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Difficulty removing tire valve caps

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by eidling, Jan 23, 2014.

  1. eidling

    eidling Junior Member

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    I live in the Northeast and we are having extremely cold weather. Yesterday my low air pressure icon came on. When I went to check the air pressure, I could not remove any of the caps.

    My thought was to try some silicone spray or something like that, but, given the fact these things are connected to sensors, I thought I'd ask for advice here first.

    thanks.
     
    #1 eidling, Jan 23, 2014
  2. vskid3

    vskid3 Active Member

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    Try using some pliers to get a better grip/leverage?

    Checking the air monthly regardless of whether or not the light is on should keep them from getting stuck.
     
    #2 vskid3, Jan 23, 2014
    The Electric Me likes this.
  3. The Electric Me

    The Electric Me Go Speed Go!

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    I'd simply try some warm water first. Might not work, but most harmless approach first.
     
    #3 The Electric Me, Jan 23, 2014
  4. fuzzy1

    fuzzy1 Senior Member

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    Cheap 10mm nutdriver for mine, after the dealership put on fancy Nitrogen-logo caps that I couldn't easily remove even in warm dry weather.

    The standard caps probably need a smaller socket.
     
    #4 fuzzy1, Jan 23, 2014
  5. eidling

    eidling Junior Member

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    Okay - thanks to all who have responded so far. I was concerned about possibly damaging them (assuming they are plastic), but one or more of these ideas may work.
     
    #5 eidling, Jan 23, 2014
  6. Robert Holt

    Robert Holt Senior Member

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    I had same problem as the OEM valve stem caps are kind of recessed below the surface area of the hubcaps on our 2012. I found some metal replacement caps at an auto or bicycle parts store that have valve stem core remover slots cut into their tops, which stick out an extra 1/8 inch or so, and I installed those. I have had no problems getting those off with bare fingers and could use a dime in the slot to help twist them off if necessary.
     
    #6 Robert Holt, Jan 30, 2014
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