unfortunately I dont believe the batteries can be changed... they just replace the sensor.... the batteries will eventurall go on all the sensors....Schrader makes a new EZ sensor that any tire shop can program by reading your existing sensor and programing the new one... I was just talking to an Americas/Discount Tires guy about this yesterday... if your sensor is dead that might not work so well....

metal valve caps wont affect the operation... mine came with metal caps and I have new, purty aluminum ones on it now....