Over time, tiny amounts of tire sealant particles, dust, or moisture can migrate into the moving surfaces of the valve. When that happens, two things can occur:
• The internal sliding components no longer move as freely, which makes the connection feel stiffer and reduces the audible and tactile “clik”.
• In rare cases, the valve may not fully close immediately after pump head removal.
Recommended Clik Valve maintenance
Step 1: Lubrication (first and usually sufficient)
Clik Valves require very little maintenance, but a small amount of light lubrication restores performance immediately in the vast majority of cases that don't involve major sealant clogs.
What to use
- One small drop of standard bike chain lube or light mineral oil
- Avoid thick grease or sticky oils
How to apply
- Place one small drop of lubricant directly onto the top of the valve
- Attach your pump head
- Inflate briefly to draw the lubricant through the internal mechanism
No disassembly required.
This re-coats the internal sliding surfaces and seals, restoring smooth engagement and positive closure.
How often
- Once or twice per season for most riders
- More often if you run tubeless sealant, ride in dusty conditions, or wash bikes frequently
Step 2: Sealant removal (only if lubrication does not resolve the issue)
If lubrication does not fully restore the “clik” or the valve still feels inconsistent, there may be small cured bits of sealant inside the valve.
What you’ll need
- Isopropyl alcohol (IPA)
- Tweezers
- A small container
Procedure
- Remove the valve core
- Soak the valve in IPA for approximately 10 minutes. Open and close the valve plunger so IPA can reach the internal surfaces
- Inspect the valve opening from both ends
- Use tweezers to gently remove any softened or loosened pieces of sealant
- Allow the valve to dry completely
- Reinstall the core and apply one small drop of lubricant as described above and follow by connecting the clik pump head or adapter and pumping some air through.
This process dissolves residue and allows any solid particles to be safely removed without damaging the valve.
