This is a nice improvement over the OEM sensor as the valve stem is covered in rubber meant to withstand the elements, especially winter salt in the Northeast. However, I want the stem to be flexible to resist the tearing that caused all of my previous sensors to die. It's still a rigid valve stem. 8/2/2014: The OEM valve stem broke and I installed this sensor. Luckily I had it in my glove box. It took a good 30 minutes of driving before the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country picked up the signal, started showing pressure on the dash and the warning light went out.