Valve Stem Replacement 101

Is your tire leaking and you can’t figure out why? If you’ve checked for a nail but don’t see one, it may be time to complete a valve stem replacement.

There are no reasons to remove your tire when replacing your valve stem — and the shop doesn’t need to do it either. Let’s take a look at a complete guide for tire valve stem installation and replacement.

Valve Stem Replacement 101

Replacing your valve stem is an easy task to do, even if you aren’t a mechanic. New valve stems cost about $10 dollars to repair if you do it yourself. If you bring it to the shop, it will cost about $30.

Get the Right Tools

Before you start replacing anything, make sure you have the right tools. When you pick up your new valve stem, you’ll also need to get a replacement valve core and valve stem tool.

A valve stem tool looks like a plus sign.

Test the Valve Stem for a Leak

Prior to changing your valve stem, verify that it’s actually leaking first. If you take some water and a blob of dish soap together and rub it over the uncapped valve stem, you can test for a leak.

The valve stem is leaking if there are little bubbles that form at the base of the stem.

If no bubbles form, then your valve stem is likely not the culprit of the leak.

Replace the Stem

Once you’ve verified that the valve stem is leaking, you’ll need to let the air out of the tire after you’ve removed it. You’ll need to unscrew the valve from the tire using the valve stem tool that you purchased earlier.

The valve core will be pressurized if any air is left in the tire, so be sure to remove all the air prior to removing the core. Once you’ve taken out the core, throw it away and you’re ready for the next step.

Clean the Valve Stem

The valve core tool you purchased is needed to clean the inside of the valve stem. Clean the opening in the tire where the valve stem came from, and ensure it’s clean from dirt and debris.

Install a New Valve Stem

Now that you’ve prepared your tire with your new valve stem and it’s clean, grab your valve stem toll. Using the same end of your valve stem tool, install the new valve core. Tighten your new valve, making sure there are no leaks.

When your new valve is on tight, put air back into your tire and add the valve cap back on. Just like that, and you’ve replaced your valve stem on your own!

Replacing Valve Stems on Your Own

As you can see, it requires several simple steps to complete a valve stem replacement on your own. By doing this, you’ll save money and time. From finish to start, it should take less than 10 minutes.

Are you interested in getting more tips about valves? Contact us today!