How to Replace the Fuel Filler Cap on a 2017-2022 Kia Niro (Fix EVAP Leaks & Check Engine Light) (Engine: Inline 4 1.6L)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, parts, safety tips, and EVAP/check-engine troubleshooting
How to Replace the Fuel Filler Cap on a 2017-2022 Kia Niro (Fix EVAP Leaks & Check Engine Light) (Engine: Inline 4 1.6L)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, parts, safety tips, and EVAP/check-engine troubleshooting for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
🔧 Niro - Fuel Filler Cap Replacement
Replacing the fuel filler cap on your Niro is a quick job that helps prevent fuel vapor leaks that can trigger an EVAP warning light and fuel smell. You’ll remove the old cap (and its tether strap if equipped) and install a new cap that seals correctly.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.3 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work in a well-ventilated area; fuel vapors are flammable.
- ⚠️ No smoking, sparks, or open flames near the fuel door.
- ⚠️ Make sure the car is OFF and not charging before opening the fuel door.
- ⚠️ If you hear pressure release, open the cap slowly and pause.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Plastic trim removal tool (specialty)
- Small flat-blade screwdriver
- Clean shop towel
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel filler cap (OEM-style, sealed) - Qty: 1
- Fuel cap tether strap (if damaged or not included with cap) - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park your Niro on level ground and shift to Park.
- Turn the car OFF and confirm it’s not plugged in/charging.
- Press the fuel door release (driver area) to open the fuel door.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel door and remove the old cap
- Open the fuel door by hand.
- Use your hand to turn the fuel cap counterclockwise slowly until it comes off.
- If you hear a “whoosh,” pause for a second, then continue loosening.
- Set the cap on a clean shop towel to avoid getting dirt on the sealing surface.
Step 2: Inspect and clean the sealing area
- Use the clean shop towel to wipe the fuel filler neck sealing surface (the round area where the cap seals).
- Check for cracks, sand, or damage on the filler neck lip.
- Clean seals prevent EVAP leaks.
Step 3: Transfer the tether strap (if your cap has one)
- A “tether” is the small strap that keeps the cap attached to the car so it doesn’t get lost.
- If the tether clips onto the cap, use a plastic trim removal tool (specialty) to gently pry the tether clip free.
- If needed, use a small flat-blade screwdriver carefully to release the clip without breaking it.
- Attach the tether to the new cap the same way it came off.
Step 4: Install the new cap and tighten it correctly
- Place the new cap onto the fuel filler neck and turn it clockwise by hand.
- Keep turning until you feel/hear it click.
- Stop after it clicks; don’t force it tighter.
Step 5: Close the fuel door
- Close the fuel door and press gently until it latches.
- Wipe any fingerprints or fuel residue with the clean shop towel.
✅ After Repair
- Start your Niro and check the dash for any warning lights.
- If you were replacing the cap due to a check-engine light, it may take a few normal drives for the light to clear after the system retests.
- If the cap is tight and the light stays on, the issue may be a different EVAP leak (hose/valve).
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: ₹800-₹2,500 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: ₹600-₹1,800 (parts only)
You Save: ₹200-₹700 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run ₹800-₹1,500/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.2-0.4 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.


















