Use Correct Labor Code for Tire Valve Stem Repairs

April 19, 2024

A damaged valve stem is a common cause of a tire leak. The valve stem may have been damaged by normal wear and tear from road conditions or impacts or from improper valve stem installation where the stem isn’t full seated into the wheel.

If there is damage to a tire valve stem (Fig. 2) that requires valve stem replacement, also inspect the Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) sensor for damage if the vehicle was driven on an underinflated or deflated tire and check the sensor porthole for any debris.

Fig. 2

Labor Codes

When the tire valve stem is replaced, be sure to use the correct labor code — 8060680 Tire Valve Stem Replacement.

Do not use labor code 8050190 Tire Pressure Indicator Sensor Replacement for leaks at the tire valve stem or for unseated valve stem repairs. Labor code 8050190 Tire Pressure Indicator Sensor Replacement should be used only for replacing the TPM sensor.

Tire Repairs

Keep in mind the following tips when performing tire repairs.

When removing the tire valve stem, if the stem will not pull through the rim, cut the inner seal off the stem and then pull the stem through the rim using a valve stem removal tool.
When installing the tire valve stem, ensure the tire valve stem installation tool (Fig. 3, #2) is fully engaged with the stem threads. Pull the valve stem (Fig. 3, #1) through in a parallel direction to the valve hole on the wheel to help ensure proper seating.
The valve stem should be fully seated on the rim. The rim hole edge has to be completely in the notch of the valve stem. The valve stem and the rim holes must be concentric.
If a GM-approved tire sealant was used in the tire, remove the sealant residue from the TPM sensor using mild dish soap, clean water and shop cloths. If it cannot be confirmed that the tire sealant was a GM approved product, replace the TPM sensor.
Use care not to scratch or damage the clear coating on aluminum wheels with any tire changing equipment. Scratching the clear coating may cause the aluminum wheel to corrode or the clear coating to peel from the wheel.