How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Dodge Durango (Fix EVAP/Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, parts, safety tips, and leak-prevention checks
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Dodge Durango (Fix EVAP/Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, parts, safety tips, and leak-prevention checks
š§ Durango - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing the fuel cap on your Durango is a quick job: remove the old cap and install a new one that seals properly. A good seal prevents fuel vapor leaks and helps avoid an EVAP warning light (like a āCheck Engineā related to emissions).
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.3 hours
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā ļø Work in fresh air; fuel vapors are flammable.
- ā ļø No smoking, sparks, or open flames near the fuel door.
- ā ļø Avoid topping off the tank; it can saturate the EVAP system.
- ā ļø Battery disconnect is not required.
š§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Shop towel
- Small flat-head screwdriver
š© Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap (sealed replacement) - Qty: 1
š Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and shut the engine off.
- Wait 1-2 minutes after shutting off the engine to reduce fuel vapor pressure.
- Open the fuel door.
šØ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the old fuel cap
- Use your hand to turn the cap counterclockwise until it comes off.
- Use a shop towel to wipe the filler neck sealing surface (the round lip where the cap seals).
- Tip: Dirt on the lip can cause leaks.
Step 2: Transfer the tether (if your new cap doesnāt include one)
- Look for the small plastic strap (tether) that keeps the cap attached to the vehicle.
- If the tether is clipped to the old cap, use a small flat-head screwdriver to gently pry the clip open.
- A ātetherā is the strap that prevents losing the cap.
- Snap the tether onto the new cap in the same position.
Step 3: Install the new fuel cap
- Place the new cap onto the filler neck and turn it clockwise by hand.
- Keep turning until it clicks several times (typically 3 clicks). Clicking means itās tight enough to seal.
- Use nitrile gloves if you want to avoid fuel smell on your hands.
Step 4: Close up and clear any lingering warning (if it was on)
- Close the fuel door.
- If you had a check-engine light from a loose cap, it may take a few drive cycles to turn off after the seal is fixed.
- Tip: Donāt keep re-tightening dailyājust click-tight once.
ā After Repair
- Start your Durango and confirm thereās no fuel smell around the filler area.
- After your next drive, re-check that the cap is still click-tight.
- If the warning light was on: it may clear on its own; otherwise a basic OBD2 code reader can clear the code after the repair.
š° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $40-$120 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $15-$45 (parts only)
You Save: $25-$75 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.2-0.5 hours.
šÆ 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.
















