How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016-2022 Honda HR-V (Engine: Inline 4 1.8L)
Step-by-step DIY instructions with parts, tools, safety tips, and check engine light notes for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016-2022 Honda HR-V (Engine: Inline 4 1.8L)
Step-by-step DIY instructions with parts, tools, safety tips, and check engine light notes for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
๐ง HR-V - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing the fuel cap on your HR-V is one of the easiest DIY repairs. A loose, cracked, or leaking fuel cap can trigger an emissions warning or check engine light because the fuel system cannot hold pressure correctly.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 5-10 minutes
โ ๏ธ Safety & Precautions
- โฝ Work in a well-ventilated area and keep sparks, flames, cigarettes, and hot tools away from the fuel filler area.
- ๐งค Wear nitrile gloves if fuel odor or residue is present.
- ๐ Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.
- ๐ Make sure the engine is off before opening the fuel door.
๐ง Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Clean shop rag
- Safety glasses
๐ฉ Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel filler cap - Qty: 1
๐ Before You Begin
- Park your HR-V on level ground.
- Turn the engine off.
- Set the parking brake.
- Have the replacement fuel cap ready before removing the old one.
- A fuel cap seal is the rubber ring on the cap that helps seal fuel vapors inside the tank.
๐จ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the Fuel Door
- Use your hand to open the fuel door on the left rear side of your HR-V.
- Make sure the area around the fuel filler opening is clean.
- Use a clean shop rag to wipe away dirt around the cap before removing it.
- Keep dirt out of the tank.
Step 2: Remove the Old Fuel Cap
- Wear nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
- Use your hand to turn the old fuel cap counterclockwise until it comes loose.
- If the cap has a tether, unclip the tether from the fuel door by hand.
- A tether is the small plastic strap that keeps the cap attached to the vehicle.
Step 3: Inspect the Fuel Filler Neck
- Use a clean shop rag to gently wipe the sealing surface where the cap tightens.
- Check for dirt, rust, or damage around the filler neck opening.
- Do not push the rag into the fuel filler neck.
- If fuel smell is strong, pause and let the area air out before continuing.
Step 4: Install the New Fuel Cap
- Attach the new cap tether to the fuel door by hand if the replacement cap includes one.
- Place the new fuel cap onto the filler neck.
- Use your hand to turn the cap clockwise until it clicks.
- Continue turning until you hear at least one clear click.
- No torque spec is used for this cap; tighten by hand only.
- Do not use pliers.
Step 5: Close the Fuel Door
- Use your hand to close the fuel door firmly.
- Make sure the fuel door sits flush with the body panel.
โ After Repair
- Start your HR-V and confirm there is no strong fuel smell near the fuel door.
- If a check engine light was caused by a loose or bad fuel cap, it may take several drive cycles to turn off on its own.
- A drive cycle means normal driving where the vehicle warms up, runs, and shuts off again.
- If the light stays on after several days of normal driving, scan the vehicle for codes before replacing more parts.
๐ฐ 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 0.2-0.4 hours.
๐ฏ 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.









