Worried about your valve stem or tire? We can check it out for you.
HOW DOES A VALVE STEM WORK?
It’s helpful to understand the parts of a tire valve stem. It is made up of a body, core and a cap. The valve core is the inner sealing portion of the valve stem that prevents air loss. The valve core should be tightened into the valve body for a proper seal.
The valve cap’s main function is to keep dirt and debris from getting inside and contaminating or corroding the valve core. If moisture gets inside the valve and freezes, it can cause air loss and/or a flat tire. Of course, it also helps to prevent air loss using the rubber seal inside the cap.
The rubber components of a tire valve stem can dry out and crack over time, causing air leaks or total air loss. We recommend replacing your valve stem every time you replace your tires, at least.
TYPES OF VALVE STEMS
There are a number of different types of valve stems and each has a unique purpose. Below you'll find a list of the most common and popular types. We don’t carry every style or type listed but it is still very important that you use the correct one to match your wheel/rim so as to support your vehicle and tire’s requirements.
Rubber Valve Stem
These valve stems can be operated at air pressures of 65psi or below and are typically used on most passenger vehicles.
Chrome-Sleeve Rubber Valve Stem
These valve stems can also be operated at air pressures of 65psi or below and are very similar to standard rubber valve stems, but they have a chrome sleeve over the valve portion for enhanced appearance in addition to a chrome valve cap.
High-Pressure Valve Stem
These valve stems are used on light trucks and trailers when the air pressure requirements exceed 65psi.
High-Performance Metal Valve Stem
These valve stems are recommended for high-performance purposes. Because a rubber grommet is used to seal the metal performance valve to the wheel, they will still require replacement over time.
They are attached to the wheel with a nut and rubber grommet. The nut can loosen over time and must be tightened periodically to prevent air loss.
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)
Most vehicles after the year 2007 come equipped with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS), which monitor your tire air pressure. While most TPMS sensors also use valve stems to add/remove air, the valve stem portion of the TPMS sensor is different from a standard valve stem.
America's Tire regularly deals with TPMS as they’re integral to the function of tires and wheels. We also stock TPMS Sensors and Rebuild Kits.
If you think you need a new valve stem or tire pressure monitoring system, stop by any of our America's Tire locations or give us a call. We'll get you taken care of! Save time in-store when you buy and book online!
