🔧 Impala - Fuel Cap Replacement

Your Impala’s fuel cap seals the fuel system so fuel vapors don’t leak out and the EVAP system can run its self-tests. Replacing a worn, cracked, or missing cap is quick and can prevent a Check Engine light related to “small/large EVAP leak.”

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.3 hours

---

⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⛽ Work in a well-ventilated area; avoid breathing fuel vapors.
• 🚭 No smoking, flames, or sparks near the fuel door.
• 🧤 Wear gloves and wipe any spilled fuel immediately.
• 🔑 Engine OFF and key out while opening the fuel system.

---

🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Nitrile gloves
• Shop towel
• Flashlight

---

🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Fuel cap (EVAP-compatible, tethered type) - Qty: 1

---

📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and shut the engine off.
• Wait 1–2 minutes after shutting off before removing the old cap.
• Have a shop towel ready in case there’s a small fuel drip.

---

🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open the fuel door

• Open the fuel door on the driver side rear quarter panel.
• Use a flashlight to look at the cap and sealing area.

Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap

• Put on nitrile gloves.
• Turn the cap counterclockwise until it releases, then remove it.
• If you hear a light “hiss,” that’s normal pressure equalizing.

Step 3: Inspect and clean the sealing surfaces

• Use a shop towel to wipe the filler neck sealing lip (where the cap’s rubber seal touches).
• Check the filler neck for dirt, rust flakes, or nicks that could prevent sealing.
• Clean, dry sealing surface prevents EVAP leak codes.

Step 4: Install the new fuel cap

• Place the new cap on the filler neck and turn it clockwise.
• Keep turning until the cap clicks several times (this indicates it’s fully tightened).
• Make sure the tether (strap) isn’t pinched and the cap sits flat.

Step 5: Close the fuel door

• Close the fuel door securely.
• Use the shop towel to wipe any fuel residue around the area.

---

✅ After Repair

• Start your Impala and confirm there’s no fuel smell around the fuel door.
• If you had a Check Engine light for an EVAP leak, it may take a few drive cycles to turn off on its own.
• If the light stays on after several days of normal driving, the issue may be another EVAP leak (hose, purge valve, vent valve) and will need diagnosis.

---

💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $30-$90 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $10-$35 (parts only)

You Save: $20-$55 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.2-0.5 hours.

---

🎯 Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.