Where is fuel filler cap

Other caps have locks within them requiring a key to open them. On vehicles from , the emission control system monitors the fuel vapors and illuminates an engine light when there is leakage. If the seal is damaged or if the fuel filler cap does not seal the tank properly, the engine light will be illuminated along with the fuel door light. If this light comes on, check the fuel filler cap and see if it is screwed on properly. Most of the time, the problem may be solved by replacing the defective gasket.

At regular intervals, ensure that you check your vehicle for any signs of fuel filler cap failure like:. If the fuel filler cap fails, the engine management system will record this event. Fuel leakage in a vehicle can be very dangerous. Liquid fuel does not burn, but the vapors given off by the fuel are extremely flammable. If there is a leak at the fuel filler cap, there is an increased risk of the fuel vapors igniting when rocks are thrown up into the wheel well causing a spark.

Having all of the necessary tools and materials prior to starting the work will allow you to get the job done more efficiently. Allen wrench set. Combustible gas detector. Flat tip screwdriver. Needle nose pliers. Torques bit set. Note : When replacing a fuel filler cap, it is recommended that you purchase only original manufactured equipment OEM.

The OEM fuel filler cap is fitted and made for the vehicle. Step 1: Park your vehicle on a flat, hard surface. Make sure that the transmission is in park mode for automatics or in 1st gear for manuals. Step 2: Secure the vehicle. Place wheel chocks around the front tires that will remain on the ground since the rear of the vehicle will be lifted up. Engage the parking brake to prevent the rear tires from moving.

Step 1: Locate the fuel filler cap. Open the fuel door to gain access to the fuel filler cap. Step 2: Check the fuel filler cap. Look at the fuel filler cap for any exterior damage. Remove the fuel filler cap from the fuel filler neck and remove the cable from the fuel door.

Step 3: Check the gasket. Remove the gasket that is on the bottom of the fuel filler cap. Check the gasket for any cracks or distortion. Step 4: Check the fuel filler neck for any damage. If you notice any damage, the fuel filler neck may be failing.

Step 5: Clean the fuel filler neck threads. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to clean the threads on the fuel filler neck. Step 1: Install the new gasket onto the new fuel filler cap. Screw the new fuel filler cap onto the fuel filler neck. Ensure that the threads lock fully onto the fuel filler neck. Step 2: Hook up the cable to the fuel door. Use the combustible gas detector and verify that there are no fuel vapors leaking from the fuel filler cap.

Step 3: Drive the vehicle. During the test drive, go over different terrain like bumps to allow the fuel to slosh around inside the fuel tank. This will cause the fuel to bubble up and create mass amounts of vapor. Step 4: Check for warning lights. Monitor the dash for the engine light to appear. If the engine light comes on even after replacing the fuel filler cap, you may need to get the fuel system checked for possible electrical issues. If the problem persists, seek help from one of the certified technicians at YourMechanic and get them to inspect the fuel filler cap and determine the cause of the problem.

This article originally appeared on YourMechanic. It could also generate an error in your car's fuel system, causing the "check engine" light to come on. Your biggest risk is from fuel theft, as a missing cap makes it easier to steal petrol or diesel from a parked car. Driving without your fuel filler cap, especially temporarily, is unlikely to cause damage to your car, but should be avoided.

There are lots of reasons why a car maker might choose to put the fuel filler cap on the left or the right side of the car. Sometimes these are to make it safer to refuel the car from a jerry can at the side of the road, so that somebody who has broken down doesn't need to stand in traffic. Other times it's for mechanical reasons - for example, to make it easier for a cable-release fuel flap to be operated from the driver's side, or to make room for a sliding door on a van.

Under car design regulations, the filler cap must be protected by the structure of the vehicle, to prevent fires in a collision. This is why the filler cap can't be in the middle at the very back of the car. Jump directly to the content. Sign in.