How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2018 Honda HR-V (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap swap with required tools/parts, sealing tips, and post-repair verification for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2018 Honda HR-V (Fix EVAP Leak & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap swap with required tools/parts, sealing tips, and post-repair verification for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
🔧 HR-V - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing the fuel cap is a quick job: you remove the old cap and install a new one that seals correctly. A good seal helps prevent fuel vapor leaks and can prevent a check engine light related to the EVAP system.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.2 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area away from flames or sparks.
- ⚠️ Do not smoke while working near the fuel filler area.
- ⚠️ Avoid topping off fuel; it can damage the EVAP system.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Clean shop towel
- Flashlight
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap (capless-filler compatible replacement for HR-V) - Qty: 1
- Fuel cap tether/retainer (if damaged) - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park your HR-V on level ground and turn the ignition OFF.
- Let the vehicle sit 1–2 minutes if you just drove it.
- Wipe dirt off around the fuel filler door area using a clean shop towel.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel filler door
- Press/release the fuel door the usual way, then open it fully.
- Use a flashlight to look for dirt around the filler neck opening.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Put on nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
- Turn the cap counterclockwise until it comes free, then remove it by hand.
- If your cap has a tether (the little strap that keeps it attached), gently unhook it from the cap using your fingers.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the sealing area
- Use a clean shop towel to wipe the rubber sealing surface on the filler neck (the ring where the cap seals).
- Check the old cap’s seal for cracks or a flattened rubber ring.
- Tip: Dirt here can cause EVAP leak codes.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- If equipped, attach the tether to the new cap by hand (no tools).
- Thread the new cap on clockwise by hand until it seats.
- Continue turning until you feel/hear at least one “click” (that click means the cap is tight enough to seal).
Step 5: Close up and verify
- Close the fuel filler door firmly.
- Use a flashlight to make sure the cap sits flat and looks straight (not cross-threaded).
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and make sure the fuel door is fully closed.
- If you had a check engine light for a loose cap/EVAP leak, it may take several normal drive cycles to turn off on its own.
- If the light stays on after a few days, you’ll likely need a scan to confirm the exact code.
💰 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.

















