How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Dodge Journey (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with required tools/parts, seal inspection tips, and post-repair checks for 2009, 2010
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Dodge Journey (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with required tools/parts, seal inspection tips, and post-repair checks for 2009, 2010
🔧 Journey - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing the fuel cap is a quick job: you’ll remove the old cap from the filler neck and install a new one that seals correctly. A good seal is important because a loose or faulty cap can trigger an EVAP leak (often a check-engine light) and can let fuel vapors escape.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.3 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work in a well-ventilated area away from sparks, cigarettes, or open flames.
- ⚠️ Turn the engine OFF before opening the fuel door.
- ⚠️ Do not top off the tank after the pump clicks off; it can cause EVAP issues.
- Battery disconnect is not required.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Clean shop towel
- Flashlight
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap (EVAP-sealed, tether-compatible) - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park your Journey on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Shut the engine off and remove the key.
- Use a flashlight to look at the fuel filler neck area for dirt or damage.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel door
- Open the fuel door on the driver side rear quarter panel.
- Put on nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Turn the cap counterclockwise by hand until it comes free.
- If you hear a small “whoosh,” that can be normal pressure release.
- Set the old cap aside on a clean surface or hold it with a clean shop towel.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the sealing area
- Use the flashlight to check the filler neck rim (the round sealing surface) for cracks, rust, or debris.
- Wipe the rim gently with a clean shop towel so the new cap can seal.
- Clean seal area prevents “small leak” codes.
Step 4: Transfer the tether (if equipped)
- If your old cap has a small strap/cord (called a “tether,” which keeps the cap from getting lost), move it to the new cap if the new cap doesn’t already include one.
- Most tethers clip into a small slot on the fuel door area—use your fingers and work gently to avoid breaking the clip.
Step 5: Install the new fuel cap
- Thread the new cap onto the filler neck by hand (clockwise).
- Tighten until you feel it fully seat and you hear/feel at least 1–3 clicks (cap-dependent). This is the built-in “clutch” that prevents over-tightening.
- Torque spec: Not applicable (hand-tight until it clicks).
Step 6: Close up
- Close the fuel door firmly.
- Wipe any fingerprints or fuel residue with a clean shop towel.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and make sure you don’t see “GASCAP”/fuel-cap warnings (if your cluster displays them).
- If you replaced the cap due to a check-engine light: the EVAP monitor may take a few normal drive cycles to reset and turn the light off on its own. If the light stays on, the vehicle may need a code scan.
- At your next fill-up, confirm the cap clicks and the door closes normally.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: ₹800-₹2,000 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: ₹500-₹1,500 (parts only)
You Save: ₹300-₹500 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair 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.

















