How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Toyota Highlander
Step-by-step instructions, safety tips, parts, and EVAP light troubleshooting
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Toyota Highlander
Step-by-step instructions, safety tips, parts, and EVAP light troubleshooting
🔧 Fuel Cap - Replacement
Replacing the fuel cap is a quick fix if the old cap is damaged, missing the seal, or no longer clicks tight. A loose or bad cap can trigger a check engine light and let fuel vapors escape.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.3 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Work with the engine off and away from sparks, flames, and smoking.
- Do not overfill the fuel tank before or after replacement.
- If your model has a locking fuel door, make sure it is fully open before removing the cap.
- No battery disconnect is required.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- No tools required
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and turn the ignition off.
- Let the fuel system sit a few minutes before opening the cap if the vehicle was just driven.
- Inspect the fuel filler neck threads and seal area for dirt or damage before installing the new cap.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel door
- Press the fuel door release or open the fuel door by hand, depending on the setup.
- Make sure the area around the cap is clean before removal.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Turn the fuel cap counterclockwise by hand until it releases.
- If it is tethered, let it hang from the strap without forcing it.
- Do not force a stuck cap.
Step 3: Inspect the filler neck
- Check the sealing surface and threads on the filler neck for cracks, rust, or dirt.
- Wipe the area clean with a lint-free cloth if needed.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- Align the cap with the filler neck and turn it clockwise by hand.
- Continue turning until you hear or feel it click several times.
- Make sure it seats fully and feels snug.
Step 5: Close the fuel door
- Close the fuel door securely.
- Confirm the cap is seated properly before driving.
✅ After Repair
- Start the vehicle and confirm the fuel cap warning light or check engine light is off.
- If a check engine light was on, it may clear after a few drive cycles.
- If the light stays on, a scan tool may be needed to clear the code and verify the EVAP system.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $50-$120 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $15-$40 (parts only)
You Save: $35-$80 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.
🎯 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.














