How to Install a Locking Fuel Cap on a 2018-2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (Engine: V8 5.3L)
Step-by-step guide to fitting a Motorad MGC916 cover on the capless fuel filler for 2018, 2019
How to Install a Locking Fuel Cap on a 2018-2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (Engine: V8 5.3L)
Step-by-step guide to fitting a Motorad MGC916 cover on the capless fuel filler for 2018, 2019
🔧 Silverado 1500 - Fuel Cap Replacement
Your Silverado uses a capless fuel filler, so there normally isn't a threaded factory gas cap to replace. To add protection, fit the Motorad MGC916 locking fuel-filler cover directly over the capless opening.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 5-10 minutes
Assumption: You mean the removable cover at the fuel-filler opening, not the painted exterior fuel door.
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Switch the engine off and keep cigarettes, flames, and sparks away.
- 🧤 Avoid pushing tools or fingers through the spring-loaded filler seals.
- 🔋 Battery disconnection isn't required.
- ⛽ Stop if the filler neck is damaged or you smell strong fuel vapors continuously.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
- Clean microfiber cloth
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Motorad MGC916 locking fuel-filler cover - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park your Silverado on level ground and shift the transmission into Park.
- Turn off the engine and remove the ignition key or keep the key fob away from the cab.
- Make sure the replacement cover includes its keys and operates smoothly before installation.
- Do not lubricate the filler opening or cover with oil or grease.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the Fuel Door
- Press and release the rear edge of the exterior fuel door, then swing it open.
- Use the safety glasses and nitrile gloves while working near the fuel opening.
Step 2: Inspect the Capless Filler
- Check the filler opening for sand, dirt, broken plastic, or damage.
- Use the clean microfiber cloth to wipe around the outside rim.
- Do not push dirt through either internal sealing flap.
- Clean the rim, not inside the neck.
Step 3: Prepare the Locking Cover
- Use the supplied key to place the locking cover in its unlocked position.
- Check that the locking tabs move when the key is turned.
- No torque specification applies because the cover installs by hand.
Step 4: Install the New Cover
- Center the cover squarely over the capless filler opening.
- Press it into place by hand and turn it in the locking direction until fully seated.
- Use the supplied key to lock it, then remove the key.
- Pull gently on the cover to confirm it cannot be removed.
- Never use pliers. This job needs fingers, not horsepower.
Step 5: Close the Fuel Door
- Make sure the cover doesn't contact the inside of the exterior fuel door.
- Swing the fuel door closed and press its rear edge until it latches.
✅ After Repair
- Unlock and remove the cover once to verify that the key works correctly.
- Reinstall and lock it again before driving.
- If a check-engine light was caused by a capless filler sealing problem, a cover may not fix it. Inspect the internal filler seals for dirt or damage.
- No programming, scan-tool reset, or battery procedure is required.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $75-$140, including inspection and installation
DIY Cost: About $52 for the locking cover
You Save: Approximately $23-$88 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This installation 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.









