WHETHER it’s new brake pads or window screens, drivers often have to keep an eye on their vehicles.
Checking your dust caps are an essential part of a car hygiene routine, but many people still don’t know their actual purpose. Here’s why you should use them.
What is a dust cap on a car?
Tyre valves control the airflow in and out of your car tyres, ensuring proper performance.
To protect these valves, dust caps (also known as valve caps) are fitted over their ends.
Although they are a relatively inexpensive car accessory, dust caps play a crucial role in vehicle safety.
They cover the tyre valve, blocking dust, dirt, and debris.
You might also hear them referred to as tyre valve caps or simply tyre caps.
Why should you use dust caps?
There are five main reasons why you should use dust caps.
They are an inexpensive yet essential way to protect the health and hygiene of your tyre valves.
It helps block dust and other particles from entering the valve, protecting it from potential damage.
And did you know that dust caps also help maintain tyre pressure?
If they are faulty, missing, or not fitting correctly, dust can enter the valve, slowly forcing out air and causing a loss of pressure.
By simply buying and fitting dust caps, you can avoid the hassle, time, and cost of repairs caused by dirt entering your valves.
As a result, it keeps you safe on the road because a poorly inflated tyre can cause a blowout.
It also prevents you from spending extra as an underinflated tyre hastens your tyre’s wear rate.
Aesthetics may not matter much to some drivers, but always look for your tyre caps if it’s a major consideration.
Today, most dust caps are made from affordable plastic and easily screw onto the valve’s opening.
However, metal and alloy versions are also available.
Although they are more expensive, they are sturdier than plastic options and tend to come with an integrated seal.
The only downside to metal dust caps is that they can sometimes attract theft.
Fortunately, most valve caps are designed to be one-size-fits-all, so there’s usually no need to search for a specific cap for your vehicle.
However, if you want to be extra certain, consult your car manufacturer or local garage.
As your car travels, vibrations can cause dust caps to loosen or become damaged.
Hence, it’s a good idea to check them regularly to make sure they are still secure.
Is it safe to drive without dust caps?
While driving without an air valve cap is generally safe, it’s advisable to replace it as soon as possible to keep dust and debris out of your tyres.
Without a cap, dirt and moisture can build up on the valve stem, potentially causing damage over time.
Valve caps also play a minor role in preventing air from slowly escaping the tyre and protect the valve from foreign objects.
Thankfully, air valve caps are both inexpensive and easy to replace.
They are readily available at auto parts stores and online retailers, making it simple to keep your tyres in top condition and avoid unnecessary repairs.
However, it’s worth noting that there’s been a spike in anti-theft dust cap sales as eco-warriors have been targeting people’s wheels.
Anti-theft dust caps, also known as valve caps, include a special keyring tool that makes it almost impossible to remove them.
There are many different variations of the anti-theft dust caps, but they all do the same thing.
You can easily pick them up online for around £10 to £15.
