Removing a Presta Valve Core

Learn how to remove a Presta valve core with our step-by-step guide below.

➡️ Tool needed: Valve core remover

No tools at hand? We’ll also show you how to remove a Presta valve core without any tools further down.

Step 1: Check if your valve core is removable

Look closely at the tip of the valve:

If you see two small flat edges, then yes, the core can be unscrewed.
If not, it’s a fixed core and cannot be removed.

Step 2: Deflate your tyre completely

Unscrew the small valve pin and press down on the tip to release all the air.

Step 3: Unscrew the valve core

Fit the wider slot of the Presta valve core remover onto the valve.
Turn it anti-clockwise.
Once fully unscrewed, gently pull it out.

🔄 To reinsert the valve core:
Place the core back into the valve and tighten it carefully using the valve core remover. Avoid over-tightening.

How to remove a Presta valve core without tools

With a bit of creativity, it’s possible. The goal is to grip the two flat sides of the valve core without damaging the threads, so you can rotate and remove it.

Look around at what you have at home. You might try:

A small needle-nose plier
A very small open-end spanner
Two fine flat-head screwdrivers

Why remove a Presta valve core?

To increase airflow, which is especially useful when inflating a tubeless tyre and helping the tyre beads seat properly on the rim.
To fix a slow puncture caused by a faulty valve core, without replacing the inner tube.
To insert sealant into a tubeless tyre through the valve.

➡️ Need to remove a Schrader valve core instead? Click here