How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools list, fitment tips, and post-repair checks to prevent vapor leaks
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools list, fitment tips, and post-repair checks to prevent vapor leaks
đź”§ GLE - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing the fuel cap is quick and helps prevent fuel vapor leaks that can trigger a check engine light (EVAP leak) and cause a fuel smell. On your GLE, the new cap must seal correctly and “click” tight to work properly.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.2 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- â›˝ Work outside or in a well-ventilated area.
- Keep the engine OFF and keep sparks/flames away.
- Do not top off the tank after the pump clicks off.
- If the cap area is dirty, clean it first so grit doesn’t fall into the filler neck.
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 (OEM-equivalent, sealed type) - Qty: 1
đź“‹ Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and shift to Park.
- Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
- Have a clean shop towel ready to wipe the sealing surface.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel door
- Press/release the fuel door to open it.
- Use a flashlight if lighting is poor.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Put on nitrile gloves.
- Turn the cap counterclockwise until it releases, then pull it off.
- If there is a tether (a small retaining strap), let it hang—don’t twist it up.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the sealing area
- Use a clean shop towel to wipe the filler neck sealing surface (the smooth ring where the cap seals).
- Check the old cap’s rubber seal (O-ring) for cracks or flattening. A bad seal can cause EVAP leaks.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- Place the new cap onto the filler neck and turn it clockwise.
- Tighten until you hear/feel it “click” (typically 1–3 clicks). Stop at the clicks—don’t over-tighten.
- Torque spec: Not applicable (tighten until it clicks).
Step 5: Close the fuel door
- Push the fuel door closed until it latches flush.
- Remove your safety glasses and gloves when finished.
âś… After Repair
- Start the engine and confirm there’s no fuel smell around the fuel door.
- If you were replacing the cap due to a check engine light: it may take a few drive cycles for the light to turn off on its own. If it stays on, the EVAP leak may be elsewhere.
- Recheck the cap after your next fill-up to ensure it still clicks tight.
đź’° 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 0.1-0.2 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.

















