How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2019 Nissan Kicks (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with required parts, tools, safety tips, and post-repair checks for 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2019 Nissan Kicks (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with required parts, tools, safety tips, and post-repair checks for 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
🔧 Kicks - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing the fuel cap on your Kicks is a quick job: you remove the old cap from the filler neck and install a new, correct-fit cap. A good seal is important to prevent fuel vapor leaks and to avoid an EVAP-related check engine light.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.2 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work in a well-ventilated area away from sparks, cigarettes, or open flames.
- ⚠️ Turn the engine OFF and keep the key fob away from the vehicle while working at the fuel door.
- ⚠️ Do not top off fuel or spill fuel; wipe any drips immediately.
- ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Shop towel
- Flashlight
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap (OE-style, non-locking) - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park your Kicks on level ground and shift to P.
- Turn the engine OFF and wait 1 minute so fuel vapors settle.
- Have a shop towel ready in case there’s any fuel residue.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel door
- Open the fuel door on the driver side.
- Use a flashlight to check the area is clean and dry.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Put on nitrile gloves.
- Turn the cap counterclockwise until it releases, then pull it off.
- If your cap has a tether (a small strap), let it hang or set the cap aside carefully.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the sealing surfaces
- Use a shop towel to wipe the filler neck sealing surface (the smooth ring where the cap seals).
- Look for cracks, dirt, or damage on the old cap’s rubber seal.
- Clean seal = fewer EVAP issues.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- Align the new cap on the filler neck and turn it clockwise by hand.
- Keep turning until you feel and hear it “click” several times (this is the cap’s built-in clutch to prevent over-tightening).
- If there is a tether, make sure it isn’t twisted and the cap hangs naturally.
Step 5: Close the fuel door
- Close the fuel door firmly.
- Use a shop towel to wipe any fingerprints or residue.
✅ After Repair
- Start your Kicks and confirm there is no fuel smell near the fuel door.
- If you had a check engine light related to an EVAP leak, it may take a few normal drive cycles to turn off on its own after the cap seals correctly.
- If the light stays on after a few days of driving, the issue may be elsewhere (purge valve, vent valve, or a leak).
💰 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.
🎯 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.
















