![]() That way, you save yourself the headache of slow tire leaks. We believe it’s a good idea to replace your valve stems every time you get a new set of tires. Otherwise, we recommend replacing your valve stems every time you replace your tires. However, if you see any cracks or punctures, or if the rubber looks really old and dry, then it’s best you replace your valve stems right away. The average rubber tire valve should last about 4 to 5 years. Your tire should be looked at by a professional as soon as you notice a leak. Driving with a slow leaking tire can be dangerous, especially at higher speeds. Just because you can drive with a leaky valve stem, it doesn’t mean that you should. Learn more about what might be causing your leaky tire.Īnd if you are struggling to identify the source of your leak, then it’s best you bring your car in and have a professional take a look at it.Īdditional FAQs Can you drive with a leaky valve stem? If you find that the tire valve stem isn’t the cause of your air loss, then there might be another cause at hand. If bubbles start to appear, then you have a leaky valve. ![]() Then, apply the mixture to the valve with the cap removed. The “soap method” – Try mixing soap and water in a spray bottle and give it a good shake. If you find that one of your tires always seems to be under-inflated, you are probably dealing with a leak. Manual pressure readings – Check your tire pressure manually every week or so. If you inflate all of your tires and the TPMS goes off again after just a few days, it could be an indicator of a slow leak (if your TPMS isn’t faulty!). TPMS (Tire pressure monitoring sensor) – If your TPMS light is on, it's letting you know that one of your tires is under-inflated. Here are a few simple ways you can check for a slow tire leak: However, a damaged valve stem can be difficult to detect, especially if you are dealing with a slow leak. If you see any cracks or punctures, or if the rubber looks really old and dry, then it’s best that you replace it. How do You Know if Your Valve Stem is the Source of Your Tire Leak?Ī good initial test for valve damage is to flex the stem by pulling it to one side. NOTE: A leak could come from either the body of the valve, or the base of the valve, where it meets the tire. In both cases, the valve must be replaced. Road hazards - rubbing against curbs or rocks can break or damage the valve stem.ĭepending on the extent of the damage, the air might leak out slowly or more quickly. Improper wheel cover replacements - the valve stem can get cut by wheel covers if they’re not replaced properly. Losing the valve cap - dirt and debris may get stuck around the valve stem core, which can cause air leakage. Other things that could damage your valve stem include: The valve stem could become corroded, brittle, or cracked due to a combination of moisture, sun damage, heat, road salt, chemicals, and age. New tires normally come with new valve stems because the old ones will wear out over time. If moisture ends up making its way inside the valve and freezes, it can cause air loss and/or a flat tire. The valve cap is used to keep dirt and debris from getting inside and contaminating or corroding the valve core. The valve core should be tightened into the valve body for a proper seal. The valve core is the inner sealing portion of the valve stem that prevents air loss. It plays a critical role in your tire and wheel safety.Ī tire valve stem is made up of a body, core, and cap. ![]() The valve itself is basically a pin that is located on the outside of the tire. One common cause of air loss is actually a damaged tire valve stem, which is used to inflate your tires.Ī damaged valve stem can be difficult to detect, but not taking care of it in time can have real consequences for both your tire and your safety.Ī valve stem is a basic feature of your tire/rim that keeps your tires inflated and allows you to add or remove air as needed. There’s a common misconception that a tire only loses air if it’s punctured.
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