TPMS valve stem question

[HankLloydRight]

I took my car through a hand car wash but it has a metal guide track.

I didn't remove my FOBO sensors and the track broke off both valve stems and of course lost all pressure.

I got the car to a tire shop, but I'm wondering if they can replace just the valve stem or if the entire TPMS unit now needs replacement. My VIN is 15xxx so it's the early version.

I've taken the car to this wash before without any problems, just this time I guess I was too close to the left track rail. Lesson learned.

 

[Cowby]

i believe it's all connected now, so u'd have to replace the sensor itself....meh, $50 plus labor...not too bad compared to all the other expensive things we do to the car.....btw, I think I got one referral from the ev website! thanks Hank!

 

[brantse]

Not sure about the specifics for these TPMS sensors, but I believe most have rebuild kits available.

Exampl - http://www.discounttire.com/dtcs/brochure/general/tpmsRebuildKit.jsp

 

[HankLloydRight]

Yeah, it all worked out. The tire shop was able to replace just the stems and get me back on the road for a whopping $36!

And better yet, the car wash was free and they paid for the repair. Now that's customer service.

 

[JPP]

...and that's why I never go through a tunnel wash with the tracks & rollers...even if it is a hand wash. My local detailer has an 'off line' system where they power rinse and hand wash outside of the tunnel.