Tire Valve not working properly?

CARJUNKIE021

MEMBER
2011 NISSAN ALTIMA
136,000 MILES

I was putting air in my tires and only one tire (front driver side) would not take in air. I tried using two different portable air compressors that screws on, but they won't connect securely. I tried the air pump at the gas station and the air still wouldn't take. Finally, I used a portable air compressor with an attachment like a bike pump and the air went it. When I went to put the cap back on I could hear air coming out when the cap was screwed all the way on. When I left the cap off I didn't hear any more air coming out. How do I resolve this problem? Thank you.

Saturday, August 6th, 2022 AT 7:54 AM

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,052 POSTS

Hi,

If I had to guess, I would say the valve core is bad. Inside the valve stem where you attach the compressor is a core or valve that needs depressed for air to exit or enter. Since all the other tires took air, then I know the connector you used was fine.

I attached two pics below. To give you a better understanding, pic 1 shows a valve stem and valve cores. I circled a core and pointed where it goes.

Pic 2 shows the type of tool that is used to remove them. The cut-out on the tool fits the top of the core. The core simply screws in and out.

To replace it, remove the one in the valve stem and simply screw in a new one. You can get kits at places like Walmart or Amazon. Just remember, when you remove the one in the valve stem, the air will leak from the tire very quickly, so make sure you are near a compressor.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

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Saturday, August 6th, 2022 AT 8:40 PM

CARJUNKIE021

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thank you for replying. Unfortunately I had to replace the censor because of corrosion.

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Monday, August 8th, 2022 AT 8:11 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,052 POSTS

Hi,

You are very welcome. In the future, just be aware the valve stem itself can be replaced. They now make them for the tire pressure sensor, and they are much cheaper.

I attached a pic below showing what I'm referring to. Basically, the sensor is removed from the wheel, the screw holding it to the valve stem is removed and then this is placed in its place. The price of the one in the pic is $1.99. LOL

Oftentimes shops won't offer this because they make more money the other way.

Regardless, take care, and please feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Take care,

Joe

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