2008 Ford Taurus X - Gas Cap

When Should I Replace My Gas Cap?

Your vehicle's fuel cap, more commonly referred to as a gas cap, protects and seals your fuel tank filler neck to prevent fuel evaporation or contamination. Fuel caps are designed to seal the opening to your gas tank to prevent debris or contaminants from entering the tank, prevent condensation formation inside the tank, and control vapor emissions to keep them from escaping. Many gas caps are even lockable, allowing you to manually lock and secure your fuel cap to reduce the risk of fuel theft or vandalism to your vehicle. A loose or damaged gas cap can be hazardous and can allow fuel to evaporate from the tank. Fuel vapor is extremely flammable, and sparks or other ignition sources near your gas tank could be very dangerous if it is not fully sealed. If your Check Engine light turns on after filling up, it could be your evaporative emissions system notifying you of a faulty seal around your gas cap, or it could simply indicate that your gas cap is too loose and needs to be tightened. If your gas cap has turned on your Check Engine Light, visit your local O'Reilly Auto Parts for free Check Engine light diagnostic testing. A cracked, damaged, or poorly-sealed gas cap can allow water, dirt, or dust to contaminate your vehicle's fuel, and can elevate the risk of fuel vapor emissions, which can lead to fuel loss and pollution. If you struggle to tighten, seal, or remove your fuel cap, your Check Engine light is on, you notice a lingering smell of gasoline while near or in your vehicle, or you experience a decrease in fuel mileage, these may be signs that you need to replace your gas cap. Shop O'Reilly Auto Parts for a variety of locking gas caps, tethered gas caps, and more to best protect your vehicle's fuel tank. You can also learn more about why gas caps are important in our helpful How-To Hub.