I got to thinking about what the guy told me about dropping the TPMSs down into the tire before removing the tire from the rim, which I found out was a common procedure, and have then to replace the rubber o ring to keep them from leaking.

Decided to go out an take a better look at mine and there doesn't seem to be any way they can do that as the TPMSs are in a recessed hole on my Chrome-Tech wheels and there is no visible retaining nut that I can see.

Has anybody had any experience with this?

There is a charge of $10 per wheel for replacing the o ring, kind of high in my estimation, but if they can't drop it before breaking the tire down there should be no reason for doing it afterward.

Going to confront the tire tech with this and see what he says.

 

Found out they still use the old snap-in type valve stem instead of the bolt on type.

 

One of the first changes I always make is to get rid of any Firestone's! I usually go with a top of the line Goodyear but have used Cooper, Dunlap & even Dayton with good results.

Just picked up my new car & have the changeover to Goodyear set for late next week. Hope they will be as good as others have been in the past. I know I'm going to like the new American Racing chrome much better than the stock hub caps! I did decide to stick with the 16" based on both dealer & tire store recommendation for a better ride.

 

Just got home from having the Bridgestones installed.

Man what a difference in ride. I thought only Michelins rode extra rough but the Firestones must be right up there.

The Bridgestones sure ride smoother. I changed lanes on the way home and usually when I hit those little markers in the middle the HHR would actually shudder. Now you can feel them but not like before. The road in front of my house is old cement and I could definitely tell the difference.

 

I guessed I never noticed before but the inside top of the tire sure is close to that strut or what ever that is under there. Barely can get my hand between it and the tire.

 

I can't get my hand in there at all......

 

I guess I am alright then.

 

What size did you end up getting?

 

215/50R17 95v 440 AA A

I found a slight blemish on one of my rims but can't say Discount Tire did it or not.

You can catch a fingernail on it and I am afraid it will chip off.

I have the Chrome-Tech GM rims. Priced one on the net and it was $350(ouch)

Going to go over there Monday to see if there is some way to stop it from chipping off.

 

May be able to fill that with some wheel clear coat, or depending on where and what it looks like superglue might work. When used right that's some amazing stuff..... used wrong and it's a nightmare. Good luck!