters?

Cons
Parts are low quality
Not 50-state legal. Might cause you to fail inspection in up to 6 states, actually, since it will probably cause leaks.

An In-Depth Look at Cold Air Intakes
We said above that we’d get into the science and details, so let’s get into it. Just tread carefully; many internet arguments have been started over these devices.
What Is a Cold Air Intake?
In short, your factory airbox is really restrictive. It’s a mess of plastic boxes and tubes because the people who built your car designed it to be cheap, comfortable, and foolproof. A cold air intake replaces the mess of plastic with sleek tubes and pod filters, so there is a lot less restriction. Good cold air intakes also relocate the pickup to a place that will suck in cooler, denser air for better power. In theory, we’ll discuss that a lot more in the bottom section here.
The Pros and Cons of Cold Air Intakes
Before you jump into buying one for your car, you should know the potential downsides. In many cases, they don’t outweigh the benefits, especially if you plan on doing more modifications down the road. but to make a good decision, you should know both sides of the equation.
Pros
Here’s the good. You’ll notice we don’t include fuel economy on this list; we’ll address that in the section below.
Looks
Stock air boxes are a mess of plastic and rubber. Most CAI intakes are clean, sleek pieces of hardware with big, colored filters. Even sort of stock looking devices like the one S&B produces really clean up the engine bay and make the whole compartment look better.
The intake is one of the first things people notice when you look at a motor. Even if you know nothing about engines, you know that the way it pulls in air translates to how much power you make. The blower-style intake on Mad Max’s interceptor, the big turbos that every video game focuses on, and the big pod filters that sit on top of every single modified engine on every single auto magazine cover or movie poster. No matter how you slice it, adding a CAI can make your car’s motor look good.
Sound
Factory air intakes are meant to help silence your motor. The average person doesn’t want to hear their engine; they like quiet, sealed cabins. That can be really boring, though. If you are trying to get better performance out of your engine, you probably want it to sound like it’s performing better.
A CAI gets rid of all the insulation and sound stifling rubber tubes so that you can hear the air being sucked in and turned into torque. Especially with simpler units like the Spectre CAI that just have nothing to deaden the sound.
Power
“The box claims 10hp!” That meme was born from the marketing of pod filters on cold air systems. It’s not true. At least, not as a blanket statement. It’s been discussed on YouTube by MCM, Engineering Explained, Donut, and countless others, so if you want to see the debate in action watch, any of them.
The truth is that you may notice some performance gain, but mostly in the form of top-end HP or minor increases in acceleration from improved throttle response. Video games and parts store clerks would have you believe it leads to massive power gains, but testing over and over again has just proven that it’s marginal.
Again, just watch any of the previously linked videos. Mighty Car Mods actually has a whole series testing intakes on turbocharged cars as well as cars with very weak motors.
Cons
CAIs are awesome, but there are downsides. Not enough to outweigh the good parts, especially if you are here and already know you want one, but they should be discussed.
Cost
A CAI costs a lot more than a stock system. Not just because you are spending extra money on the intake itself, but the filters are more expensive and need to be replaced more often. Unless you get a reusable filter, but those are much more expensive upfront. We go into oiled filters here in the myth section.
Risk
Risk comes in two flavors: risk to your engine from debris and risk to your engine from incompatible intakes. Except for the more off-road oriented filters like the Airaid kit, aftermarket intakes that relocate the filter make them more susceptible to debris.
A cold air intake that moves the filter down into the cold under-car air is especially susceptible to sucking up water from puddles. If water gets into your motor, your motor will hydro lock and stop functioning.
The other issue that can arise if you throw on a filter and don’t set it upright. Sensors that run your car rely on information from the air to determine how much fuel to add per rotation. That’s really simplified, but the short of it is that if you don’t install the sensors correctly, your car will run poorly. The longer your car runs poorly, the more damage to the engine you can cause.
Legality

Some states have smog laws that will prevent you from passing inspection if you modify the intake. California is the most notorious one. The state is pretty much a constant thorn in every modding scene; it makes the fact that the Fast and Furious films take place in LA hilarious.
That’s why we tried hard to point out which intakes were 50-state legal and which ones weren’t. Companies like K&N had to spend a lot of money, and they had to do a lot of paperwork to get that stamp.
Myths
The myths surrounding cold air intakes are legendary and spark flame wars across the entire world wide web. We don’t want to get into that; we just want to dispel some of the more prevalent ones.
Myth #1: Your Factory Air Intake is Garbage
This is just one of those things that everyone sort of believes, but isn’t really rooted in reality. Your factory airbox is meant to be a compromise between a lot of things, like cost and ease of changing the filter. That doesn’t make it bad. In fact, most cars have engineered air intake boxes that already are cold air intakes. Plus, they include cool features like a Helmholtz resonator that helps pull in more air. You can read about them here; they are pretty awesome.
The truth is that if you are trying to convince yourself to get a new CAI, don’t go blaming the engineers that spent years developing the airbox in your car for making a bad intake. They did a fine job; just admit that you want your car to look and sound better.
Myth #2: You’ll Get Better Gas Mileage
This ties into the previous myth. It turns out engineers who get paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to make your car efficient are pretty good at it. In the early days of heavily restrictive air boxes, it was true that switching to a more open intake would improve efficiency, but that hasn’t been true in over 40 years. Sorry, we know the box at the parts store says that it totally will improve your fuel economy, but chances are it won’t.
Myth #3: Oiled Filters Are the Best Filters
K&N’s biggest claim to fame is its oiled air filters. They claim they last a lifetime and offer better airflow than any paper filter. Most performance intakes are available with oiled filters for that reason, even cheaper ones like the Spectre intake on our list.
It’s not totally true. First, unless you clean them fairly often, oiled filters can be more restrictive than paper filters. Oiled filters get dirtier faster than paper filters, and keeping a filter clean is the most important thing to do if you want good airflow.
Second, the oil can actually separate from the filter and then gunk up sensors and other things inside your engine. That’s because most people use too much oil when they clean them. Companies like S&P sell these intakes with filters pre-oiled to avoid that mistake, but eventually, you will have to wash and re-oil it yourself. That is when the danger comes in.
They do work great and save money over your car’s lifetime if you regularly service them. The average person doesn’t regularly service their air cleaner, which means the average person probably won’t see that benefit. Honestly, the average person is probably better off with a paper element filter that they replace more often.
Myth #4: It’s Not Really Illegal
Myth 4 is a weird one that you’ll see if you hang out on Facebook car groups. You’ll get someone who claims to know a guy who had a full intake kit on his Civic Si and totally got it smogged at a gas station in San Diego. Therefore it’s not something they really care about.
That is false. There are ways to smog a car in California or other areas that require inspection that are not legal. That doesn’t magically make it legal to install a modification to a piece of emissions equipment. You can get a ticket for it. You can fail smog and have your car labeled a gross polluter, and you can incur extra fines if your car is impounded because it won’t be considered road legal.
If you are hell-bent on installing a non-compliant CAI in California, at least keep your stock intake for when you get told to pull off the aftermarket one or get fined.
Short Ram, Ram Air, and Warm Air
These terms get confused a lot, especially when an intake can be all 3. We’ll keep it brief since the type of engine and type of car will dictate the shape more than your wants will.
A ram air intake is designed to funnel more air into your motor. 80s Camaros were famous for coming from the factory with ram air snorkels. Engineered cold air intakes like the Airaid intake we mention incorporate elements of a ram air system into their design.
A short ram intake is the same as a ram air, just short. The idea is that the air will have less distance to travel and can therefore make it into your engine with greater efficiency. It’s something that’s not totally true, there are drawbacks to the short design that can outweigh the advantage of a less restrictive pipeline. You can read about the pros and cons on this website; they do a good write up of intake knowledge in general.
Warm air intakes are just what they suggest. Older motors have a carburetor that sits on top of the engine. The air filter sits directly on top of the carb. Unfortunately, that means that the air going into the motor was heated by the engine.
Engines are just air pumps; the more air you can get into them, the better they run. Hot air is less dense than cold air, so you want cold air for performance. As we mentioned above in the myths section, most modern cars already have a snorkel for drawing in cold air instead of heated engine air. Some, mostly cheaper, cold air intakes can become warm air intakes if installed incorrectly. The Partol intake we mention on our list is especially susceptible. It’s hard to get that tiny pipe far enough away from the motor to suck in cold air.
Installing a Cold Air Intake
Each intake is a little different, but there are some universal steps. Always make sure to check the instructions, and if you are stuck, all the major manufacturers have helplines. Injen and S&P, especially, you can call them any time and get help.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal. That’s just something you always do whenever you work on a motor.
Remove the factory air box cover and factory filter.
Carefully disconnect and remove the sensors. Some cars use a ring style sensor that comes out as a unit, some just have a length of hose going to a little black box. If you don’t know what the sensor looks like, double-check by looking it up online.
Remove the rest of the factory air intake. The factory intake ends at a throttle body on some cars, and the entire intake will be really short. Others have miles of rubber hose.
Install the couplers for the new intake and mock it up. It’s easier to know what to do if you do a dry run and make sure there won’t be any problems during the install.
Make any adjustments necessary. Sometimes there will be things in the way that you have to remove and relocate.
Install the new intake.
Install the sensors into the new intake.
Connect the battery back up, and you’re good to go.
Let Your Engine Breathe
Hopefully, none of the myth talk or convoluted terms scared you away. Buying and installing a CAI is a rewarding thing to do and can help you connect with your car. That alone is worth it, even if it won’t add 100 horsepower and 20 mpg like the video game says it will. More

The most important instrument you can install in your vehicle is a speedometer: whether you’re trying to maximize performance on the racetrack or you just need to know how fast you can go to avoid getting pulled over, a GPS speedometer will provide accurate and vital information for drivers.
There are many reasons one might consider purchasing a GPS speedometer: conventional, wired-in speedometers break or stop working all the time, and they’re difficult and time-consuming to replace. Some vehicles, especially sporting vehicles like boats and ATVs don’t even come with speedometers, so if you want to know how fast you’re going, you’ll have to buy a separate, GPS-equipped unit.

What to Consider Before Buying a GPS Speedometer
GPS speedometers vary dramatically in price, accuracy, and form factor. Along with understanding what kind of look and function you seek in a speedo, consider the following when shopping around for the perfect product for your vehicle.
Type of GPS Speedometer
Typically, GPS speedometers come in one of two form factors. The first is designed to completely integrate with your existing instrument cluster, replacing your existing analog wired speedometer. The other type is more of a heads-up display, a separate screen that rests on your dash.
Round Gauge: Round gauge GPS speedometers replace your existing instrument-based speedometer. Make sure you buy the proper size that fits in the same size hole as your current speedo, typically 85mm.
Heads-Up Displays (HUDS): While the most advanced HUDs are typically more expensive than round gauge dashes, you can still find affordable GPS heads up displays.
Display Size
Are you looking for an enormous, TV screen-sized heads-up display, or do you just need a minimal, analog-style gauge that only measures speed? Displays range from about 1.5 inches in diameter to HUDs of well over 4 inches.
Other Data
A GPS speedometer’s main purpose is collecting and displaying speed information, but plenty of GPS speedometers offer other cool and convenient features: from real-time driving data, to tachometers, to analytics you can download after driving. A GPS Speedometer can be a very powerful tool for helping gauge and learn about the performance of your vehicle.
Installation
If you’re a car enthusiast, you’ll know that the difficulty of installing aftermarket parts varies in complexity. Car customization ranges from slapping on a new sticker decal to swapping out a transmission (or heck, a complete engine).
GPS speedometers are unique in the fact that they can usually be installed without too much fuss, although some GPS speedometer units are meant to fit directly into the instrument cluster, which requires a bit more effort and some mechanical skills to connect it to a power source. Whatever unit you pick, make sure it aligns with your technical abilities.

Top 10 Best GPS Speedometers 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: Eling Universal MPH GPS Speedometer

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Why we like it: This simple backlit analog speedometer isn’t just easy to use and operate. It’s integrated and accurate as well.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of GPS Speedometer: Round Gauge
Display Size: 3.5-inch diameter
Other Data: None
Review
This speedometer has it all: a powerful backlight to make the screen visible in all conditions, a year-long warranty protecting customers from any defects, and waterproof construction. However, there are no data-capturing or analyzing features as seen on units like the TIMPROVE T600 Universal Car HUD. We don’t see this as much of a problem given that those features aren’t used by most drivers, although if you’re looking for speed capture and analysis, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
The most interesting aspect of this speedometer is its ability to fit into a conventional dashboard. It’s not a dashboard-top unit, instead it is designed to slot perfectly in the space where a wired analog speedometer normally fits. As such, it’s powered by the electrical system of the car itself, not a USB port. While this is an advantage for some, it’s a bit of a DIY inconvenience for others.
With a max display speed of 160 miles per hour, you’ll have plenty of room to work with in terms of speed unless you’re driving a race car or a Suzuki Hayabusa. While it has an odometer for total distance, there’s no trip odometer (although the same manufacturer does have a unit similar to this one with that feature available here). Still, for accuracy, reliability, and durability, we’re willing to sacrifice a few features.
Installation
Installation is probably the biggest pain point for buyers of this speedometer: not only does it require you to open up the entire dashboard, you’ll also have to deal with relatively complex wiring to power it.
Once it’s in, though, none of the dashboard-sliding, you get with other speedometers. In our book, it’s a wash: are you looking for a permanent solution or a temporary one? If you’re not afraid to work on your display cluster and you’re looking for a long-term solution, this speedometer might just be perfect.

Pros
Long term, fully wired, permanent speedometer solution
160 MPH max speed is all but guaranteed
Powered by the car’s electric system instead of a USB port
Accurate, reliable, and durable

Cons
Requires you to open up the dashboard for installation
No speed data capture or analysis
Need to make sure you properly fit the gauge to your instrument cluster

2. Best HUD: TIMPROVE T600 Universal Car HUD

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Why we like it: Along with having some nifty features related to braking and acceleration, this HUD is solid-feeling and accurate.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of GPS Speedometer: Heads Up Display
Display Size: 3.5 x 2 inches
Other Data: Acceleration Analysis Procedure, Braking Analysis procedure
Review
A 12 volt heads up display with a solid-feeling build and an accurate sensor, this GPS speedometer from TIMPROVE is an incredibly popular model for good reasons. Alongside the typical benefits of a GPS-based computer (universal compatibility, no necessity for wiring), the T600 also has a wide variety of secondary readings from driving direction to altitude.
Also included is a multifunctional tool that can help you understand data analytics from how you drive, testing braking and acceleration accurately enough to diagnose braking and engine problems. That’s the main benefit of this HUD: its incredibly feature-rich setup. The device is simply well thought out, from an automatic brightness-adjusting screen to a 30-degree screen angle that is easy to read no matter how you set it up.
The screens are easily changed with a single dial format, while all parts (internal and external) are guaranteed by a one-year quality assurance warranty. Operation starts up quickly, typically taking only about two minutes to pair with the worldwide satellite network.
Unfortunately, the trip time function starts immediately once the device is turned on, meaning trip time will be inaccurate by the same amount of time it takes the HUD to pair: not a huge deal unless you’re doing hot laps at the race track or need super-accurate reporting for commercial use.
Installation
Similar to most heads up displays, this unit simply sets up on top of the dashboard, plugs into a 12V/24V USB power outlet, and is ready to go. While that’s great if you just need something that works as quickly as possible, it’s a bit more fickle and a less-permanent solution than a round gauge device that fits directly into your dash, like the Eling Universal MPH Gps Speedometer/Odometer with Backlight.

Pros
Durable HUD with data analytics on acceleration and braking
Installs with a simple USB to Mini-USB connection
30-degree screen angle is easy-to-read
Single dial format is easy to use
Year warranty in case of any damage or other issues

Cons
Non-slip mat can slide around
Trip timer starts automatically

3. Best Premium Pick: LATNEX GPS95 Universal Digital Waterproof GPS Speedometer

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Why we like it: This round gauge speedometer with a digital screen has great data storage but isn’t particularly attractive.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of GPS Speedometer: Round Gauge (With Digital Screen)
Display Size: 3.5 inches
Other Data: Data Storage, Data Analysis
Review
This GPS speedometer from lesser-known brand LATNEX is an 85mm option that slots directly into your existing instrument cluster, replacing a standard analog gauge with a fully-featured screen and a full potential for data tracking. That data tracking comes completely via GPS, stored within the unit until you decide to download it. And not only is it interesting, but it is useful as well, as it can help with your insurance claims and even verify status or location for legal proceedings.
The screen is a backlit, green LCD with multiple data fields: a clock function, max speed, current speed, a distance odometer, and a trip odometer. Plenty of things to read, especially as once that data is downloaded, it’s all displayed on every single point of the map. Unfortunately, though, a broken unit won’t provide data, and plenty of customers have reported issues with the screen.
And while that green LCD is plenty easy to read, there’s another problem: it’s simply not that good looking. Since its waterproof/dustproof format makes it especially friendly for motorcycle and watercraft use (where it will be most visible), it’s particularly difficult to recommend for that use case.
Sure, it’s an effective round gauge speedometer option, especially if you need accurate data analysis and storage, but other than that, you can save money with a similar backlit option like the ELING Digital GPS LCD 85 mm Speedometer.
Installation
Installation is about as easy as with other round gauge speedometers: wire it up to have power flowing through the unit and you’re off to the races. That sounds simple, but at its most complicated, it involves removing a pane of glass, taking out a speedometer, unwiring it, rewiring it, and replacing the pane of glass: it’s not as simple as filling up your gas tank or refilling your windshield wiper fluid, for example.

Pros
Green LED screen is easy to read in all conditions
Equipped with waterproof construction for watercraft and sporting vehicle use
Data tracking storage and downloadable
Easy to install as far as round gauge speedometers go

Cons
Installation is trickier than with HUDs
One of the least stylish round gauge speedometers on the market

4. Best Looking: Eling MPH GPS Speedometer with Adjustable Overspeed Alarm

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Why we like it: This pricey round-gauge speedometer is waterproof, durable, and beautifully simple.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of GPS Speedometer: Round Gauge
Display Size: 3.5 inches
Other Data: Overspeed Alarm
Review
Great for drivers who might be tempted to push the speed limit, this speedometer from well-known manufacturer Eling has a built-in adjustable alarm that gives you a warning when you’re going too fast. It’s a great reminder to stay safe on the highway or even when driving around town.
GPS speedometers are also phenomenal for boats, given that typical boats with outboard motors have no direct way to know their speed through the water. This will fit in the standard boat speedometer outlet, measuring 3 and ⅜ inches, and requiring a clearance of 55mm to fit in the socket. Unfortunately, and similarly to its lineup-sibling, the ELING Universal MPH GPS Speedometer, there’s no trip distance function, just an overall odometer.
This classic looking and stylish speedometer will last you longer than your vehicle, probably, measuring distances up to 999,999 miles and with strong customer support. Nabbing multiple spots on our list, we’re impressed with all of Eling’s round gauge speedometers.
Installation
The fact that it requires a GPS antenna is a bit of a pain up-front, but long term it will save you a lot of time over other GPS speedometers that can take up to five minutes to sync to GPS networks. This speedometer just requires a small fraction of that. Otherwise, just pop it into the existing speedometer hole and wire it to the power source (the speedometer has a manual that includes relatively in-depth installation instructions).

Pros
A premium round gauge speedometer with waterproof functionality is great for boats
Permanent installation with direct wiring
Classic and stylish look
In-depth manual is detailed enough to provide consistent and reliable information

Cons
No trip distance function
Requires 55mm of rear clearance

5. Best Budget Pick: LeaningTech Original Digital Universal Car HUD

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Why we like it: This inexpensive HUD requires next to no setup while providing accurate info and an automatically adjusting backlit LCD screen.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of GPS Speedometer: Heads Up Display
Display Size: 4 x 2 inches
Other Data: Speeding alert
Review
With no extra setup required other than plugging the unit directly into a USB port just for power, this GPS speedometer unit does exactly what it needs to do: keep things simple. Operation is managed by just three buttons: one that navigates between displays, the other one that changes the unit from KPH to MPH. Brightness is adjusted automatically via a daytime light sensor; the unit also uses green light so as to not interfere with drivers’ eyes.
The GPS takes between one and five minutes to sync, sometimes a bit of an issue if you’re in a rush, although it does measure both driving time and distance, something plenty of other speedometers lack. Our favorite feature, though, is a speeding alarm that makes sure to alert drivers when they’re speeding via three beeps, informed by GPS data.
But what’s truly special about this product is its status as the only true heads-up display on our list. The inexpensive and small unit includes a reflective sticker which, when positioned properly, reflects the screen up onto the windshield, displaying relevant, readable data on the glass itself. It’s a phenomenal and futuristic way to visually experience driving data.
Installation
With a tacky non-slip mat that simply sets up on the dashboard, installation with this unit is about as easy as it gets. But there is an annoying downside to that: with just the weight of the unit itself holding the GPS onto the dash, hard braking and acceleration can move the unit around.

Pros
Only true heads up display on the list
Three-button operation keeps things simple
Brightness is automatically adjusted
Directly plugs into USB port for power

Cons
Non-slip mat doesn’t keep the unit perfectly in place
Takes a long time to sync

6. Best Digital Display: ELING Digital GPS LCD 85 mm Speedometer

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Why we like it: This ELING GPS speedometer meshes worlds, providing an LCD screen in a round-gauge format.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of GPS Speedometer: Round Gauge
Display Size: 85 mm
Other Data: Speeding Alert, Cardinal Directions
Review
This unit mixes the digital format, accuracy, and reliability of a heads-up display with the classic look and dashboard integration of a round gauge display. It fits in a standard 3 ⅜ inch hole with a clearance of about 55mm behind the display itself.
All of the dimensions and the form factor itself is pretty standard as far as round gauge speedometers go, but where this device is really special comes when you look at the display itself: seven different backlight options all light up an brilliant, easy-to-read screen, simultaneously displaying a wide variety of statistics from cardinal directions to a trip and lifetime odometer.
It also has a speeding alert. Unfortunately, though, no data capture or analysis is available.
And with an IP67 rating that certifies the device’s water resistance, a working temperature range from negative 40 degrees to almost 200, and a fluctuating voltage that works in nearly every vehicle’s electrical system, this device isn’t just for use in all conditions, it’s also nearly universally compatible. Some might say it’s even overbuilt, but when you’re paying about three times the price of competitors, you’ve got to make it worth it somehow.
Installation
This unit requires a pretty intense installation process, taking out the existing gauge and replacing it with the GPS-enabled unit. And unlike an HUD, which doesn’t require any antenna setup during installation, this device needs to be wired to an external antenna.
The only benefit to be claimed through installation is the fact that it’s a permanent solution compared to other HUDs that just sit on top of the dash (the LeaningTech Original Digital Universal Car HUD, for example).

Pros
Standard 3 ⅜ inch size fits easily in existing dashboard space
Brilliant, easy to read screen
IP67 waterproof rating
Incredible range of functional temperatures

Cons
Overbuilt and too expensive for day-to-day use

7. Easiest to Read: TIMPROVE Universal Digital Car HUD GPS Speedometer

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Why we like it: A utilitarian HUD with a large format screen is a more permanent solution than most HUDs with an included mount.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of GPS Speedometer: Heads Up Display
Display Size: 3 inches
Other Data: Adjustable Overspeed Sensor
Review
A large-format screen meant for display and attachment directly to the dashboard, the TIMPROVE Universal Digital Car HUD GPS Speedometer is an excellent and more permanent alternative to dashboard-top units like the TIMPROVE Universal Digital Car HUD GPS Speedometer. By including a mount that attaches directly instead of a non-stick mount, it turns a temporary solution into an effective and integrated permanent one.
Using the same green LEDs that are designed to be easy on the eyes as other HUDs such as LeaningTech Original Digital Universal Car HUD, this unit is as user-friendly as it is well designed. A single button control toggles between screens and data fields and requires only a connection to a USB power source (no antenna installation necessary).
It’s also fully featured: along with the standby speed and odometer functions, it also has a driving timer that can be paused, a trip distance tracker, and an adjustable overspeed sensor. The unit itself feels a little flimsy and isn’t weather-resistant, but if you want something for the interior of your car and you don’t want to wire in a new speedometer, it’s hard to go wrong with this device.
Installation
At 4.8 ounces, this is one of the lightest units on our list, functional and useful for smaller vehicles like motorcycles, mopeds, and even bicycles. Setup is easy, powered by a Mini-USB to USB connection, setting up on an included mount that is both multipurpose, durable, and flexible.

Pros
Only requires a connection to a GPS power source
Adjustable overspeed sensor
Trip distance tracker
Doesn’t require any wiring

Cons
Unit feels flimsy
No water resistance/weather resistance

8. Best for Performance Vehicles: ACECAR Heads Up Display

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Why we like it: This HUD from brand ACECAR is great for those looking to add a custom touch to their vehicle. It also pulls live OBDII data.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of GPS Speedometer: Heads Up Display
Display Size: 3.5 inches
Other Data: Fatigue Alarm, Engine RPM
Review
This performance-oriented and relatively pricey heads up display is an homage to a race car dash, the brilliantly colored screen displaying data in real-time in a compelling and visually appealing way.
In this way and at this price point, it’s really more of a custom vehicle modification than more utilitarian units like the LeaningTech Original Digital Universal Car HUD, with a price tag to match.
But for the custom, tuned, car meet crowd, interesting and colorful dashes are a quick and simple way to add aesthetic value to the dashboard or interior.
A custom HUD is also a phenomenal way to better understand and read the data of your vehicle, with this one displaying not only speed (more accurately than even a standard odometer), engine RPM, a fatigue alarm designed to keep drivers awake, and even an input to the OBDII port that can display engine error codes.
All of these features come displayed on a screen with a feature for brightness adjustment (with both manual and automatic control options). While the feature that can help display and diagnose error codes is both unique and interesting, it’s only functional on certain cars post-2008. Customer support is responsive and helpful, although the durability of the unit itself is somewhat questionable.
Installation
Unlike any other speedometer on the list, this device pulls most of its display information from the OBDll port itself, the same port that error codes come from. That means the install is quite easy from a wiring perspective; no need to crack your dashboard open and no need to mess with any wiring. It’s also a completely authentic HUD, reflecting directly onto the windshield instead of only serving as an auxiliary screen. It’s the real deal.

Pros
Pulls information from the OBDII port, no need for wiring
Custom HUD makes data easy to read on dash
Colored screen improves the look of your vehicle
Manual and automatic brightness adjustment

Cons
Unit has a quite high price tag
Durability is not a strong suit

9. Easiest to Use: Kingneed Original Universal GPS HUD Odometer

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Why we like it: An economical HUD has plenty of features and is quite easy to setup, although accuracy at high speeds can be questionable.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of GPS Speedometer: Heads Up Display
Display Size: 4 inches
Other Data: Time and Mileage Tracker
Review
This HUD’s best feature is, well, its features: a stop/start driving timer is included as a secondary data field, as well as an altitude sensor, a distance calculator that can count down as well as up, a conventional odometer, and a programmable clock.
Unfortunately, as fully equipped as the unit is, there’s no data capture or analysis as with more expensive HUDs like with the TIMPROVE T600 Universal Car HUD.
That’s okay for us, though: at about three-quarters of the price, it doesn’t feel completely necessary to have every last bell and whistle, especially considering that setup is easier than the more expensive models.
This unit also contains features that some premium models don’t have, for example, an hourly alarm meant to help keep drivers awake and alert, and a mileage and time sensor that can be downloaded after the fact, so really, it’s only missing acceleration and braking data.
As with any budget product that claims to be as good as the premium version, there are a few issues. Primarily, water resistance and durability: keep this unit well mounted and well protected from the elements, or you’ll be buying a new one before you know it. Also an issue is accurate speed, as readings over about 75 mph are somewhat suspect.
Installation
Installation is about as easy as most HUDs, setting up on your dash via a powered USB port and ready to go in seconds. While it won’t stay permanently in place, it’s not meant to: it’s a dashboard-top unit. Still, those looking for permanence should check out a round gauge product, like the relatively inexpensive Eling Universal MPH GPS Speedometer/Odometer with Backlight.

Pros
Includes an hourly alarm meant to keep drivers alert
Inexpensive unit keeps things simple
Installation is remarkably easy
Has an abundance of necessary data fields

Cons
Accuracy at speed can be unreliable
Dashboard top unit can move around during use
No water resistance
Durability isn’t great

10. Best for Recreational Vehicles: VJOYCAR Universal Digital GPS Speedometer HUD

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Why we like it: With an included mount and waterproof design, this unit is great for those that need a speedometer or heads up display for recreational motor vehicles or boats.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Type of GPS Speedometer: Heads Up Display
Display Size: 3 inches
Other Data: Overspeed Alarm, Driving Time
Review
Looking for something that works better on a motorcycle, ATV, or snowmobile than a sedan? Consider this GPS-powered speedometer from direct-to-consumer brand VJOYCAR. It’s a compact heads up display that sits on your dash or near your controls console, more compact and slim than most other HUDs but still boasting a large, easy-to-read three-inch screen.
The look and function are interlinked, with a slick carbon fiber finish hiding the fact that the speedometer is completely waterproof. Especially as the device is meant for use for sporting vehicles that might spend time in the rain, we appreciate the fact that manufacturer VJOYCAR took the time to make the device truly waterproof.
With an adjustable overspeed alarm meant to help you monitor your speed, the manufacturer isn’t just looking out for your vehicle, but for you as well. Our only complaint is the fact that the beeps aren’t really loud enough to hear over wind noise when driving a motorcycle, boat, or snowmobile at speed. Fortunately, that issue is made up for by the fact that other features include a trip odometer, lifetime odometer, and display that can display both KPH and MPH.
Installation
As far as HUD speedometers go, it’s not the easiest in the world to set up, especially on sporting vehicles. There is an included mount is better than the non-slip mats that come with some devices, but it’s fragile enough that it’s probably worth it to invest in a third party option instead of using the factory version.

Pros
Truly waterproof and dustproof construction is great for motorcycles and boats
Data is tracked, maintained on the device, and fully downloadable
Overspeed alarm can help you monitor speeding habits
Fully featured with both trip and distance odometers

Cons
Installation is a little tricky and requires rewiring
The round-gauge speedo isn’t very good looking

Guide to Buying the Best GPS Speedometer for 2020
While a GPS speedometer is a small investment next to most car improvements you might make to your car, it’s important, keeping you safe under the speed limit and fulfilling a vital legal requirement for all cars on the road in the US. Read on to learn how you can maximize the value you get out of a GPS speedometer system.
Styling
Beauty in a speedometer is subjective: just as with cars in general, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. While some prefer classic-style analog-dial GPS speedometers and others want a full digital dash, there are some universal styling tips that can help your aftermarket GPS speedometer blend in seamlessly.
Pay Attention to Color
Contrary to what you might think, matching a gray dash to a gray speedometer can often go wrong if the two tones don’t perfectly match with each other. A much better idea? Pick a color that matches with your interior accents (anodized red, blue, or your personal preference. If you’re not into a more custom look and you want your GPS speedometer to blend in with no fuss, black will always, always blend in just fine.
Secure Mounting
While round gauge speedometers fit directly into instrument clusters, dashboard-top HUDs suffer from the annoying problem of sliding around during hard acceleration or braking. While some manufacturers offer mounts (the TIMPROVE Universal Digital Car HUD GPS Speedometer is a good example) or non-slip pads on the base.
While those looking for a truly permanent solution will probably be better served by an option that fits into the dash, you can buy dual-sided tape or Velcro to create a DIY solution.
Installing a GPS Speedometer
While a GPS speedometer is a lot easier to install than a traditional wired speedometer, there’s still a significant amount of work that needs to go into the installation of round gauge models, and some work that goes into a dashboard-top unit. Consider the following before purchasing.
Powering Your GPS Speedometer
The biggest benefit of a GPS speedometer? It doesn’t always have to be wired into your car’s existing electronics to function properly. Unfortunately, that means you’ll have to rely on some type of auxiliary power to bring electricity to the GPS, most often a USB-mini USB port or connection. While most cars made in the last ten years have a USB port installed, older vehicles typically require something that fits into a cigarette lighter or auxiliary power outlet. Purchase a 12V/24V option to power all of the options on this list.
Wiring Your Speedometer
While HUD GPS speedometers simply sit on your dashboard and only require a USB to a power source, round gauge speedometers need to be wired up to the existing power behind the dashboard. Most owner’s manuals will give you a rough idea, and the process isn’t particularly difficult, but check out the video below for a visual representation of the wiring process. Most steps are relatively universal across products.
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GPS Antenna Setup
Figuring out your antenna takes you one step further than wiring in a conventional power setup, requiring you to use a connector to turn an existing cable into a GPS antenna. While ELING products actually don’t require an independent GPS wiring process, other round gauge speedometers use a simple connector to break open the wire sheath and then connect to the wire itself.
If you’re not confident enough to do this process yourself, it’s probably a good idea to take the unit to your local auto shop. They’ll be able to help you out. Your speedometer owner’s manual will describe it in more detail.
Speedometer Screen/Feature Setup
A pro tip? If you’re planning on reselling your car after installing a GPS speedometer, make sure your odometer can be adjusted to read your previous odometer reading. When reselling vehicles, tampering or misrepresenting mileage is a felony under federal regulations.
Most GPS speedometers are quite simple to use. Simply check the user manual and use the physical buttons to set up the display to your liking. Since most units have fewer than ten functions, operating these products typically is not too difficult to manage.
GPS Speedometer Laws
Cars are legally required to have functioning speedometers in all 50 states, so if you don’t have a functional speedometer in your dashboard (they break for all kinds of reasons), you’ll have to pick up a GPS speedometer for when that cop pulls you over and asks you how fast you were going.
In your car, you should absolutely make sure you have an accurate speedometer that works in all conditions. Purchasing an inaccurate model to save a buck could end up costing you big time later in the form of an expensive citation.
That being said, each state has different regulations on how accurate a GPS unit must be. For private, non-commercial vehicles, this can vary.
Federal guidelines for commercial traffic state that commercial vehicles (busses, trucks, or truck-tractors) must have a reading accurate to 5 miles per hour while traveling at a speed of 50 miles per hour. Many states follow that same guidance for non-commercial vehicles.
Other Products for Your Dashboard
There are plenty of other fantastic products that don’t only improve the look of your dashboard, but can also improve your experience while driving. From advanced heads up displays to GPS units, consider the following to make life as a driver a bit easier.
Car Compasses: Whether it’s for looks, navigation purposes, or both, a car compass looks awfully good up next to a brand spanking new GPS speedometer. And if you’re out of cell range, it could even save you someday.
Dash Camera: No one has ever regretted owning a dash camera after a road incident or accident. Dash cams are inexpensive and easy to set up: your future self will thank you.
Police Scanner: It’s a right for drivers to be able to keep up with the movements of law enforcement and local emergency personnel. Whether you’re doing long hauls and looking to stay entertained or you’re trying to minimize the possibility of a law-enforcement related hassle, a police scanner is a great addition to your dash.
Frequently Asked Questions
For an inexpensive and convenient accessory, GPS speedometers are actually incredibly technologically advanced. Some of the most common questions on the unique products are answered below.
Will a GPS Speedometer Work Everywhere?
Yes! GPS speedometers rely on the same satellite networks that power everything from military navigation systems to bicycle computers: as long as your antenna has visual access to the sky, your speedometer can work anywhere. If the signal happens to drop out, some GPS computers have features that extrapolate speed so that your computer still has some reliability.
Where Do I Mount the Antenna?
One of the most difficult parts of installing a round gauge, cluster mounted GPS speedometer is figuring out how and where to wire your antenna. This article does a great job of explaining, but the simplest answer is that there are wires running under your dash that can function as an antenna. Just browse your GPS speedometer owner’s manual to find the proper spot to thread in your connector or check out this article on antenna placement.
Is There a Speedometer on Google Maps?
Not only is there a speedometer function built into the Google Maps app that you can use on your cell phone, there’s also a built-in overspeed sensor that alerts you when you’re speeding based on Google’s knowledge of the road network (which, as a warning, isn’t 100% accurate).
So, the short answer? Yes, there is a speedometer function built in on Google Maps that can be accessed within the app. Is it as accurate as a GPS speedometer? Definitely not.
Can I Use an App-Based Speedometer?
Search the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store and you’ll be sure to find plenty of developers claiming to produce ultra-accurate speedometer apps. But there are several problems with this approach. Firstly, you’re living at the whims of state legislation and local enforcement of regulations related to phone use while driving.
Secondly, you’re using the application of a developer who has more of an incentive to produce a slick-looking product than to produce a reliable one. It’s worth it to shell out the few bucks to purchase either a dashboard-mounted device or a round gauge device that fits directly into your instrument cluster.
How Accurate are GPS Speedometers?
GPS speedometers, when working perfectly, are just as accurate or even more accurate than wired speedometers, normally with a speed tolerance range of under 2% in either direction. The only issue comes when there’s a satellite network dropout, in which case you’re pretty much out of luck—most speedometers will read as zero miles per hour until they come back into range.
Wrapping Up
A GPS speedometer is one of the simplest ways to improve your vehicle: from using data to help you understand your car better (as with the case of TIMPROVE T600 Universal Car HUD), to adding a custom touch to your interior, to giving you an option to accurately measure your speed using GPS, a custom speedometer is a great, inexpensive way to customize your ride. More