How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Kia Sedona (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with required tools/parts, safety tips, and what to do if the CEL stays on
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Kia Sedona (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with required tools/parts, safety tips, and what to do if the CEL stays on
š§ Sedona - Fuel Cap Replacement
Your fuel cap seals the fuel tank so fuel vapors stay in the system (EVAP) and your check engine light doesnāt come on. Replacing it is quick and usually fixes issues like a āloose gas capā warning, fuel smell, or EVAP-related trouble codes.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.3 hours
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā ļø Work outside or in a well-ventilated area; fuel vapors are flammable.
- ā ļø Turn the engine OFF and keep away from sparks, cigarettes, or open flames.
- ā ļø If the van was just running, wait a few minutes before opening the fuel door.
- ā ļø Battery disconnect is not required.
š§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Clean shop towel
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 Park.
- Turn the engine off and remove the key/fob from the cabin.
- Open the fuel door and visually check for dirt around the filler neck.
šØ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel door
- Open the fuel door by hand.
- Put on nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Turn the cap counterclockwise (left) until it comes off.
- If your cap is tethered (attached with a small strap), let it hangādonāt pull hard on the strap.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the sealing surface
- Use a clean shop towel to wipe the filler-neck sealing surface (the smooth area the cap seals against).
- Check the old capās rubber seal for cracks, flattening, or missing pieces.
- Clean, dry sealing surfaces prevent EVAP leaks.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- Place the new cap on the filler neck and turn it clockwise (right).
- Tighten until it fully seats and clicks (if your cap is a āclickā style). If it doesnāt click, tighten snugly by handādo not use tools.
Step 5: Close the fuel door
- Close the fuel door firmly until it latches.
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/loose cap, it may take a few drive cycles to turn off on its own.
- If the light stays on, the issue may be elsewhere in the EVAP system (purge valve, vent valve, hoses), not the cap.
š° 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 0.2-0.4 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.
















