How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2010-2022 Kia Forte (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light) (Engine: Inline 4 2.0L)
Step-by-step fuel cap install with required parts, tools, safety tips, and what to do if the CEL stays on
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2010-2022 Kia Forte (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light) (Engine: Inline 4 2.0L)
Step-by-step fuel cap install with required parts, tools, safety tips, and what to do if the CEL stays on for 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
š§ Forte - Fuel Cap Replacement
Your Forteās fuel cap seals the fuel system so fumes donāt escape and the EVAP system (the emissions system that traps fuel vapors) can work correctly. Replacing it is quick and helps prevent a check-engine light and fuel smell.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.2 hours
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā ļø Work outside or in a well-ventilated areaāfuel vapors are flammable.
- ā ļø Keep away from smoking, sparks, hot bulbs, and open flames.
- ā ļø Donāt replace the cap right after driving if the area smells strongly of fuelālet vapors clear first.
- ā ļø Battery disconnect is not required.
š§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Clean shop towel
- Flashlight
š© Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap (EVAP-sealing type, correct fit for Forte) - Qty: 1
š Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and shift to Park.
- Turn the engine off and remove the key.
- Open the fuel door on the left rear quarter panel.
šØ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the old fuel cap
- Use nitrile gloves to keep fuel residue off your hands.
- Turn the cap counterclockwise until it releases, then pull it straight off.
- If your cap has a tether (the small strap that keeps it from getting lost), let it hang.
Step 2: Inspect and clean the sealing area
- Use a flashlight to look at the filler neck rim (the metal/plastic lip the cap seals against).
- Use a clean shop towel to wipe dirt or grit off the rim.
- Clean seal surface helps prevent EVAP leaks.
Step 3: Transfer the tether (if equipped and reusable)
- If the tether clips to the cap, move it to the new cap using your hands (no tools needed).
- If the new cap includes its own tether, use that and discard the old one.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- Place the new cap onto the filler neck and turn it clockwise by hand.
- Keep turning until you hear/feel at least 3 clicks (or it clearly ratchets and stops tightening).
- Do not use tools to tighten the capāhand-tight only.
Step 5: Close up
- Close the fuel door firmly.
- Wipe any fuel residue with the clean shop towel.
ā After Repair
- Start the engine and confirm thereās no fuel smell around the fuel door area.
- If you had a check-engine light for an EVAP leak, it may take a few normal drive cycles to turn off after the cap is sealing correctly.
- If the light stays on, the issue may be another EVAP leak (hose, purge valve, or vent valve).
š° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $40-$120 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $15-$45 (parts only)
You Save: $25-$75 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.1-0.3 hours.
šÆ 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.
Guide for Fuel Tank Cap replace for these Kia vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2022 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 1.6L | - |
| 2021 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2021 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 1.6L | - |
| 2020 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2020 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 1.6L | - |
| 2019 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2018 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2017 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2016 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2016 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 1.8L | - |
| 2015 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2015 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 1.8L | - |
| 2014 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2014 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 1.8L | - |
| 2013 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2013 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.4L | - |
| 2012 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2012 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.4L | - |
| 2011 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2011 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.4L | - |
| 2010 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2010 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.4L | - |
















