VIAIR 450C 12V Air Compressor
- 150 psi max pressure, 12V DC
- 1.66 cfm airflow, 0.2 hp motor
- Continuous duty cycle, thermal overload protection
- 2.5 gallon tank from 0 to 145 PSI in 3 minutes
- No tank included, rated for tanks up to 5 gallons
- 10 A max current draw
- 68 dB noise rating
- 10.8 pounds, 10.6 x 3.99 x 6.87 inches
Last refreshed Sep 7, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A strong core for a permanent onboard air system that runs tools from a vehicle tank. Plan on sourcing the tank and a pressure switch separately, since neither appears in the parts list.
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ASIN: B000FQ78VIModel: 45040Category: Tire Air Compressors & Inflators
Overview
Mobile mechanics, oil field technicians and builders of onboard air systems get a battery powered compressor meant to be hard mounted in a vehicle or machine. It wires straight to the battery, feeds a tank or manifold through a braided leader hose, and runs off a pressure switch or your own control system.
A continuous duty rating plus thermal protection lets it run long fills without babysitting, which matters when air tools draw from the tank all day. Expect real installation work: wiring to the battery, plumbing a tank and adding a switch. Warranty coverage is short.
Who it's for
Service trucks, job site rigs and off-road builds that need air on demand at a remote location are where it belongs. Drivers who only top up a tire now and then should choose a plug in portable inflator instead.
Pros and cons
- Continuous duty rating for long runs
- Thermal overload protector and check valve
- Vibration isolators and mounting hardware included
- Remote mount air filter with spare elements
- Tank sold separately
- Pressure switch absent from the parts list
- 30 day manufacturer warranty
- Must be wired directly to a battery
Performance notes
Fill speed depends on the airflow rating against the size of the tank it feeds, so a small tank recovers quickly and a larger one takes proportionally longer. Supply matters too: the motor draws its current straight from the battery, so wiring and battery condition shape how it performs. The thermal protector stops the motor if it overheats rather than letting it run to failure.
Specifications
| Brand | Viair |
|---|---|
| Model | 45040 |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Item weight | 10.8 pounds |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 10.6 × 4 × 6.9 inches |
| Compatible hose diameter | 0.2 inches |
| Capacity & performance | |
| Noise | 68 dB |
| Duty cycle | Continuous |
| Power & efficiency | |
| Power Source | Battery, Corded Electric |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Maximum Power | 149 watts |
| Construction & materials | |
| Material Type | Aluminum |
| Color | Silver |
| Warranty & support | |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 30 days |
| Other details | |
| Maximum Pressure | 150 psi |
| Maximum Current | 10 A |
Frequently asked questions
How do you install the VIAIR 450C compressor?
Connect it directly to the battery or a suitable power distribution point, then run the leader hose to your tank or manifold. It runs off a pressure switch or ties into your control system. Mounting hardware, vibration isolators, a remote mount air filter and installation instructions are included.
Does the VIAIR 450C come with an air tank?
No. It feeds a tank or manifold you supply, and the included parts list has no tank.
Is the VIAIR 450C a portable tire inflator?
Not in the plug in sense. It is a hard mounted compressor wired to a battery; paired with a tank and hose it can inflate tires and run air tools.
What spare parts come with the VIAIR 450C?
The remote mount air filter assembly comes with 2 replacement air filter elements.