CRAFTSMAN Fully Automatic 4-in1 Automotive Battery Charger - Reliable

In this review the CRAFTSMAN CMXCESM162 is presented as a practical, no-nonsense solution for motorists and DIYers who want a single tool to charge, maintain, desulfate, and test vehicle batteries. The bottom line: this 4-in-1 unit is best for garage owners with varied battery types because it automates charging and monitoring while offering a focused battery restoration mode to revive weakened cells. It is not a lightweight toy but a functional workshop device that balances power, safety features, and an easy-to-read display for everyday use.

Key Features

• 4-in-1 functionality: Combines a battery charger, maintainer, desulfator, and tester so users do not need separate tools for routine battery care.
• Wide battery compatibility: Works with 6V and 12V lead-acid, AGM, lithium LiFePO4, and deep-cycle batteries to cover cars, SUVs, trucks, and boats.
• Automatic operation: Auto voltage detection and automatic stop-to-maintain behavior remove guesswork and reduce the risk of overcharging.
• Smart charging: A microprocessor manages multi-stage charging for faster, efficient charging while protecting battery health.
• Battery restoration mode: Advanced desulfation can recover underperforming batteries, extending usable life and improving starting reliability.
• Clear status display: Bright digital readout shows voltage and charge percentage, making it easy to confirm progress at a glance.

Who It's For

The CMXCESM162 is aimed at homeowners and hobby mechanics who maintain multiple vehicle types and want one dependable device to handle charging, maintenance, and basic diagnostics. It is ideal for seasonal vehicle owners and boaters who need float-mode monitoring to keep batteries healthy during storage.

Shoppers who need a featherweight, pocketable charger or a jump starter with very high cranking amps should look elsewhere; this model is built as a bench or garage tool with substance and a modest footprint rather than mobility as its chief feature.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comprehensive 4-in-1 capability replaces multiple tools and simplifies battery care.
• Automatic detection and multi-stage charging help prevent overcharge and support battery longevity.
• Desulfation and maintain modes revive weak batteries and keep stored vehicles ready.
• Clear digital display and reverse hook-up protection make it safe and user-friendly.

Cons

• Some users report mixed impressions of build quality, so it may not feel as rugged as professional-only gear.
• At 15 amps max for 12V, users needing very rapid high-capacity charging for heavy commercial use may prefer a higher-output unit.

Specifications

Product type	4-in-1 Battery Charger, Maintainer, Desulfator, Tester
Model	CMXCESM162
Output current	15 A (12V), 3 A (6V), 2 A maintain
Battery voltages	6 V and 12 V
Compatible battery types	Standard lead-acid, AGM, lithium LiFePO4, deep-cycle
Digital display	Voltage and charge percentage readout
Safety features	Reverse hook-up protection, automatic stop and float-mode monitoring

Our Verdict

The CRAFTSMAN CMXCESM162 is a practical, good-value garage charger for owners who need an all-in-one maintenance tool that handles multiple battery chemistries and storage needs. Its automatic operation, desulfation mode, and clear display make it especially useful for seasonal vehicles and DIY maintenance, while those after a lightweight travel charger or industrial rapid charger should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this charger be left connected for long-term storage?
Yes, the unit switches to float-mode maintain and delivers a small current as needed to keep a battery fully charged during storage.

Does it work with lithium batteries?
Yes, it supports lithium LiFePO4 batteries in addition to standard, AGM, and deep-cycle types.

Will it fix a dead battery?
The desulfation/restore mode can revive some weakened batteries and improve performance, but severely damaged cells may still need replacement.