How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Ford Fusion (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, safety tips, sealing-surface checks, and what to do if the CEL stays on
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Ford Fusion (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, safety tips, sealing-surface checks, and what to do if the CEL stays on
š§ Fusion - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing the fuel cap is a quick job that helps keep the fuel system sealed. A bad or missing cap can let fuel vapors escape and may turn on the check engine light (often for an EVAP leak).
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.2 hours
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā ļø Work in a well-ventilated area; fuel vapors are flammable.
- ā ļø No smoking, sparks, or open flames near the fuel door.
- ā ļø If the engine was just running, avoid touching hot exhaust parts near the rear of the car.
- ā ļø Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.
š§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Clean shop towel
- Flashlight
š© Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap - Qty: 1
š Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and shift to P.
- Turn the ignition off and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
- Have a clean shop towel ready to wipe the filler neck seal area.
šØ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel door
- Press the fuel door to pop it open.
- Use a flashlight if lighting is poor.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Turn the cap counterclockwise until it releases, then pull it off.
- If thereās a tether (a small retaining strap), let the cap hang so it doesnāt scratch paint.
- Turn slowly to avoid splashing fumes.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the sealing surface
- Use a flashlight to check the filler neck rim (where the cap seals) for dirt, cracks, or rust.
- Wipe the rim clean using a clean shop towel.
- Check the old capās seal (rubber ring). If itās cracked or flattened, replacement was needed.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- Place the new cap on the filler neck and turn it clockwise by hand.
- Tighten until it clicks (if your replacement cap is the clicking type). If it doesnāt click, tighten it snug by handādo not use tools.
- Avoid over-tightening; it can damage the seal.
Step 5: Close the fuel door
- Push the fuel door closed until it latches.
- Use a shop towel to wipe any fingerprints or fuel residue around the area.
ā After Repair
- Start the engine and confirm thereās no fuel smell around the fuel door area.
- If your check engine light was on for an EVAP leak, it may take a few normal drive cycles to turn off on its own after the cap is sealing correctly.
- If the light stays on, the issue may be a different EVAP leak (not the cap).
š° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $40-$120 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $12-$35 (parts only)
You Save: $28-$85 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.1-0.2 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.

















