Why does my car say loose fuel cap?
If you see the loose fuel cap warning shown in the vehicle information display, it usually means that the gas cap isn’t screwed down all the way. If the gas cap’s seal doesn’t lock in, the system will detect a leak and light up both the Check Engine Light and display a message in the vehicle information window.
Can a loose gas cap cause a check engine light to come on?
If your check engine light is on, and your vehicle seems to be running normally; and there are no other warning lights on, the problem might just be a loose gas cap. NOTE: The check engine light will NOT come on immediately following a fill up. Even if you forgot to put the gas cap back on or did not get the cap fully tightened.
What does it mean if your gas cap is loose?
This system monitors a number of engine and emissions-related components to ensure that everything is in working order. If your gas cap is not properly attached, you may see a “Check Engine” light or a “Loose Cap” warning light on the dash.
How can I tell if my gas cap is cracked?
Open the gas cap door if required and get out of the car. If it is dark, take a flashlight with you. In order to check if the gas cap is cracked, you may need the extra light. Look at the gas cap. Do you notice any cracks, chips, or tears in it? If so, a simple gas cap replacement may be able to solve your problem.
What to do if your gas cap won’t tighten?
You can either tighten the cap and wait for the system to reset itself when it determines the problem is fixed, or you can use an OBD-II code scanner to manually reset the system. Turn off your vehicle’s engine. Push button to unlock the gas cap door, if your vehicle is equipped with a locking gas cap door.
What does the Check Engine light signify?
The check engine light is a signal that the onboard diagnostics system (or OBD II) has detected a malfunction in the vehicle’s emissions, ignition, fuel or exhaust systems.
Why is the Check Engine light on?
Top 7 Reasons Your Check Engine Light is On One Sensor has a Loose Electrical Connection or is Damaged. Loose or Damaged Fuel Cap. Today’s modern cars, trucks and SUV’s are very carefully monitored for fuel economy and emissions. Damaged O2 sensor. Catalytic Converter is Clogged. Air Filter or Fuel Filter is Dirty. Mass Air Flow Sensor is Damaged. Engine has Oil Lubrication Issues.
What does the fuel cap light mean?
Simply put, if your fuel cap light is on, it means that the computer has detected a leak in the system, typically from a loose gas cap. If this light comes on while driving, pull over in a safe spot and re-secure the cap. Continue driving normally with the light illuminated and it should go off within a day or two.
Why do check-engine lights come on and go off?
Occasionally, the check engine light comes on when nothing is wrong with the car, said Steve Mazor, chief automotive engineer for the Auto Club of Southern California. It could be a temporary problem caused by a change in humidity or other factors. In such cases, the light should go off by itself after a short time.