How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2018 Jeep Renegade (Fix EVAP Leaks & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, correct tightening clicks, safety tips, and what to do if the CEL stays on
How to Replace the Fuel Cap on a 2018 Jeep Renegade (Fix EVAP Leaks & Check Engine Light)
Step-by-step fuel cap replacement with tools, correct tightening clicks, safety tips, and what to do if the CEL stays on
🔧 Renegade - Fuel Cap Replacement
Replacing your Renegade’s fuel cap is quick and helps prevent EVAP leaks (fuel vapor leaks) that can cause a check-engine light and fuel smell. You’ll remove the old cap and install a new one that seals correctly.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.1-0.2 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work in a well-ventilated area away from sparks, cigarettes, or open flames.
- ⚠️ Turn the engine off before opening the fuel door.
- ⚠️ If you smell strong fuel vapor, stop and let it air out first.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Flashlight
- Clean shop towel
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Fuel cap (EVAP-sealing type) - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and turn the engine off.
- Wait 1-2 minutes after shutdown so fuel vapors settle.
- Have your clean shop towel ready to wipe the filler neck sealing surface.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the fuel door
- Open the fuel door by hand.
- Use a flashlight to look for dirt or damage around the filler opening.
Step 2: Remove the old fuel cap
- Grip the cap and turn it counterclockwise until it comes off.
- If your cap has a tether (a small strap that keeps it attached), let it hang safely.
Step 3: Clean the sealing area
- Use a clean shop towel to wipe the filler neck rim where the cap seals.
- Don’t push dirt into the filler neck.
Step 4: Install the new fuel cap
- Place the new cap on and turn it clockwise by hand.
- Tighten until you feel and/or hear it click (usually 1–3 clicks). This is what makes the seal.
- If there’s a tether, make sure it isn’t twisted or pinched.
Step 5: Close the fuel door
- Close the fuel door fully until it latches.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and confirm there’s no fuel smell near the fuel door area.
- If you had a check-engine light from a loose/bad cap, it may take a few drive cycles to turn off on its own.
- If the light stays on after a few days of normal driving, the issue may be another EVAP leak (hose, purge valve, etc.).
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $25-$90 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $10-$35 (parts only)
You Save: $15-$55 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.
🎯 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.









