Valve stems seem like such an insignificant part of a vehicle, most people never give them a thought. Flat tires and blowouts on the other hand, get attention very quickly. Unfortunately the two may go hand in hand.
AGCO has always taken the details very seriously. Years ago we tested different brands of valve stems and quickly learned there was a huge difference. A lower price does NOT equal a lower cost. We know buying quality will always cost less, over time. This is why AGCO buys and installs the best parts available on your vehicle. This is not so of every auto repair shop.
Dill, a large tire stem distributor, imports stems made by a company in Shanghai, China. Stems sold in the U.S. from November 2006 through July 2007 were substandard. They did not meet the ozone resistance levels rubber needs to resist cracking. Failure of the stems has already been blamed for at least one fatal accident.
If you purchased tires after November 2006, ask the tire dealer what brand of stems they use. It’s always been good idea to inspect valve stems whenever air pressure is checked. Now it is even more important than ever. An easy way to inspect the stem is to simply push it sideways and check for cracks.
If any stem shows signs of cracking, all four should be replaced.
Substandard valve stems are very dangerous. Like any substandard part the actual cost far exceeds any potential savings. AGCO, do it right, do it once, the cost is always less.
