How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with safety tips, parts list, and what to expect after repair for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with safety tips, parts list, and what to expect after repair for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
🔧 Sierra 1500 - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing the fuel cap on your Sierra 1500 is a quick job: remove the old cap and install a new one that seals correctly. A good seal helps prevent fuel vapor leaks and can stop an EVAP-related check engine light caused by a loose or failed cap.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.2 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work in a well-ventilated area and keep sparks/flames away from the fuel door.
- ⚠️ Don’t replace the cap right after driving if the fuel area is hot.
- ⚠️ No battery disconnect is required for this repair.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- None
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap (OEM-style sealing cap) - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and shift to P.
- Turn the engine off and remove the key/fob from the truck area.
- Open the fuel door on the driver side rear quarter panel.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Remove the old fuel cap
- Put on nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
- Turn the cap counterclockwise by hand until it releases, then remove it.
- If your cap is tethered (a small strap that keeps it from getting lost), let it hang from the fuel door area.
Step 2: Inspect the sealing surface
- Wipe the filler neck sealing lip with a clean shop towel (no tools required).
- Look for dirt, rust, or nicks that could prevent sealing.
- Clean sealing area for best EVAP seal.
Step 3: Install the new fuel cap
- Install the new cap onto the filler neck by hand.
- Turn it clockwise until it fully seats.
- Continue turning until you feel/hear the cap click (typically multiple clicks). That click means the internal clutch has tightened it correctly.
Step 4: Close the fuel door
- Close the fuel door firmly by hand until it latches.
✅ After Repair
- Start your Sierra 1500 and confirm there’s no “tighten gas cap” message (if equipped).
- If you replaced the cap due to a check engine light: EVAP codes may take a few normal drive cycles to clear on their own.
- If the light stays on after a few days of driving, the issue may be another EVAP leak (hose, purge valve, vent valve) and the truck should be scanned for codes.
💰 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 0.1-0.2 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.















