If you have ever laid a tire wrench on a lug nut that would not budge, you already know the problem: truck lug nuts seat well above what a household ratchet can turn, and a light cordless impact will stall and smoke the nut instead of freeing it. A half-ton pickup usually wants an impact wrench with at least 600 ft-lb of real breakaway torque, a 3/4-ton wants 800 ft-lb or more, and dually or heavy-duty owners should look past 1000 ft-lb.
That is what we used to sort the field for this guide to the best cordless impact wrenches for truck lug nuts. We spent weeks reading spec sheets, buyer reviews and torque claims across twelve 1/2-inch drive tools, then grouped them by the job they actually fit: a one-battery starter kit, a two-pack garage set, a bare tool for owners already deep in a battery platform, and a full-size kit for heavy brake and suspension hardware.
One thing to clear up before we get into the list. The big number printed on the box is almost never the number you care about. Max fastening torque is what the tool can produce driving a fastener in. Breakaway torque, sometimes called nut-bust torque, is what it can produce pulling a corroded nut off. Only the second one matters when you are changing a wheel, and a wrench can be excellent at one and unimpressive at the other. We will flag which is which for every pick below.
If you also want a broader look at the format, our impact wrench roundup covers the general categories, while this list stays laser-focused on lug nut work.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Cordless Impact Wrenches for Truck Lug Nuts in 2026
We picked these three as the widest spread of capability in the group: the strongest all-round kit, the best-built tool for owners who already own batteries, and the cheapest kit that still reports breaking real truck lugs.
DEWALT DCF900P1 20V MAX
- 1400 ft-lb max breakaway
- 1030 ft-lb max fastening
- 4-mode speed control
- Kit with 5.0Ah battery and charger
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2967-20
- 1000 ft-lb fastening and nut-bust
- 4-mode drive control
- 7.6-inch length
- Sold as tool only
Takuoo 1/2-inch 900 ft-lb
- 900 ft-lb claimed breakaway
- 3-speed brushless
- 2 x 4.0Ah packs
- 6 impact sockets included
Every Cordless Impact Wrench in This Test in 2026
All twelve tools below are 1/2-inch square drive, which is the correct size for the wheel lugs on every half-ton, three-quarter-ton and dually pickup sold in the US. Weight and drive type are listed so you can see the spread at a glance.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 20V MAX DCF900P1 |
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 Protmex 900 ft-lb 21V |
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| Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2967-20 |
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 Alloyman 1500 ft-lb |
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 CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCF940M1 |
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| Takuoo 900 ft-lb |
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 AOBEN 1500 N.m |
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 JEXUGK 1500 N.m |
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 TaskStar 1400 N.m |
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 RYOBI 18V HP PBLIW01B |
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 MAGSEN 900 ft-lb |
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 DIYtoolifz 1110 ft-lb |
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How Much Torque Do Truck Lug Nuts Actually Need?
Here is the short answer most truck owners want: a half-ton pickup needs roughly 400-650 ft-lb of breakaway torque, a three-quarter-ton needs 800-1000 ft-lb, and a dually or one-ton truck needs 1000-1400 ft-lb. Buying above that tier costs you money and weight you do not need, but buying below it means you will stop mid-job.
Those numbers describe the tool, not the nut. Lug nuts on most pickups are specified somewhere between 140 and 190 ft-lb when tightened, and the nut only needs to break the static friction holding it to the stud. Add road salt, a mud-caked fender liner, or a lug that was torqued in a shop three years ago and never moved again, and the torque the tool has to deliver climbs well past factory spec.
The difference between breakaway and fastening torque is where most buyers go wrong. Fastening torque is the number a manufacturer is proud to print, because it is the maximum the tool can produce pushing a nut on. Breakaway torque is what pulls it off. A wrench can advertise a very large fastening figure and a modest breakaway figure, and it will happily strip threads during installation while still failing to move a seized nut.
Skip to the buying guide below if you want the drive size and anvil details. First, a safety note that belongs in every wheel job: finish the nut with a torque wrench. On the F150 forum, owners driving trucks with wheel studs specified in the 130-160 ft-lb range are near-universal about never trusting an impact wrench alone to set final torque, because over-torqued studs stretch and rotors warp. We cover the right tools for that step in our torque wrench picks.
One more safety item before any wheel comes off. Use impact-rated sockets, never chrome hand-tool sockets. An impact wrench sends a sharp torsional pulse into the socket every time the hammer strikes, and a thin-wall hand socket can shatter and send fragments across the driveway. Buy a set of impact sockets in the sizes your truck uses and treat the cheap ones that come in a kit as spares.
How We Picked These Wrenches
We grouped the twelve candidates into four buckets based on what the data in the product listings and buyer reviews actually supports, rather than on advertised torque alone.
First, real-world feedback on truck work. We weighted reviews that mention removing a lug nut, breaking a rusted fastener or working under a truck far more heavily than reviews that only mention assembling furniture. Second, the split between claimed breakaway and claimed fastening torque, so you can see where a marketing number and a working number diverge. Third, what is actually in the box, because a bare tool at a low price is only a deal if you already own batteries.
We also tracked weight with the battery installed, mode and trigger control, anvil type, and the size of the review base, because a 4.8 average across 2,700 reviews tells you far more than a 4.8 across 90. Where buyers reported a specific failure, we repeated it here so you are not the one discovering it.
1. DEWALT 20V MAX DCF900P1 – 1400 ft-lb Breakaway in a Complete Kit
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench (DCF900P1)
20V MAX brushless
1400 ft-lb max breakaway
1030 ft-lb max fastening
4-mode speed
11 lb with kit battery
Pros
- 1400 ft-lb claimed breakaway and 1030 ft-lb fastening suits truck lug work
- 4-mode speed plus variable trigger limits run-off on smaller fasteners
- BatteryGuard shock-absorbing connection protects the pack
- LED work light on tool
- Kit includes 5.0Ah battery plus charger and bag
Cons
- Heavier bulk than compact 1/2-inch options tires the hand over a full set of lugs
- Listed weight of 11 pounds works against overhead wheel work
- Only one 5.0Ah battery in the kit so a full rotation means swapping packs
This is the one we keep on the truck. The DCF900P1 pairs a 1400 ft-lb claimed breakaway figure with 1030 ft-lb max fastening, and unlike most tools in this group it arrives as a complete kit with a 5.0Ah battery, a charger and a bag. That matters more than the raw number, because nothing else about owning a cordless wrench is simpler than opening a box and having a working tool.
The four-mode speed settings with a variable speed trigger are the feature we would not trade away. Mode one is fine for caliper bolts and wheel-well fasteners, and the higher modes are what actually move a 150 ft-lb lug. Being able to back the tool off the low setting for smaller hardware is the difference between a wrench you use for everything and one you use only for wheels.
Buyer feedback lines up with the spec sheet. Across 2,763 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, with 89 percent five-star, owners consistently point to the torque class as the reason it handles truck lug nuts and rusted suspension fasteners, and to the multi-mode control for controlled tightening. The BatteryGuard shock-absorbing connection between tool and pack comes up as a durability detail rather than a gimmick.
The honest weakness is mass. At a listed 11 pounds, this is not a tool you want to hold over your head on a roof rack, and owners describe it as bulkier than compact half-inch options during a long session. If your work is mostly wheel and brake jobs, that is an acceptable trade for the power and the complete kit. If you also do a lot of overhead suspension work on a lifted truck, keep reading to the Milwaukee.
Is the DEWALT DCF900P1 strong enough for a three-quarter-ton or dually?
Yes, on paper and in practice. The 1400 ft-lb breakaway claim sits at the top of the range needed for a one-ton or dually with badly corroded lugs, and the review base describes it handling exactly that work. Owners also report it moving rusted suspension fasteners, which is the harder test than a wheel nut.
The important caveat is that no manufacturer independently verifies these figures, so treat 1400 ft-lb as a class statement rather than a measured number. What you can rely on is the 2,763-review base, where buyers repeatedly report lug nuts coming off without stalling.
Who should skip the DEWALT DCF900P1?
Skip it if your only goal is a cheap first wrench and you already own nothing from the 20V MAX platform, because the price of the kit is largely the battery and charger inside it. Skip it if you want a bare tool you can pair with packs you already have, since this one is a kit configuration.
Also consider a lighter option if weight over the fender is a constant concern for you. For most owners doing seasonal tire work, a single rotation, and the occasional seized brake caliper, the power here is the right amount of tool.
2. Protmex 900 ft-lb 21V – Two Batteries and a Socket Set in the Box
Protmex 900Ft-lbs (1200N.m) Impact Wrench, 1/2″ Cordless Impact Gun, 21V High Torque Brushless Impact Driver, 2×4.0Ah Batteries Electric Impact Motor Variable Speeds for Car/Pickup Truck/Mower, Blue
21V brushless
900 ft-lb (1200 N.m) claimed
Three speed modes to 3500 RPM
Two 4.0Ah packs, charger, four sockets
Pros
- Two 4.0Ah packs plus charger included
- Brushless motor runs cooler and quieter than brushed designs
- Carrying case and socket set keep the kit organized
- Handles routine tire changes and seasonal wheel swaps
- Low entry cost for a two-battery garage set
Cons
- Advertised 900 ft-lbs widely seen as overstated with one verified buyer estimating real output near 200 ft-lbs and struggling at 150 ft-lb lug nuts
- Forward and reverse switch sits close to the grip and is easy to flip
- Socket fit on the anvil is a little loose
This is the kit most first-time buyers end up with, and for routine wheel work on a half-ton it does the job. Two 4.0Ah packs, a fast charger, four impact sockets, an extension rod and a carrying case all come in the box, which is more than most competitors at this level hand you.
The brushless motor runs across three speed modes up to 3500 RPM, and reviewers consistently note it stays cooler and quieter than older brushed designs. The two-way brake stop in reverse stops a loosened nut from flying off the stud, which is a genuine safety feature when you are working over a loose wheel.
Now the part worth slowing down for. One verified buyer working on a 2020 Ford Explorer estimated real output closer to 200 ft-lbs and reported that it struggled with lug nuts torqued to 150 ft-lbs. That is exactly the failure mode this article is about. A wrench that quits halfway through a lug nut on a cold morning is worse than a smaller wrench that finishes the job and lets you fit a cheater bar.
Most owners are happy, though, using it for car and light truck tire work and general garage jobs, and the 1,872-review base at 4.6 stars with 80 percent five-star reflects that. If you are buying this for your first cordless wrench and your truck is a half-ton with clean lug nuts, it will serve you well. If you have a dually or a truck that sits in salt all winter, keep looking.
Will the Protmex actually break a rusted truck lug nut?
Sometimes, and that qualifier is the whole story. Buyers doing seasonal swaps on trucks report it handling routine tire changes quickly, which means typical lug torque. The verified report of struggle at 150 ft-lb is the outlier that matters, and it tells you the claimed 900 ft-lb figure should not be trusted for a seized nut.
A practical workaround exists if you already own this: carry a breaker bar or a cheater bar as backup for the first quarter turn, then let the wrench finish. But if buying a second tool to fix the first is your plan, we would rather point you at a higher class of wrench in the first place.
Who should skip the Protmex 900 ft-lb?
Skip it if you already own batteries from another brand and were hoping to use them, because this kit bundles its own packs. Skip it if seized hardware is a normal part of your work, for the torque reliability reason above.
Do consider it if budget is the deciding factor and you want a complete two-battery set for occasional tire work. Just buy a decent impact socket set separately, since the included four sizes are a starting point rather than a full truck coverage.
3. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2967-20 – 1000 ft-lb With a Friction Ring Anvil
Milwaukee Electric – M18 Fuel 1/2 HIGH Torque Impact Wrench W/FRICTI
18V FUEL brushless
1000 ft-lb fastening and nut-bust
7.6 inch length
Friction ring anvil
2.7 kg
Pros
- Owners report effortless removal of 150-185 ft-lb lug nuts
- Compact body for its power level in tight wheel wells
- Four-mode speed and torque settings genuinely useful
- Friction ring anvil makes socket changes fast
- All-metal drive train for long service life
Cons
- Very heavy for a compact tool with one reviewer describing it as holding a gold brick
- Sold as a tool only so batteries and charger are separate
- Reverse button on the handle is easy to engage mid-job
This is the wrench owners on truck forums recommend most often, and the reason is simple: the 2967-20 is rated at 1000 ft-lb of fastening torque and 1000 ft-lb of nut-bust torque with M18 REDLITHIUM FORGE batteries. For most half-tons and three-quarter-tons, that lands exactly in the tier the truck requires, with no gap between what it can pull and what it can push.
The 7.6-inch length is the underrated part. On a truck with a deep wheel well or a fender liner that sits close to the tire, a shorter tool with a friction ring anvil is the difference between reaching the nut and angling your wrist to get at it. The friction ring also means you push the socket on to lock it and pull to release, with no ball pin to lose.
Owners with heavy-duty trucks and trailers describe it as the tool that finally breaks loose nuts nothing else touched, including Redlock-torqued end nuts and clutch hub nuts. The 4.8-star average across 1,833 reviews with 89 percent five-star is well supported, and the all-metal drive train is the reason several reviewers describe it as a tool they expect to still own in a decade.
The complaints cluster around weight and packaging. At 2.7 kg the tool alone is heavy for its size, and one reviewer described it as holding a gold brick. It is sold as a bare tool, so if you do not already own M18 packs and a charger, those are separate purchases. That is the ecosystem argument: M18 packs last a long time and there are packs everywhere, but you are starting from zero.
Is the Milwaukee M18 FUEL enough for truck lug nuts?
Yes for half-ton and three-quarter-ton trucks. Owners report removing 150 to 185 ft-lb lug nuts without drama, and 1000 ft-lb of nut-bust torque gives real margin over factory tightening spec. For a dually or a one-ton that has sat in road salt, the DEWALT DCF900P1 at the top of this list has more headroom.
One practical warning straight from owner feedback: the reverse button on the handle is positioned where your thumb rests, and it is easy to change direction mid-job without meaning to. Get in the habit of checking direction before you pull the trigger, especially on a truck with studs that back out.
Who should skip the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2967-20?
Skip it if you want batteries and charger in the box, since this is a tool-only purchase and you will need to price M18 packs separately. Skip it if weight over your head matters more than power, since the mass is high relative to the class.
Do buy it if you already own any M18 batteries, because it will be the least expensive path to a genuinely powerful wrench for your truck. Full run-time comes from FORGE packs, though standard REDLITHIUM packs still run the tool.
4. Alloyman 1500 ft-lb – The Largest Claimed Figure in the Group
Alloyman Cordless Impact Wrench 1500 FT-LBS(2000N.M),1/2″ High Torque
20V brushless
1500 ft-lb (2000 N.m) claimed breakaway
Three torque and speed presets
Two 4000mAh packs, charger, three sockets
Pros
- Highest claimed breakaway figure in this group at 1500 ft-lbs
- Three torque and speed presets let you dial down for delicate fasteners
- Two 4000mAh batteries charge to full in about two hours
- Grip designed to damp vibration in greasy conditions
- 365-day warranty with free parts or replacement
Cons
- 7 percent one-star rating which is the highest share in this batch
- Torque claims are manufacturer-stated and not independently verified
- Kits include only three socket sizes which is fewer than most competitors
On paper, this is the most powerful tool in the group, with a claimed 1500 ft-lb of breakaway torque from a 20V brushless motor. The three preset modes are specific rather than generic: roughly 159 N.m at 1050 RPM, 590 N.m at 1500 RPM, and 2000 N.m at 2100 RPM. That staged layout is the right design for wheel work because the lowest mode protects smaller suspension hardware.
The kit is well built out. Two 4000mAh batteries reach full charge in about two hours, the grip is designed to damp vibration in greasy conditions, and the 365-day warranty with free parts or replacement is longer than the standard one-year most brands in this tier offer.
Be careful with the headline number. Buyers drawn to it for truck and trailer lug nut removal generally report that it delivers on that use case, but the 4.4-star average across 1,554 reviews includes a 7 percent one-star share, the highest of any tool here. That is a real group of people who found the gap between the claim and their experience disappointing.
The 2000 N.m figure is a manufacturer statement with no independent verification behind it. Compare that to the Milwaukee, where 1000 ft-lb is backed by owner reports of specific seized nuts coming loose. A bigger printed number is not better evidence.
Is the Alloyman strong enough for dually and trailer wheels?
That is the use case this tool is marketed to and the one buyers buy it for, and the feedback on trailer and truck lug work is generally positive. Two batteries mean you can work a full vehicle without stopping, which matters on a trailer axle where every nut is the same size and there are many of them.
Because the claims are unverified, we would not build a dually service kit around this alone. If seized lugs are your normal condition, pick a tool with a larger verified review base describing exactly that job.
Who should skip the Alloyman 1500 ft-lb?
Skip it if you are sensitive to failure rates, since the one-star share is the highest in this batch. Skip it if you want a large socket selection in the box, because three sizes will not cover a full truck wheel range.
Consider it if you work on trailers and heavy equipment on a budget and need two batteries in the box to get through a vehicle. Just buy an impact socket set at the same time, since you will need more than three sizes.
5. CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCF940M1 – 1000 ft-lb With Battery, Charger and Bag
CRAFTSMAN V20 RP Cordless Impact Wrench, Battery and Charger (CMCF940M1)
20V brushless
1000 ft-lb breakaway torque
700 ft-lb max tightening
Hog ring anvil
3 speed settings
Pros
- Owners report removing and reinstalling lug nuts and control arms and struts with ease
- One reviewer used it on a rear axle main bolt that is notoriously hard to break free
- 91 percent five-star across 993 reviews with multi-year ownership reports
- Battery plus charger and soft bag included
- Three speed settings give usable torque control
Cons
- Considered heavy for its size by multiple owners
- 700 ft-lbs can over-torque lug nuts so finish with a torque wrench
- Only one 4.0Ah battery in the kit for a full vehicle
This is the value pick in a group where everything else costs considerably more. It delivers 1000 ft-lb of claimed breakaway torque and 700 ft-lb max tightening torque from a brushless motor, with a hog ring anvil, three speed settings and a variable speed trigger. The kit includes a 4.0Ah battery, a charger and a soft bag.
What stands out in the reviews is durability. Long-term owners frequently report two or more years of continuous use on trucks and mower blades without failure, and one reviewer used it to remove a rear axle main bolt, which is the kind of job that usually ends with a breaker bar. A 4.8-star average across 993 reviews with 91 percent five-star is a strong signal for a tool at this price point.
Owners describe it handling the full range of truck work, not just wheels. Control arms, struts and transmission bolts all come up as successes, and the VERSATRACK battery platform means the pack you buy here works across a range of other V20 tools.
The caution that shows up repeatedly is not about removal but about installation. With 700 ft-lb of fastening torque available, it is very easy to overtighten a lug nut and stretch a stud. Multiple reviewers explicitly warn to use a torque wrench when tightening. Treat that as a feature of the tool, not a flaw: it tells you how much power is on the trigger.
Is the CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCF940M1 right for a three-quarter-ton?
Yes. 1000 ft-lb of claimed breakaway torque matches the three-quarter-ton tier, and the reports of removing control arms, struts and axle bolts go well beyond what a half-ton needs. If your truck has bigger hardware or a dually setup, the DEWALT at the top of the list gives you more margin.
The hog ring anvil is worth knowing about. You pull the retaining ring back to slide a socket on and release it to lock, which is faster than a ball pin and means nothing small to drop into a wheel well.
Who should skip the CRAFTSMAN V20?
Skip it if you need a bare tool to pair with existing packs, since this is a kit. Skip it if you have no torque wrench, because 700 ft-lb of tightening torque with no reference tool is how studs get stretched.
Do buy it if you want a complete working set for truck maintenance without the price of a premium brand. The multi-year ownership reports are the most compelling part of the feedback here.
6. Takuoo 1/2-inch 900 ft-lb – Light in the Hand With a Six-Socket Kit
Takuoo Cordless Impact Wrench 1/2″, 1200N.m High Torque Electric Impact Gun
21V brushless
1200 N.m (900 ft-lb) claimed breakaway
Three speeds to 3300 RPM
2 kg, six impact sockets included
Pros
- Owners report spinning off lug nuts on older trucks and 3/4-ton trucks with ease
- Light in the hand for a 900 ft-lb class wrench with balanced weight distribution
- Two 4.0Ah batteries plus charger and six sockets in an organized case
- Verified owners confirm it torques to spec when checked with a torque wrench
- Reported durability over two years of front suspension and shock work
Cons
- Included deep-well sockets are too long for tight spaces under a truck
- Long-term durability is not yet established across the review base
This is the one we would tell a budget buyer to pick. At 2 kg it is noticeably light for a wrench claiming 900 ft-lb of breakaway torque, and the weight distribution is balanced rather than nose-heavy. For a full set of lugs on a three-quarter-ton, a light tool means you finish without wrecking your wrist.
The kit is generous: two 4.0Ah batteries, a fast charger, six impact sockets in 14, 17, 18, 19, 21 and 22mm, and a tool box. Three speed modes run to 3300 RPM, the brushless motor is rated at 1.66 times the life of a brushed design, and the brake stop in reverse stops fasteners flying off once they are loose.
Owner feedback is the reason this sits at number six rather than lower. Buyers report spinning off lug nuts on older trucks and three-quarter-tons with ease, and one verified owner confirmed it torques to spec when checked afterward with a torque wrench, which is the standard we would hold any of these tools to.
The two cons are worth stating plainly. The included deep-well sockets are too long to fit under a truck in tight spots, so you will end up buying a shorter shallow set. And while there are two-year durability reports on front suspension and shock work, the review base at 903 is not large enough to call long-term longevity settled.
Can the Takuoo handle three-quarter-ton truck lug nuts?
Owner reports say yes, including on older trucks where lugs are more likely to be corroded. The 900 ft-lb claim is one of the more conservative numbers in this group, which means there is less distance between the printed figure and what you would expect to feel.
Verified owners checking the result against a torque wrench found it held spec, which is the point at which we stop worrying about a manufacturer claim and start trusting the tool. That check is standard for any wrench you tighten wheels with, including the premium ones.
Who should skip the Takuoo 900 ft-lb?
Skip it if you work under trucks in confined spaces, since the deep-well sockets included will not clear tight areas. Skip it if you want the reassurance of a very large review base before committing to a wrench you will rely on for dually work.
Do buy it if you want the lightest, most complete kit in this group at the low end of the price range. Two packs, a charger, six sockets and a case is more in the box than most of the list.
7. AOBEN 1500 N.m – A Body Sized Like a Cordless Drill
AOBEN 1500N.m Cordless Impact Wrench, 1/2″ Heavy Duty Impact Gun, 3-Speed 2500RPM Power Torque for Truck & RV Lug Nuts, Rusted Bolts, 4.0Ah Battery & Fast Charger, 6 Sockets & Carry Case
21V brushless
1500 N.m (1100 ft-lbs) max torque
Three speeds to 2500 RPM
Single 4.0Ah pack with fuel gauge
Pros
- Verified owners report loosening lug nuts torqued to 140-150 ft-lbs on the first pull
- Compact body that one owner prefers to a pneumatic wrench
- 4.0Ah battery holds charge well and recharges quickly
- Six socket sizes and a sturdy carrying case included
Cons
- One 4.0Ah battery rather than a two-battery kit limits runtime on extended jobs
- One reviewer describes it as not professional-grade and suited to DIY rather than shop use
- Some buyers question the 1500 N.m figure and report lower real-world torque
What makes this one interesting is its proportions. The body is compact, close to a cordless drill in size, and one verified owner says they prefer it to a pneumatic wrench for that reason. For working under a truck or inside a wheel well, a short tool that still claims 1500 N.m, roughly 1100 ft-lbs, is a good combination.
Verified owners report loosening lug nuts torqued to 140 to 150 ft-lbs on the first pull, which is the real-world figure that matters. The brake-stop function prevents nuts from dropping after loosening, and the 4.0Ah battery has a fuel gauge and reaches full charge in under two hours on the matched fast charger.
The limiting factor is the single battery. One 4.0Ah pack means swapping or recharging partway through a full vehicle, and for someone doing a complete brake and wheel service on a truck that interruption adds up. The kit also includes one battery, so you would need to buy a second one to get the two-pack convenience.
On the torque claim, some buyers question the 1500 N.m figure and report lower real-world output. At 4.6 stars across 832 reviews with 80 percent five-star, the sentiment is broadly positive for a DIY and weekend mechanic tool, and the 140 to 150 ft-lb verified reports back that up for typical wheel work.
Is the AOBEN powerful enough for a truck?
For half-ton and three-quarter-ton trucks running on clean or moderately corroded lugs, the verified 140 to 150 ft-lb reports say yes. The compact body is a genuine advantage in a deep wheel well, and several buyers call that the feature that sold them.
If your truck lives on salted roads and you regularly meet 180 ft-lb or seized hardware, the single-battery configuration becomes a bigger annoyance than the power gap, because you will be swapping packs mid-nut rather than between nuts.
Who should skip the AOBEN 1500 N.m?
Skip it if you do full vehicle services back to back and need two packs in the box. Skip it if you need professional shop durability, since one reviewer explicitly frames it as a DIY tool rather than a shop tool.
Consider it if storage space in your truck or toolbox is tight. A compact body that fits where a drill fits, with a claimed torque figure at the high end of the group, is an unusual and useful combination.
8. JEXUGK 1500 N.m – Locking Mode and Reverse Auto-Stop
JEXUGK Cordless Impact Gun, 1/2″ 1500Nm Impact Wrench with 2×4.0Ah Battery
21V brushless
1500 N.m (1107 ft-lbs) peak breakaway
Locking, forward and reverse modes
2 x 4.0Ah packs, six sockets, extension bar
Pros
- Two 4.0Ah batteries with reinforced nylon cases designed to resist drops
- Locking mode prevents accidental activation during wheel work
- Reverse auto-stops once a nut is loose so fasteners do not fly off
- Six socket sizes including 24mm and 26mm cover truck wheel sizes well
- Five-inch extension bar for recessed wheel nuts and a perpetual warranty
Cons
- Listed weight of 5.74 kg makes it one of the heavier units in the group for a single-hand tool
- Lowest review count among the well-reviewed tools here
- Claimed torque improvements are manufacturer statements without independent verification
The feature that sets this one apart is the locking mode. Most impact wrenches in this list only offer forward and reverse, which means an accidental trigger pull can start driving a lug nut on while you reposition. A locking mode lets you set the tool down, grab a different socket, or knock the truck without fear of it running.
Reverse mode auto-stops once the nut is loose, so a freed lug nut will not rocket off the stud and land in the grass. Between the locking mode and the auto-stop, this is the safety-focused option in the group, and for a truck owner working in a driveway with the wheel already off, that matters.
Socket coverage is genuinely good for trucks. The kit includes six sockets in 17, 19, 21, 22, 24 and 26mm, which spans most pickup and trailer wheel nut sizes, plus a five-inch extension bar for recessed nuts where a deep truck hub means the socket cannot seat fully.
The claim is 1500 N.m, roughly 1107 ft-lbs, of peak breakaway torque from an upgraded brushless motor, and the maker states a 30 percent torque and durability improvement over the previous version. That is a manufacturer statement, not an independent test. At 676 reviews and 4.6 stars with 81 percent five-star, the feedback is positive but the base is the thinnest here.
Is the JEXUGK heavy to use on a full set of lugs?
It is not light. The listed weight is 5.74 kg, which is a lot for a tool you hold one-handed over a wheel for twenty or thirty nuts. The ergonomic handle adds rubber and a movable foot connection for vibration damping, which helps, but it does not change the underlying mass.
If you have back or wrist issues, or you are doing all four corners of a dually in one afternoon, plan on taking a break between wheels. Every tool in this group carries some weight, but this is at the heavier end of what we tested.
Who should skip the JEXUGK 1500 N.m?
Skip it if you want a lightweight tool for repeated wheel work, or if you want a very large body of independent owner feedback, since this has the smallest review base in the group. The safety modes are the reason to consider it, not the weight.
Consider it if you work on a truck with deep-dish or multi-piece wheels where a locking mode and an extension bar genuinely make the job cleaner. The perpetual warranty adds some reassurance for a tool with a thinner track record.
9. TaskStar 1400 N.m – Metric Sockets and a 5-inch Extension Bar
1/2″ Cordless Impact Wrench, 1400N·m(1032ft・lbs) Brushless High Torque Impact Gun, Electric Impact Driver, 2×4.0Ah Batteries, LED Light, Charger, 6 Sockets, 3 Variable Speeds for Car/ Pickup/Mower
21V brushless
1400 N.m (1032 ft-lbs) claimed peak torque
Three speeds to 3300 RPM
2 x 4.0Ah packs, six sockets, extension bar
Pros
- Ranks strongly in Power Impact Wrenches among the value brands in this group
- Two 4.0Ah batteries plus charger plus extension bar plus case and six sockets in one kit
- Three speed settings and brake stop give good control when tightening
- Compact 7.24-inch length helps in tight spaces
- Soft-grip handle reduces vibration on longer sessions
Cons
- Heavy at 4.1 kg
- noticeably weightier than other options at this level
- Torque figure is manufacturer-claimed and not verified by reviewers
- Socket set skews metric so check your truck nut size before buying
The TaskStar is a 21V brushless wrench claiming 1400 N.m, about 1032 ft-lbs, of peak torque. Three adjustable speeds run to 3300 RPM, and the brake stop in reverse prevents nuts and bolts falling off after loosening. The 7.24-inch length is short enough to work in a tight wheel well.
The kit is the reason to consider it. You get two 4.0Ah 21V Max packs with ten cells each, a fast charger with a red and green charge indicator, six impact sockets in 14, 17, 18, 19, 21 and 22mm, a five-inch extension bar for hard-to-reach bolts, a carrying case and a manual. That is more in the box than most tools at this level.
The soft-grip handle reduces vibration and fatigue on longer sessions, which matters more than it sounds when you are removing thirty lugs. Buyers treat it as a capable kit-for-the-money wrench for car, pickup and mower work, and the accessories and speed control are the main draws in the reviews.
Two things to check before you order. The listed weight is 4.1 kg, which is heavy for this price bracket and heavier than several others here. And the socket set skews metric, so if your truck uses a size not in that list, buy your own impact sockets rather than planning around the included ones.
Is the TaskStar 1400 N.m strong enough for truck lug nuts?
The claimed 1032 ft-lb of peak torque sits in the three-quarter-ton tier, which is right for most owners of a half-ton or three-quarter who want headroom. As with the other value brands here, that figure is a manufacturer claim that reviewers have not independently verified.
What you can look at instead is the brake stop and the three speed settings. Those give you control on the tightening side, which is where a truck owner with 140 to 190 ft-lb lug specs needs it most.
Who should skip the TaskStar?
Skip it if you want the lightest wrench you can get for a long day of wheel work, because 4.1 kg will tire you faster than most of this group. Skip it if you need SAE deep sockets beyond the sizes included.
Consider it if you want a complete kit with two packs, an extension bar and a case at a mid-level cost, and you are willing to supply your own truck-size sockets.
10. RYOBI 18V HP PBLIW01B – Tool Only for Existing 18V Owners
ONEAND HP 18V BRUSHLESS Cordless 4-Mode 1/2 in. HIGH Torque Impact Wrench Tool ONLY
18V brushless
1/2-inch high torque
4-mode drive control including auto mode
Tool only, no battery or charger
Pros
- Owners report breaking Prius lug nuts that previously needed a six-foot breaker bar
- One verified owner removed a spindle nut torqued to 177 ft-lbs in about two seconds
- Rated lighter in the hand than expected for its torque class
- Cross-compatible with the widely deployed Ryobi 18V system including older packs
- 83 percent five-star across 607 reviews with mostly five-star durability reports
Cons
- Tool only and about 5 lb bare or roughly 6.6 lb with a 4Ah battery with the weight centered behind the hand
- Modes 1 and 2 do not work with lower-capacity non-HP batteries
- Can strip threads or snap small bolts if used on a high setting while tightening
If you already own Ryobi 18V packs, this is the cheapest path to a capable truck wrench in this entire list. You are buying a bare tool with four-mode drive control including an auto mode, and you plug in whatever 18V battery you already have. That includes older packs, which is the whole point of the platform.
The torque class surprises people. One verified owner removed a spindle nut torqued to 177 ft-lbs in about two seconds, and other owners report breaking Prius lug nuts that had previously defeated a six-foot breaker bar. Those are the hardest fasteners in the passenger and crossover world, and they are in the same territory as truck lug specs.
Owners also rate it lighter in the hand than expected for its torque class, which is unusual. That is worth weighing against the fact that the bare tool is about 5 pounds and roughly 6.6 pounds with a 4Ah battery, with the weight centered behind the hand. One user with carpal issues found that arrangement aggravating.
Two settings caveats. Modes 1 and 2 do not function with lower-capacity non-HP batteries, so an older standard pack limits what you can do. And because it has plenty of power, using a high setting while tightening can strip threads or snap small bolts. Keep it on a low mode for anything under a lug nut.
Is the RYOBI 18V HP strong enough for a truck lug nut?
For a half-ton with lug torque in the 140 to 175 ft-lb range, the owner reports here say yes and then some. The spindle and Prius nut results suggest real capability in that band, which covers most factory truck tightening specs.
For a three-quarter-ton or dually where lugs routinely sit at 180 ft-lb or higher and may be seized, we would want a tool with more verified removal evidence rather than a single anecdote. It is also worth noting the tool carries no stated torque figure in its listing, so you are buying on reputation and reviews rather than a number.
Who should skip the RYOBI PBLIW01B?
Skip it if you do not own Ryobi 18V packs, because a bare tool plus batteries plus charger can cost more than a complete kit elsewhere on this list. Skip it if you work on a dually or one-ton where seized hardware is routine.
Do buy it if the Ryobi 18V system is already your ecosystem. Cross-compatible access to existing packs makes it the lowest real cost of entry to a truck-capable wrench here.
11. MAGSEN 1200 N.m – Two 4000mAh Packs and a 30-Minute Charger
MAGSEN 1/2″ Cordless Impact Wrench, 900Ft-lbs (1200N.m) Brushless High Torque Impact Gun,3800RPM,3 Variable Speeds,LED Light,2x4000mAh Battery, 5 Sockets,Electric Impact Gun for Car/Mower/Pickup
21V brushless
900 ft-lb (1200 N.m) max torque
Three staged torque and RPM modes
2 x 4000mAh packs, 30-minute charger
Pros
- Delivers enough torque for truck and trailer lug nuts including rusted fasteners
- Reverse brake-stop keeps loosened nuts from flying off the studs
- Two 4000mAh batteries plus a 30-minute charger allow full rotations on one charge
- Three speed modes give control from precision work to hard nuts
- Well balanced and light enough for one-handed use with a bright LED light
Cons
- Included sockets are substandard with several reviewers reporting a deformed 17mm on stubborn lug nuts
- Listed weight of 10 pounds is heavier than some 1/2-inch competitors
- Speed is selected by a bottom switch so changing modes means taking the tool off the nut
The MAGSEN stands out for the power setup rather than the torque number. Two 4000mAh batteries and a charger that refills them in about 30 minutes means you can work a complete vehicle rotation, or a full axle on a dually, without waiting on the charger mid-job. That is a real convenience on a truck where the wheel studs are already loosened and you want to finish.
The three speed settings are staged by both torque and RPM rather than RPM alone: roughly 1800 RPM at 500 N.m, 2800 RPM at 800 N.m, and 3800 RPM at 1200 N.m. Owners routinely report using it on real truck, van, trailer and suspension work and describe the torque as more than adequate for lug nuts and rusted bolts.
The single most repeated negative in the reviews is not the tool, it is the sockets. Several buyers rounded or deformed the included 17mm socket on stubborn lug nuts, and multiple reviewers advise buying a better socket set. Treat anything that ships in the box as a convenience and buy a proper impact-rated set for the job. That warning applies to every value-brand kit in this roundup, but it comes up most often here.
Construction details worth knowing: a tungsten steel anvil and alloy steel hammer head, a double-layer ABS housing, an intelligent protection chip with auto-stop and a 10-second auto shutoff, and a cooling fan. At 4.6 stars across 681 reviews with 79 percent five-star, the feedback is solid.
Is the bottom switch speed selector a real problem?
It is an inconvenience rather than a defect. Because the mode is selected by a switch on the bottom of the body instead of a trigger selector, changing modes means taking the tool off the nut. On a stubborn lug that means re-engaging and re-applying pressure, which slows you down and can slip the socket.
Decide your mode before you start on a wheel, and if a lug resists, drop a gear rather than fighting it. Most owners work around it without difficulty, but if you switch between wheel work and smaller suspension bolts frequently, it is worth knowing about.
Who should skip the MAGSEN 1200 N.m?
Skip it if you want to use the included sockets, because several buyers have watched the 17mm deform on a stubborn nut. Buy a quality impact socket set regardless of which wrench you choose here.
Consider it if you want a full vehicle rotation on one charge and two packs in the box, or if you work on trailers and want the 5-inch extension rod and carry case that come with it. Warranty coverage is one year, which is the shortest in this group.
12. DIYtoolifz 1110 ft-lb – Bare Tool for DeWalt 20V Pack Owners
1/2″ Cordless Impact Wrench 1110 Ft-lbs Compatible with DeWalt 20V Battery
20V compatible bare tool
1110 ft-lb claimed loosening torque
Brushless, 3 forward speeds
Hog ring anvil, 5 lb
Pros
- Very low cost per unit of torque with several buyers saying it performs near tools costing several times more
- Uses existing DeWalt 20V batteries so owners in that ecosystem avoid pack cost
- Brushless motor runs cooler and quieter and holds up over multi-year use
- Progressive trigger feel and auto-stop give good control seating lug nuts
- Long owners report no loss of power after two years
Cons
- Bare tool so battery charger and sockets must be purchased separately
- Several reviewers report it could not break loose shop-torqued lug nuts on the first attempt
- Durability is not comparable to premium brands and the maker says it is not recommended for heavy truck tires
This is the other ecosystem play, and if you have DeWalt 20V packs already, it is the cheapest way onto this list. It is a bare tool with a brushless motor, three forward speeds plus one reverse, auto-stop, 0 to 2300 RPM, a half-inch hog ring anvil and a built-in LED. Four amp-hour packs or higher are recommended.
Owners using DeWalt 20V batteries like the economics: they avoid the cost of a new pack entirely, and several buyers say it performs near tools costing several times more. The progressive trigger feel and auto-stop give good control when seating lug nuts, which matters more than raw output during installation.
Here is the honest limit. Several reviewers report the wrench could not break loose shop-torqued lug nuts on the first attempt, which puts the claimed 1110 ft-lb of loosening torque in doubt. The manufacturer also states it is not recommended for heavy truck tires. On a 4.4-star average across 1,131 reviews with 6 percent one-star, this is the lowest-rated tool in the group for a reason that is specific to the job this article is about.
That does not make it a bad tool. Long owners report no loss of power after two years of regular use, and it is clearly competent for brake jobs, tire rotations and trailer work. But if the reason you are reading this article is seized truck lug nuts, this is the one we would steer you away from.
When does the DIYtoolifz bare tool make sense?
When you already own DeWalt 20V packs and the jobs are brake calipers, control arms, tire rotations and trailer hardware. It is a compact 5-pound brushless tool with a hog ring anvil and a chrome vanadium steel build, and long-term owners do not report power fade.
It does not make sense when the primary job is removing stuck lug nuts from a truck that has been outside through several winters. The first-pull failures reported by buyers are exactly the scenario a truck owner buys an impact wrench to avoid.
Who should skip the DIYtoolifz 1110 ft-lb?
Skip it if you do not own DeWalt 20V batteries, since you will be buying packs, a charger and sockets on top of the tool. Skip it if seized lug nuts are the reason you are shopping.
Consider it as a second, lighter wrench for brake and suspension work alongside a higher-torque tool. At this price, a strong DeWalt platform owner gets a lot of function for the money.
Buying Guide: Nine Things to Check Before You Buy
Buying a truck-capable impact wrench comes down to a handful of numbers and one safety habit. Here is what actually changes the outcome.
1. Match breakaway torque to your truck class
Half-ton trucks generally need 400-650 ft-lb, three-quarter-tons need 800-1000 ft-lb, and dually or one-ton trucks need 1000-1400 ft-lb. Buy the tier that covers your vehicle and skip the rest. Paying for a 1400 ft-lb wrench when your truck takes 400 ft-lb gets you a heavier tool, a shorter runtime per charge and a higher price for capability you will never use.
2. Drive size decides what wheels you can touch
Every tool on this list has a half-inch square drive, and that is the right answer for the lug nuts on all common US pickups and SUVs. Half-inch is easier to find sockets for, works with more impact wrench models, and keeps the tool light enough to hold overhead. Three-quarter-inch drive is the choice for semi truck, trailer and heavy equipment work, where axle nuts are larger and the reaction torque on a half-inch anvil becomes the limiting factor.
That said, buyers frequently ask whether 1/2-inch or 3/8-inch is better. Three-eighth-inch drive exists for confined spaces and small fasteners, and it is a legitimate choice under a dashboard or inside a door panel. For lug nuts it is the wrong tool. There is no half-inch socket in a common three-eighth-inch anvil, and adapters reduce the load the anvil can handle, which is precisely what you cannot afford on a seized nut.
3. Anvil retention decides how fast you change sockets
Three retention styles show up in this roundup. A detent pin uses a spring-loaded ball, which is fast in clean conditions but drops the pin into a wheel well if it fails. A friction ring, sometimes called a pig ring, uses a ring you pull back to release the socket, and it is the standard on professional half-inch tools. A hog ring works the same way with a thicker ring and more holding force. The RYOBI here uses a detent pin; the Milwaukee uses a friction ring; the CRAFTSMAN and the DIYtoolifz use hog rings.
4. Mode control and brake stop protect small hardware
Three or four speed modes let you start on small suspension bolts and finish on a lug nut without changing tools. The DEWALT DCF900P1, Milwaukee 2967-20, RYOBI PBLIW01B and several value tools in this list all offer multi-mode drive control. A brake stop in reverse, where the tool stops the moment a nut breaks free, is worth paying for because it prevents a lug nut from flying off a stud into the grass.
5. Battery platform is a long-term decision
Packs and chargers cost more than most bare tools. If you already own 18V Ryobi packs or 20V MAX DeWalt packs, a bare tool in that platform is by far the cheapest way to a truck-capable wrench, which is exactly why the RYOBI and the DIYtoolifz appear on this list. If you own nothing, a kit with two packs and a charger, like the DEWALT DCF900P1 or the Takuoo, gets you to a working setup faster and spreads the platform cost.
Two more platform details. Capacity matters more than count for lug work, because lug nuts soak up battery, and 4.0Ah or higher is a sensible floor for a half-ton. And a fast charger that refills a pack in 30 minutes or under, as the MAGSEN does, changes how you plan a full-vehicle job.
6. Weight and balance decide whether you finish the job
Listed weights across this group range from about 2 kg for the Takuoo to 11 pounds for the DEWALT kit and 5.74 kg for the JEXUGK. Weight alone does not tell the whole story, since balance matters more than raw mass. A tool whose weight sits centered in your palm feels lighter over thirty lugs than a lighter tool with the mass out at the nose, which is one reason owners describe the RYOBI as lighter than expected despite the 6.6-pound loaded figure.
7. An impact wrench, an impact driver and a torque wrench are three different jobs
This comes up constantly on truck forums and it is worth stating plainly. An impact wrench is for nuts and bolts at high torque with a hog ring or socket anvil. An impact driver is for screws and small fasteners, with a hex collet and no torque settings. A torque wrench applies a known final force, which is the only way to hit a lug nut spec. Owners on the F150 forum are near-universal that you should never finish a lug nut with an impact wrench alone, because studs specified in the 130-160 ft-lb range stretch and rotors warp under overtightening. Our digital torque wrench picks cover the tightening side.
8. Impact-rated sockets are not optional
Every hammer strike sends a sharp torsional pulse through the socket. Thin-wall hand-tool sockets shatter under that load, and the pieces fly. This matters most exactly where you are using this article’s advice: on a seized lug nut, the impact rates are highest and the loads are largest. Buy a set of impact-rated sockets in your truck nut size, and never use an adapter to bridge drive sizes on a high-torque removal.
9. Cordless beats pneumatic for this job, with two exceptions
A pneumatic wrench is unlimited in runtime and works in extreme cold without a battery penalty, and it is still the tool of choice in a busy shop that already has air. For a truck owner doing a seasonal tire change or a roadside repair, cordless wins on setup: no compressor, no hose, and a single tool that works in a driveway or on a shoulder. The exceptions are sustained high-volume shop work and deep winter, where pack capacity falls and a compressor is already running anyway. For tire work on a truck, our truck tire guide covers the rubber side of the job.
What We Would Skip and Why
Not everything with a wrench-shaped case belongs in a truck owner’s garage. A few categories come up in buyer conversations and in forum threads that we would steer you away from for lug nut work specifically.
Compact and subcompact impacts are the clearest example. The consensus among owners is that M12-class and subcompact impacts should not be relied on for lug nuts, even where a marketing page suggests automotive use. A famous example from a tools forum thread is an impact driver rated at 150 ft-lb that could not remove car lugs torqued to 100 ft-lb. A compact tool that stalls halfway through a nut is worse than a full-size tool that is slightly heavier.
Mid-torque impact drivers at 150 to 250 ft-lb fall into the same trap. They are excellent for control arms and brackets, and they are not a lug nut tool. Buying one of these and discovering the gap on a salted truck is the most common regret described in the owner discussions we read.
Finally, do not skip the torque wrench. It is not an impact wrench job, and it is the cheapest protection you have against a stretched stud or a warped rotor that costs far more than the wrench you saved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of impact wrench do I need for an axle nut?
Use a high torque cordless impact wrench with a half-inch square drive and at least 600 ft-lb of breakaway torque for a half-ton truck axle nut, 800-1000 ft-lb for a three-quarter-ton, and 1000 ft-lb or more for a dually. Choose the nut-busting or breakaway rating rather than the max fastening figure, use impact-rated sockets, and finish the nut with a torque wrench.
What is the recommended breakaway torque for lug nuts?
Recommended breakaway torque runs about 400-650 ft-lb for half-ton trucks, 800-1000 ft-lb for three-quarter-tons, and 1000-1400 ft-lb for dually and one-ton trucks. Factory tightening spec for most pickup lugs sits between 140 and 190 ft-lb, but corroded or heat-seized nuts can require far more than that to break free.
Is 1000 ft-lb of breakaway torque good for a truck?
Yes. 1000 ft-lb of breakaway torque covers most half-ton and three-quarter-ton trucks with plenty of margin over the 140-190 ft-lb factory tightening spec, and it handles road salt corrosion and seized nuts that a 400 ft-lb mid-torque wrench stalls on. Only dually and one-ton owners generally need to go higher.
Is a half-inch or three-eighth-inch impact wrench better for lug nuts?
A half-inch drive is the correct choice for truck lug nuts. Three-eighth-inch drive exists for small fasteners and tight spaces, and there is no half-inch socket that fits a three-eighth-inch anvil without an adapter, and adapters reduce the load the anvil can handle. Three-quarter-inch drive is the step up, for semi truck and trailer axle work.
Are air impact wrenches better than electric ones?
Air impact wrenches have unlimited runtime and perform well in extreme cold, so they stay the choice in busy shops with a compressor already running. Cordless wins for a truck owner doing seasonal tire changes, roadside repairs or any one-off job, because there is no compressor or hose to set up and the tool works in a driveway or on a shoulder.
Which Cordless Impact Wrench Should You Buy for Truck Lug Nuts?
The DEWALT 20V MAX DCF900P1 is our pick for the best cordless impact wrenches for truck lug nuts, because it pairs a 1400 ft-lb claimed breakaway figure with a complete kit, four speed modes and a 4.8-star average across 2,763 reviews. For dually and one-ton owners it is the tool with the most headroom in this group.
If you already own M18 packs, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2967-20 is the better long-term buy: 1000 ft-lb of real nut-bust torque, a 7.6-inch body that reaches into tight wheel wells, and an all-metal drive train. If you need the lightest complete kit, the Takuoo delivers 900 ft-lb with two packs, a charger and six sockets.
And if you already own 18V Ryobi or 20V MAX DeWalt batteries, the bare tools in those platforms will get you to a truck-capable wrench for the least money. Just check the two things we flagged above: a proper set of impact-rated sockets in your truck nut size, and a torque wrench for the final tighten.