How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Kia Cadenza (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with required tools, part tips, safety precautions, and post-repair checks for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2016 Kia Cadenza (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with required tools, part tips, safety precautions, and post-repair checks for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
š§ Cadenza - Fuel Cap Replacement
The fuel cap seals your fuel tank so vapors donāt escape and dirt/water canāt get in. Replacing it is quick and helps prevent fuel smell and āCheck Engineā lights caused by EVAP leaks.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.3 hours
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā½ Work in a well-ventilated area away from flames, smoking, or sparks.
- Let the engine cool if you just drove; fuel vapors ignite easily.
- Do not top off the tank after the pump clicks off; it can damage the EVAP system.
- 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 rag
- 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 Park.
- Turn the engine off and remove the key/fob from the cabin area.
- Use a clean shop rag to wipe dust around the fuel door before opening. Keeps dirt out of the filler neck.
šØ 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 driver-side rear quarter.
- Use a flashlight to inspect the area for dirt or debris.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Use your hand (with nitrile gloves) to turn the cap counterclockwise until it releases.
- If the cap is tethered, let it hang; donāt twist the tether.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the sealing surfaces
- Use a clean shop rag to wipe the filler neck sealing surface (the flat ring where the cap seals).
- Check for cracked rubber, damaged threads, or dirt buildup on the old cap.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- Thread the new cap on by hand, turning clockwise.
- Tighten until it clicks several times (typically 1ā3 clicks). Clicks mean itās properly tightened.
Step 5: Close the fuel door
- Press the fuel door closed until itās flush and fully latched.
ā After Repair
- Start the engine and confirm thereās no fuel smell around the fuel door area.
- If you had a āCheck Engineā light from a loose cap, it may take a few normal drive cycles to turn off on its own.
- If the light stays on, you may need the code cleared with a scan tool (an EVAP leak can also be caused by hoses/valves, not just the cap).
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 0.1-0.3 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.

















