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2018 Ford Fusion
2018 Ford Fusion
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2013 - 2020 Ford Fusion - How to replace cap-less fuel filler neck !

2013 - 2020 Ford Fusion - How to replace cap-less fuel filler neck !

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How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2018 Ford Fusion

Step-by-step DIY instructions with parts, tools, safety tips, and check engine light guidance

How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2018 Ford Fusion

Step-by-step DIY instructions with parts, tools, safety tips, and check engine light guidance

Orion
Orion

🔧 Fusion - Fuel Cap Replacement

Replacing the fuel cap on your Fusion is a very simple repair. The fuel cap seals the fuel filler neck so the evaporative emissions system can hold pressure and keep fuel vapors contained.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 5-10 minutes


⚠️ Safety & Precautions

  • ⛽ Work in a well-ventilated area away from flames, cigarettes, heaters, or sparks.
  • 🧤 Avoid touching fuel residue with bare hands; gasoline can irritate skin.
  • 🚫 Do not top off the tank after the pump clicks off, because this can damage the evaporative emissions system.
  • 🔋 Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.

🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

  • Nitrile gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Clean microfiber cloth

🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

  • Fuel cap - Qty: 1

📋 Before You Begin

  • 🅿️ Park your Fusion on level ground and shift to Park.
  • 🔥 Turn the engine off and keep the key away from the ignition area.
  • ⛽ If you just refueled, wait a minute before opening the filler door so vapors can settle.
  • 💡 A tether is the small plastic strap that keeps the fuel cap attached to the vehicle so it does not get lost.

🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open the Fuel Door

  • Use your hand to press and release the rear edge of the fuel door.
  • The fuel door should pop open.
  • Put on nitrile gloves and safety glasses before touching the cap.

Step 2: Remove the Old Fuel Cap

  • Use your hand to turn the fuel cap counterclockwise until it comes loose.
  • Pull the cap straight out of the filler neck.
  • If your cap has a tether, use your fingers to unclip or slide the tether end off its retaining point.
  • Go slow so the tether does not snap.

Step 3: Inspect and Clean the Filler Neck

  • Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe the sealing surface around the fuel filler neck.
  • Look for dirt, rust, cracks, or pieces of the old cap seal.
  • Do not push dirt into the fuel opening.

Step 4: Install the New Fuel Cap

  • If equipped, attach the new cap tether by hand to the original retaining point.
  • Place the new fuel cap squarely into the filler neck.
  • Use your hand to turn the fuel cap clockwise until it clicks.
  • Keep turning until you hear at least one firm click.
  • No torque wrench is used; tighten by hand only.
  • Do not use pliers on the cap.

Step 5: Close the Fuel Door

  • Use your hand to swing the fuel door closed.
  • Press the fuel door gently until it latches flush with the body.

✅ After Repair

  • ✅ Start your Fusion and make sure there is no fuel smell around the filler door.
  • 🔍 If the check engine light was on for a loose or leaking fuel cap, it may take several drive cycles to turn off on its own.
  • 🛠️ If you want the light cleared immediately, use an OBD-II scan tool to clear evaporative emissions codes after confirming the cap is tight.
  • 🚗 Drive normally and recheck that the cap clicks tight after the next refuel.

💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $45-$95 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $15-$35 (parts only)

You Save: $30-$60 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.2-0.4 hours.


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