I had a problem when taking off the air valve cap and it dropping between the wheel cover and the brakes. The space for access to the valve is just too narrow. So I came up with this solution that I show in the video.
Good idea - though why they didn't install longer valve stems in the first place. On 2 of my last 3 cars, when it came time to replace tyres, I said "LONG STEMS please". Made it much easier.
Great idea Jimmy! I guess they assume nobody checks their own tire pressure anymore. Has anyone tried the extenders? I used some similar to this on another vehicle years ago. They worked fine. Once it came time to change tires I asked for longer stems Edit: for the life of me, I can't get a link to post. Argh!!!!! Just search "valve stem extenders" on Amazon or wherever you prefer to shop
Thanks alanclarkeau, I think I will do the same with longer valve stems when I need to replace the tires.
Thanks Bluegrassman on all my past cars I never checked air pressure as often as I do now on the Prius. My next set of tires when I need them will have longer valve stems.
Forward the video to about 2:20 for the fix and demo. Great idea as well. I lost one of mine so I definitely appreciate the video
Great tip. I had the same issue the very first time I inflated the tires at the gas station - I couldn't get the air valve cap out of the narrow space between the plastic cover and the alloy wheel it was stuck into. I had to roll the car forward a bit to get it land on the floor. Ever since, I take extra care when inflating the tires... A better design that does not allow the valve caps to fall into small inaccessible spaces between the plastic inserts and the alloy wheel would be a welcome change.
Only steam valves that will work longer than factory are one with rubber and metal design like some expensive cars have.....
Good Idea Jimmy, I just love these handy tip videos. Can you even get longer TPMS valve stems ? I used to use a piece of rubber fuel tubing to take caps off valves that were awkward to get at. Loosen the cap by hand, stick the tubing on it and screw it off. To put it back, screw the cap on pull off the tube and finish tighten by hand.
I didn't consider TPMS - for some reason, TOYOTA didn't offer it here in Australia, even as an option.
Exactly, these have the built in electronics so how do you put in longer valve stems? I trade cars when the valve stems need replaced. ARGH!
