Categories: Tips & Tricks

How to loosen a tight tire air valve cap 

If you have needed to inflate your tires but have had trouble getting the air valve cap off, you have probably been pretty frustrated. Sometimes, these caps can really, really get stuck and it can seem impossible to get them off without some kind of tool. Check out our guide to loosening those tight air valve caps below. 

You might also be interested in: Where to find your car’s VIN 

Steps to loosening your car’s air valve caps 

What you will need: 

Spray lubricant (WD-40) 

2 snub-nosed pliers 

  1. Rotate your wheel/tire so the cap is upside down from your point of view. 
  2. Spray a small amount of lubricant onto the valve. 
  3. Tightly grasp the base of the valve stem with pliers. 
  4. Grasp the cap with your other set of pliers and twist until it becomes free. 
  5. Replace cap after filling tire with proper amount of air. 

It’s that simple. This process shouldn’t take longer than a few minutes, but if you still have trouble getting the cap off, try using more WD-40 and let it sit for a little bit before twisting again. Your tires require a lot of care. You should check your PSI levels regularly and get your tires rotated once every 5,000 miles or so. Come to Auction Direct USA to learn more about our services and how you can better care for your tires. We hope this simple guide saves you some frustration when you have to fill your tires with air. 

Contact us with any automotive services questions you have 

Share

Recent Posts

Why Should Small Business Owners Opt for a Used Car?

Best Used Cars for Small Business Owners in Raleigh, NC   “You bought a what…

April 23, 2025

Best Used Cars for College Students in Raleigh, NC: Affordable, Safe, and Reliable Picks 

Used Cars for Students in Raleigh, NC  “Mom, I just need something that won’t break…

April 16, 2025

Best Used Pickup Trucks for Work and Adventure 

Best Used Trucks for Sale in Raleigh, NC   "Hey, did you see the latest…

April 11, 2025

What Is the 20/4/10 Rule for Buying a Used Car? A Smart Budgeting Guide

What Is the 20/4/10 Rule for Car Buying?   “Okay, I’m ready to buy a…

April 9, 2025

5-Year-Old vs. 10-Year-Old Used Cars: Which Should You Buy? 

Should I Buy a 5-Year-Old or 10-Year-Old Car?  So, you're in the market for a…

April 4, 2025

How to Improve Gas Mileage and Save Money on Fuel 

Best Ways to Improve Gas Mileage   Tired of watching gas prices climb while your tank…

April 2, 2025