rrcaniglia - I did a little more research after alicecooper's post about using a metal cap on the aluminum valve stems. Apparently, even an aluminum cap on an aluminum valve can cause problems. I found an Acura recall notice, where they mailed owners with the TPMS aluminum valve stems replacement caps made of plastic, and told them to discard their original aluminum caps. Apparently some caps and stems were corroding to the point that the cap couldn't be removed without damaging the stem. Acura attributed the corrosion to the salt used on roads in Winter. I'm going to follow alicecooper's advice and use the original caps for now.

 

Some people in our local MINI club even had problems w/ the fancy MINI replacement caps because the metal they were using fused with the TPMS stems. Thankfully the dealership was able to be convinced to replace the fused stems under warranty (since it was an OEM part, and none of the parts people mentioned a problem). Rumor has it that they've got revised versions out that should play nice, but I'd be careful when buying any to make sure you're not getting old stock.

 

I bought the ones with the MINI logo for $15 bucks from the dealership. I love them because they give that extra little touch. I'd post a picture, but my wheels are dirty.

 

Modnar - not sure what could be done to redesign the decorative caps, unless MINI has changed the caps to plastic, or lined the inside threads with a non-metallic material. It seems this TPMS / aluminum valve stem corrosion issue has caught a few auto makers. Since TPMS systems are now mandated for all passenger cars, I think we haven't heard the last of fused or corroded aluminum valve stems and caps.

 

Can I have your old mushroom valve stem caps? Had 2 stolen (passenger side) second week I had it.....around here people see metal, they take....

 

I have the checked mini valve stems too! They are just too cute! They go with my checked sideview mirrors! Got them off of ebay!

 

You can get the plastic mini caps in all types of styles that won't fuse on or do damage from outmotoring.com
I got the wings for my wife's mini and the union jack for mine.

 

They are nice ones: http://www.outmotoring.com/mini-coop...alve-caps.html I like the wings, myself.

 

Caps...because they now look good on some kid's bike, who stole them from me.

 

you need to white grease them or they will get stuck had that on a crossfire, not a good idea:(

 

not a huge deal. when you wash the car turn the cap. Will be fine.