News: Faulty Valve Stems Compromise Safety (CR)

[RH77]

According to Consumer Reports, over 30 million tire valve stems manufactured in China, have been distributed to the North American market.


Photo: Newsome Law Firm

The stems fail, allowing pressure to be released and underinflation/blowouts to occur. One rollover fatality has already been blamed for the failure.

How do I know if I have them?

That's the tough part, since the model number is printed on the part of the stem inside the wheel. Only replacement stems are effected, so new vehicle tires apparently do not have the sub-par product.

The recommendation: inspect stems often and ensure proper pressure (it may require removing wheel covers).

The concern: Most of the driving public probably won't perform this inspection.

RH77