What is the replacement cycle for tire valve stems?
2 Answers
Rubber tire valve stems generally need to be replaced every three to five years, but the actual replacement should be based on their condition. Under normal circumstances, valve stems do not need to be replaced as long as they are not aged or leaking. Metal valve stems, on the other hand, have a replacement cycle two to three times longer than rubber ones, primarily because metal is less prone to oxidation and offers better air tightness. Types of valve stems: Rubber valve stems, made of common materials, are widely installed on original wheel rims; Steel valve stems, introduced to address the aging issue of rubber valve stems, are one of the metal alternatives available in the market; Aluminum alloy valve stems, which have a service life and air tightness comparable to steel valve stems. Method for replacing valve stems on tubeless tires: Insert the valve stem from inside the rim, with the small end passing through. Use pliers to pull it, as there is a circular groove at the back, allowing the base to lock onto the rim's circle. To install the valve stem, it is not always necessary to remove the tire. You can deflate the tire, press it down to expose the valve stem base, cut off the old base, pull out the valve stem, and then replace it.
Having driven for decades, I've learned that the humble tire valve stem is a component that truly can't be overlooked. Experience tells me it's best to replace it every time you change tires, as rubber materials tend to age and crack over time, especially under extreme weather conditions. In northern winters, the cold accelerates brittleness, while summer heat causes expansion and air leaks. My car once had recurring slow leak issues, which were eventually traced back to a damaged valve stem. While there's no strict replacement schedule, I recommend inspecting it every 5 years or simply replacing it during tire changes. Daily maintenance tips: Use a flashlight to check for obvious cracks or deformations when inflating; if anything looks abnormal, don't delay - a new one costs just a few dozen yuan. Safety comes first - unstable tire pressure on highways is extremely dangerous, and these simple preventive measures are highly effective.
