How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Hyundai Tucson (Fix EVAP/CEL Issues)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, correct fitment tips, and post-repair check engine light guidance
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Hyundai Tucson (Fix EVAP/CEL Issues)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, correct fitment tips, and post-repair check engine light guidance
đź”§ Tucson - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing your Tucson’s fuel cap is a quick job that helps prevent fuel vapors from escaping and can stop an EVAP-related check engine light caused by a loose or failing cap. You’ll remove the old cap, inspect the sealing area, and install a correct replacement cap that clicks tight.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.3 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work in a well-ventilated area, away from flames, smoking, or sparks.
- ⚠️ Turn the engine OFF before opening the fuel door.
- ⚠️ If you smell strong fuel odor, stop and do not start the vehicle.
- ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.
đź”§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Clean microfiber towel
- Flashlight
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap (EVAP-sealed, correct fit) - Qty: 1
đź“‹ Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and shift to Park.
- Turn the engine OFF and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
- If the vehicle was just driven, wait 2–3 minutes before opening the cap area. Lets tank pressure stabilize.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel door
- Use your hand to press/open the fuel door.
- Use a flashlight if it’s hard to see the cap area.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Put on nitrile gloves.
- Turn the cap counterclockwise (left) until it releases.
- If you hear a soft hiss, that can be normal tank pressure releasing.
- If your cap has a tether (a small strap), let it hang without twisting it.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the sealing surfaces
- Use a flashlight to look at the filler neck rim (the round sealing edge).
- Wipe the rim with a clean microfiber towel to remove dust, grit, or fuel residue.
- Check the old cap’s rubber seal (gasket). If it’s cracked, flattened, or missing, replacement was needed.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- Place the new cap onto the filler neck and turn it clockwise (right) by hand.
- Tighten until it clicks. Keep turning until you get at least 1–3 clicks (varies by cap design).
- Do not use tools to tighten—hand-tight only to avoid damaging the seal.
Step 5: Close the fuel door
- Close the fuel door firmly with your hand.
- Use the microfiber towel to wipe any spilled fuel if needed.
âś… After Repair
- Start the engine and confirm there’s no fuel smell around the fuel door area.
- If you replaced the cap due to a check engine light, it may take a few normal drive cycles for the light to turn off on its own.
- If the light stays on after a few days of driving, the issue may be a leak elsewhere in the EVAP system (not just the cap).
đź’° 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 0.1-0.3 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.

















