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Valve Stem Core Replacement?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Main Forum' started by crellion, Nov 28, 2012.

  1. crellion

    crellion Junior Member

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    Does anyone know how easy is it to replace the Valve Stem Core of a tire? I got a hunch one of my Gen 3 Prius' valve stem core pin is slightly depressed and might be leaking air.

    Is it expensive and do I need to worry about the TPM or is that a separate component?
     
  2. phoenixgreg

    phoenixgreg Senior member

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    It appears to be all in one...here's a diagram:
    TPMS valve sending unit.JPG
     
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  3. crellion

    crellion Junior Member

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    Oh man - that looks expensive...

    Hmm - I wonder if there is anyway to correct the pin depressing? Can I just take a small plier and see if I slightly adjust the central pin to a more center position (which can hopefully prevent the depression)? Has anyone done something like this before?
     
  4. phoenixgreg

    phoenixgreg Senior member

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    Hard to say but I also wonder how much these valve stems/TPMS senders cost. Also, it brings up the issue as to how long the battery life in the sender will last and if the battery itself can be replaced. My diagram doesn't show any way to do that...sorry.
     
  5. Jonny Zero

    Jonny Zero Giggidy

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    Let Toyota warranty it.
     
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  6. crellion

    crellion Junior Member

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    I'm actually surprised that these pin could be damaged like this (could it be a factory-defect)? I mean - normally these valve stem pins are pretty rugged since a lot of people forget to leave the plastic caps on them and drive them around all the time with the pin exposed...
     
  7. Jonny Zero

    Jonny Zero Giggidy

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    I had a Camry that came like that. For whatever reason the one pin had more friction than the rest and did not always reseat well after being depressed.
     
  8. crellion

    crellion Junior Member

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    Even with this TPM all-in-one-module - it is considered a "Schrader Valve" right?
     
  9. Jonny Zero

    Jonny Zero Giggidy

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    Yes. Certain parts can be replaced. Discount Tire usually rebuild them when you buy tires.
    The kit is like $5.
    TPMS Rebuild Kits
     
  10. Avi's Advanced Automotive

    Avi's Advanced Automotive Independent hybrid repair shop

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    They are very easy to change. Your local auto parts store should have replacements as well as the tool to remove and replace them.
     
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  11. mad-dog-one

    mad-dog-one Prius Enthusiast

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    In addition to the cost of the TPS, there is an additional charge to have your car programed to recognize the new TPS. If you're still under warranty, it might be best to give this problem to Toyota.
     
  12. phoenixgreg

    phoenixgreg Senior member

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    So it looks like most of the TPMS sender can be salvaged? I checked your link for the rebuild kit but could not see the battery (unless it's that tiny cylinder inside the stem). Good to know though for older G3s going out of warranty.
     
  13. Avi's Advanced Automotive

    Avi's Advanced Automotive Independent hybrid repair shop

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    The battery is not replaceable, however, I haven't seen one die yet. Usually a flat tire takes them out.
     
  14. Jonny Zero

    Jonny Zero Giggidy

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    Batteries are NOT designed to be replaced. They are encased in pot metal. That said, I have seen someone on the Corvette forum hacking it to replace the battery and reseal the case with silicone. It is a dirty job and the guy said 1/5 TPMS gets ruined in the process.
     
  15. phoenixgreg

    phoenixgreg Senior member

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    I was afraid of that...I wonder what the expected life of a TPMS sender battery is and how much each is to replace? There's also a recoding process as each one has a unique transmission ID - add that to the cost.
     
  16. Avi's Advanced Automotive

    Avi's Advanced Automotive Independent hybrid repair shop

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    Prii got them in 2006, I see many of those going strong. The replacement cost depends on where you go. I know I replace them for much less then the dealers around me are charging, maybe even half.
     
  17. xs650

    xs650 Senior Member

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    Bingo. But if the valve stem is aluminum be sure to use a valve stem core that is made to work in an aluminum stem or there will be corrosion.
     
  18. Jonny Zero

    Jonny Zero Giggidy

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    Yea the problem is you have to reprogram the ECU with the new IDs with TechStream. That's might be a dealer deal, unless you use aftermarket TPMS that can clone the original IDs.
     
  19. xs650

    xs650 Senior Member

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    I know someone with a 10 year old GM product that is still on the original TPMS batteries. That's on the long side for battery life but 6 or 7 years seems to be pretty common.
     
  20. RobH

    RobH Senior Member

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    The little part with the pin and spring can be unscrewed with one of the valve caps that has the slot in it. Just buy a set of valve stems ($5?) and a set of the caps. Let all of the air out of the tire by pressing the pin, unscrew the old stem using the new cap, screw in a new stem, and reinflate the tire. The TPMS unit should be fine.
     
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