Bump topic.


Just looking up TPMS information and came across a Popular Mechanics article warning about the possibility of metal valve caps interfering with the transmissions from the sensors.

 

I've been using the chrome plastic w/logo for years without issue.

 

All this drama over a valve cap.

Too bad people didn't bother checking tire pressures manually. So now you have TPMS to do it for you.

A cap that is removed every few months isn't going to seize onto the stem. But with TPMS, it doesn't get removed.

They should have just let the self inflicted Darwin awards continue. Problem solved.

What you need to know about TPMS

http://www.tirebusiness.com/article/...tpms-migraines

 

Like many government actions designed to show government is doing something, even if not achieving anything, TPMS rules were not well thought out and are worse than useless. If serious damage can occur at 7% underinflation what possible use can TPMS be? The system is set to provide a warning only at 25% underinflation.

The reference to metal caps is clearly restricted to TPMS that come that way from the factory. Jaguar specifies use of plastic valve caps and only plastic.

 

Clearly.

Read the bit about galvanic corrosion though.

At least owners of older models don't have to deal with this nonsense. A nice tire pressure gauge and life is good.

 

Someone needs to come up with a way to deactivate the system and then just install plain valve stems.

 

US government says no to any disabling. I doubt anyone in the business can do this legally. What's needed is a change to the legislation to make such systems optional. Good ruck Charlie on that one. The history of US auto safety is one way towards more regulation. The only progress I've seen is in permitting better headlights and reducing the cost of the front bumper rules.