How to Tighten a Gas Cap

An improperly tightened gas cap can cause gas fumes to leak from the tank, which can lead to a "Check Engine" light appearing in your odometer cluster. Properly tightening a gas cap after filling up your vehicle with fuel is necessary to prevent this. You can follow a specific procedure to ensure your gas cap is properly tightened.

  • Turn your car's engine off. Pull the fuel door release lever if your car has a locking fuel door.

  • Open the fuel door and unscrew the gas cap. Pump your gas. Don't top off the tank. Stop pumping as soon as the automatic shut-off kicks in.

  • Place the gas cap onto fuel port. Push it down firmly and turn it clockwise until you hear three clicks. This ensures the gas cap is properly tightened.