How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Ford Fusion (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, safety tips, sealing-surface checks, and what to do if the CEL stays on
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Ford Fusion (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, safety tips, sealing-surface checks, and what to do if the CEL stays on
š§ Fusion - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing the fuel cap is a quick job that helps keep the fuel system sealed. A bad or missing cap can let fuel vapors escape and may turn on the check engine light (often for an EVAP leak).
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.2 hours
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā ļø Work in a well-ventilated area; fuel vapors are flammable.
- ā ļø No smoking, sparks, or open flames near the fuel door.
- ā ļø If the engine was just running, avoid touching hot exhaust parts near the rear of the car.
- ā ļø Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.
š§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Clean shop towel
- Flashlight
š© Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap - Qty: 1
š Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and shift to P.
- Turn the ignition off and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
- Have a clean shop towel ready to wipe the filler neck seal area.
šØ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel door
- Press the fuel door to pop it open.
- Use a flashlight if lighting is poor.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Turn the cap counterclockwise until it releases, then pull it off.
- If thereās a tether (a small retaining strap), let the cap hang so it doesnāt scratch paint.
- Turn slowly to avoid splashing fumes.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the sealing surface
- Use a flashlight to check the filler neck rim (where the cap seals) for dirt, cracks, or rust.
- Wipe the rim clean using a clean shop towel.
- Check the old capās seal (rubber ring). If itās cracked or flattened, replacement was needed.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- Place the new cap on the filler neck and turn it clockwise by hand.
- Tighten until it clicks (if your replacement cap is the clicking type). If it doesnāt click, tighten it snug by handādo not use tools.
- Avoid over-tightening; it can damage the seal.
Step 5: Close the fuel door
- Push the fuel door closed until it latches.
- Use a shop towel to wipe any fingerprints or fuel residue around the area.
ā After Repair
- Start the engine and confirm thereās no fuel smell around the fuel door area.
- If your check engine light was on for an EVAP leak, it may take a few normal drive cycles to turn off on its own after the cap is sealing correctly.
- If the light stays on, the issue may be a different EVAP leak (not the cap).
š° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $40-$120 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $12-$35 (parts only)
You Save: $28-$85 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.1-0.2 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 Ford vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
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