How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2013 Ram 1500 (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap swap with required tools, safety tips, and what to expect after install
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2013 Ram 1500 (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap swap with required tools, safety tips, and what to expect after install
đź”§ 1500 - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing the fuel cap on your 1500 is a quick job, but it matters because a worn/incorrect cap can cause fuel vapor leaks (EVAP leak) and trigger a check engine light. You’ll remove the old cap, verify the seal surface is clean, and install the correct replacement cap until it clicks.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.3 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work outside or in a well-ventilated area—fuel vapors are flammable.
- ⚠️ No smoking, flames, or hot work near the fuel door.
- ⚠️ Turn the engine off and remove the key before opening the fuel door.
- ⚠️ If you smell strong fuel odor or see wet fuel, stop and inspect for leaks before driving.
- Battery disconnect is not required.
đź”§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Clean shop towel
- Flashlight
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap (EVAP-sealing type) - Qty: 1
đź“‹ Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Shut the engine off and let things sit 1–2 minutes to reduce vapor pressure.
- If your check engine light is on for an EVAP issue, plan to drive a few normal trips after replacement—some lights don’t turn off instantly.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel door
- Use your hand to open the fuel door on the bedside.
- Use a flashlight if visibility is low.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Put on nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
- Turn the cap counterclockwise by hand until it comes off.
- If the cap is tethered (a small strap), let it hang—don’t yank it.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the sealing surfaces
- Use a flashlight to look at the filler neck rim (the round surface the cap seals against).
- Wipe the rim with a clean shop towel to remove dust/grit.
- Clean and dry seals best.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- Thread the new cap on by hand clockwise.
- Tighten until you hear/feel the cap click (usually 1–3 clicks). This click is the cap’s built-in torque limiter.
- Do not use tools to tighten the cap.
Step 5: Close the fuel door
- Close the door firmly by hand until it latches.
âś… After Repair
- Start the engine and confirm there’s no “fuel cap” message (if equipped).
- If the check engine light was on, it may take a few drive cycles to turn off on its own.
- If the light stays on after a few days of normal driving, the EVAP leak may be elsewhere and may need a scan for codes.
đź’° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $40-$120 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $15-$40 (parts only)
You Save: $25-$80 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.2-0.4 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.

















