Having Trouble Putting Air in Tire: 4 Causes of Leaked Tire Valve
Having trouble putting air in tire? You’re not alone. Many drivers encounter difficulties when attempting to add air to their tires. The frustration is real, whether it’s a pesky valve, an unavailability of equipment, or simply a lack of know-how.
But fear not. Read on as we’ll provide practical tips and expert advice to make this essential task a breeze. We’ll also dive into the 4 reasons behind the leaked valve and explore the solutions.
So, without any further ado, Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents
What are the Causes Behind Troubles While Filling Air Pressure in Tire?
There are many reasons behind difficulties when filling the air in your tires. Some of these include:
- Disturbance to valves,
- Damage to tire,
- Equipment malfunction,
- Temperature changes,
- Impaired rim.
These troubles can hinder the proper tire inflation process.
In the following sections, we will explain valve-related problems since there are quite common. We will also provide solutions to help you overcome these obstacles.
1. The Tire Valve Isn’t Taking in Air
You may have found yourself in a condition where you cannot fill the tire. This problem may relate to a faulty tire valve. In fact, it is one of the most typical problems, and this situation is quite aggravating.
Below are some scenarios which you can utilize to check the tire’s valve to target air-filling troubles.
Verify the Condition of the Tire Valve
These things can contribute to the issues that can prevent the uptake of air from a valve:
- Cracked valve stems,
- Faulty valve cores,
- Damaged valve caps,
- A hit from debris on the road.
Observe the valve properly to confirm that it’s really behind the inflation problem. A worn-out valve will cause your tire to go flat and even blow out.
To check a valve, follow these steps:
- Give a physical inspection. Look for any cracks, cuts, or signs of wear on the rubber part of the valve stem.
- Use a mixture of soap and water to check for any leakages. Look for bubble formation around the valve stem.
- Ensure that the cap is secure and intact.
- Finally, remove the valve and assess its core for any faults.
Putting in a New Valve Core
If the valve cap is damaged, you can replace it without changing the whole part. However, if the stem or core is faulty, you must replace the entire component.
Follow these steps to replace a valve stem:
- Use a screwdriver or apparatus like ABN Valve Stem Seal Remover to remove an old worn-out valve core from the wheel rim.
- Next, find a newer model and put it in the place of the older one. Twist it in a clockwise direction until it is secured.
- Ensure that the core is securely placed. Don’t tighten it too hard; you may damage it again.
Important note: Always buy valves that are the correct types and sizes for your tire. You can also consult the car’s manual or a professional for help.
2. Valve Leak: A Reason for Flat Tire
Leakage is another reason you can’t fill the compressed air, and it can lead to a flat tire. This issue can lead to more air loss, difficulty maintaining proper pressure, and frequent trips to the gas station.
Here are some common causes of a leaky tire valve:
- A damaged valve stem,
- Air leaking from the valve core,
- Loose cap,
- Faulty installation.
But before you suspect a valve leaky, you must confirm it. The below points explain how you can trace this trouble:
- Find any visible signs that can impart the leakages in the valve.
- Use a mixture of soap and water to check for any leakages. Look for bubble formation around the valve stem.
- Fill the tire and use an air pressure gauge to measure the tire pressure. If the pressure is consistently and rapidly decreasing, it’s a red flag for a leaky valve.
The below sections explain some of the causes of the leakage in the valve and the ways you can treat them.
1. Error with Installation
If you have recently visited a car garage and the vehicle’s tire is not allowing any air, this situation can indicate a faulty installation of the valve.
It is one of the common reasons behind a leaky valve. Sometimes, a person can’t properly install a new valve, or a mechanic might have damaged it unknowingly while replacing the tires.
To tackle this problem, you must unscrew the core, remove the stem, and insert it correctly.
2. Rusty Valves
Another potential reason that may cause issues with the air filling in the tires. Since the inner side of the valve is made of metal, it can rust over time.
These are the causes of valve corrosion:
- Rust or oxidation on the valve stem,
- Corroded cap,
- Moisture entrapment in the valve,
- Improper maintenance.
Corrosion can sometimes form a barrier in the valve, making it difficult to fill the air. To handle a corroded valve, follow these steps:
- Clean the valve stem using a wire brush or abrasive pad to remove rust or corrosion.
- Use lubrication like WD-40 Multi-Use Product on the threads to treat corrosion.
Although you can fill the air in the corroded valve, we recommend replacing and installing a new one.
3. Environment Influence
Here are some climate-related problems you may encounter:
- Extreme temperature fluctuations cause expansion and contraction.
- Exposure to harsh environmental elements, such as UV rays or moisture.
To mitigate these climate-related issues, you can take the following steps:
- Ensure proper tire maintenance, including regular inspections.
- Use valve stem caps to protect it from environmental elements.
- You can use tire covers like Explore Land Tire Covers 4 Pack to minimize exposure to extreme temperatures.
4. Deterioration with Time
As tire valves age, they can deteriorate, leading to many problems. The valve may become stiff, making filling the air through them difficult. Although this problem can hardly be detected on the tire pressure gauge meter, it can be felt while filling the air.
The following could be the causes of age-related deterioration:
- Wear of the valve stem material.
- Weakening of the valve core or cap due to prolonged use.
The following points can help you with these issues:
- Regularly inspect and replace old or worn-out valve stems.
- Substitute the valve core if it shows signs of damage.
- Consider replacing the cap with a new one to ensure a tight seal.
5 Hassle-Free Tips for Checking Your Tire Pressure
Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial, especially when dealing with air filling in tires. The tire pressure is the air inside your tires, measured in pounds per square inch (psi). Depending on the vehicle’s size, it ranges from 30 -42 psi.
As per a study, 42 percent of drivers cannot point out a low air pressure in the tire. If there is not enough tire pressure, it can lead to reduced traction and increased wear and tear.
Here are some tips to help you check your tire pressure effectively:
- Use a reliable tire pressure gauge for accurate readings.
- Check the air pressure when the tires are cold, especially in the morning, before going out.
- Refer to the vehicle’s recommended tire pressure, usually listed on the driverside’s door frame or the user’s manual.
- Adjust the air in the tires as needed to match the recommended pressure.
- Inspect regularly, like every month or when you return after long journeys.
You can also check out this helpful video: How to Check Your Tire Pressure
6 Simple Steps for Adding Air to Your Tire
After checking the pressure, you may need to fill the air in your tires to reach the optimal level. A properly inflated tire can save you gas as well as money.
Though this is a simple process, you must be careful and follow the given steps to avoid damaging your car tires or causing accidents.
- Park your vehicle close to the air dispenser at any of your nearest gas stations. You can also use a portable air compressor or an air pump.
- First, check the pressure with the tire pressure gauges to know the air inside the tire.
- Remove the cap and attach the air hose to the valve.
- Fill the air in short bursts and check the pressure with the gauges.
- Stop filling when you reach the recommended pressure or slightly below/above it.
- Replace the cap and repeat for the other tires.
Pro tip: Ensure the air hose is firmly sealed over the tire to fill the air. If you feel too much air is flowing around the valve stem cap, tighten the connection. Additionally, always carry a spare tire in case you are heading for a long journey to avoid any issues.
For deeper insights, you can check the following video: How to Inflate Car Tires?
How Long Does it Take to Fill a Tire With an Air Compressor?
Using air compressors can significantly speed up filling the air in your tires. An air compressor condenses air and stores it in a tank. You can use this device to fill your tires with air at home or on the road.
A portable air compressor is a good option if you want to have one handy, like AstroAI Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor. But how long does it take to fill a tire with an air compressor? It depends on tire size and desired pressure.
- However, filling a tire takes about 20 to 30 seconds if it’s 5 or 6 psi less than it should.
- A general rule of thumb says it takes around 2 minutes to fill a tire with 10 psi of air using a standard 12-volt air compressor.
Still, you should check your pump air manual for more details.
Simple Tips to Replace and Maintain Your Tire Valve
The valve might be a small part of your car, but this little thing plays a major role in the comfort of your drive. It allows you to fill the air from your tire and prevents dirt from entering it. Proper maintenance of tire valves is crucial for optimal tire performance.
Here are some tips to help you maintain and replace tire valves effectively:
- Regularly inspect the valve stems for signs of damage or corrosion.
- Replace the valve stem if cracked, split, or worn significantly.
- Change the valve every time you buy new tires for your cars.
- When replacing the valve, ensure a proper seal by tightening it securely.
- Use a cap to protect your valve environment.
- Clean the valve area and apply a small amount of lubricant during installation for smooth operation.
What Are the Three Most Occurring Valve Failures?
Valve failure occurs when it completely breaks down. In this condition, the only treatment is to replace the component.
Some common tire valve failures are given below:
- Stem Packaging Failure: Stem packaging prevents air from escaping through the valve stem. If it gets damaged, it will allow the leakage of air and the entry of unwanted fluids.
- Seat Leakage: This part seals the valve when it is closed. If there is an issue with the valve seat due to abrasion or erosion, you may see a decrease in tire pressure.
- Actuator Malfunctions: The actuator opens and closes the valve. If this part has a problem, it can cause the valve to open or close partially, inconsistently, or not at all.
FAQ
Why is my tire not filling with air?
Your tire is not filling with air because its valve is damaged. Plus, a clogged valve stem or a problem with the air dispenser can also lead to an air leak due to this issue.
How do you put air in tired?
To put air in a tire, remove the cap, attach the air hose securely, and add air to the maximum tire pressure in short bursts while monitoring with a tire gauge.
How do I know if my tire valve is bad?
You can tell if your tire valve is bad if you see signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks. Additionally, air leakage can also imply that the valve is bad.
How do you clean a tire valve stem?
Remove the valve cap and the core to clean a tire valve stem. Use a cloth or a brush to wipe off any dirt or debris.
Why is my tire slowly losing air but no hole?
Your tire may slowly lose air due to a leaky valve, a bent rim, a damaged bead seal, or a porous tire.
Conclusion
So, the problems related to tire valves are pretty common since this part often faces a hard environment. Most of the issues arise due to air leaks, improper sealing, difficulty in filling the air, and maintaining proper tire pressure.
Identifying and addressing these challenges is important for optimal tire safety and performance. Regular maintenance, inspection, and timely inspection of valves can prevent valve failures.
Now, we’d love to hear from you: Have you ever encountered any difficulties while filling the compressed air in your vehicle’s four tires? Share your experiences with us.
I`m a current Law Enforcement Officer working within the Counterterrorism Bureau in New York State. I have been Camping for over 20 years. My styles of camping include tent, car, truck, van, and RV travel trailer. I have a YouTube channel where I teach all types of camping with an entertaining method: https://youtube.com/@TheSmallsRVAdventures
