Hi, I just ordered a new set of tires for the car, and when I went down an checked, it looked like they were metal (they have kind of a bolt pattern around them, and were really solid)... so I ordered new tires with metal valve stems.

However, now I'm having second thoughts, did I do right? Does it matter really? And if it does, how do I know if I've got metal or rubber stems?

 

USA spec MINI's following August 2007 have Federal Mandate Tire Pressure Monitor System.

This is attached to special metal 'valve stems' which also serve as antenna and should have plastic caps.

 

Try biting it. If it hurts, it's metal.

 

If you look at your wheel where the valve stem is it should have a round metal disc as a cap. This is the newer TPMS. If you change wheels you will need to remove these and put in your new wheels. My FEB 07 build has a TPMS with the rubber valve, on this model the TPMS is actually a circumference measurement in the brake, it monitors the speed of rotation which will deduce pressure differences.

 

Good one.

 

You can't be talking about the valve cap. You're saying the TPMS is a disc of some sort under the rim (on the inside) at the base of the valve stem?

My valve stem caps were disc-shaped plastic. One is now missing and replaced by the local tire shop with a small bullet-shaped metal cap. I've had no issues with the tire pressure warning system giving me alarms.

 

the actual sensor is inside of the wheel yes. Your metal valve stem is what your "disc" screw onto
Here is a link to the TPMS that Tirerack sells http://www.tirerack.com/accessories/...toring+Systems

 

Well, I ordered the car at the end of August so... I'm guessing metal?

 

I'll get right on it.

 

Try looking at the valve stem.
If it's metal, you have a metal valve stem.
If it's rubber, you have a rubber valve stem.

 

Is there any difference in taste?

 

 

Yep, there is no mistaking a black rubber stem.

However, I don't think you need new stems when replacing the tire (just reuse the old stems). You probably won't even be able to use the new stems you ordered -- they would have to be compatible with the BMW TPMS sensors.

 

If the Mini TPMS are anything like Dodge, you will need an install kit. On my Magnum there is a rubber washer and metal crush washer that will distort when installed. You cannot reuse these. Dodge has a kit with the replaceable parts for TPMS reuse.