What Fuel Caps Fit My Car?
Your car’s fuel cap may need to be replaced if it’s no longer sealing the fuel system. This part of the car gets used a lot, naturally leading to deterioration as the number of miles you travel adds up.
Replacing a fuel cap might sound difficult, but it’s a simple process that a lot of car owners should be able to handle. But how do you know which fuel cap is right for your car? And what signs can tell you that it’s time for a new one?
If you’re looking to replace your car’s fuel cap, our guide can help…
How Will I Know When to Replace My Fuel Cap?
The fuel cap might not be a part of your car that you think of very often, so you might be wondering how to tell when it’s time to replace it.
Here are a few tell-tale signs to watch out for if you’re not sure whether your fuel cap needs replacing…
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The Fuel Cap Warning Light is On
Some newer car cars have a fuel cap warning light that will come up if the system detects a problem. If this light does flash up on your dashboard when you’re driving, it’s usually just a case of pulling over in a safe spot to re-secure a loose cap.
However, if you notice that the light hasn’t disappeared after more than a few days, or after driving over 100 miles, then it might be an indication that you have a broken seal and need a replacement fuel cap.
Visible Cracks in Fuel Cap Seal
If you can see cracks around the seal of your fuel cap, this is usually a strong indication that your fuel cap has worn down. Cracks are typically a result of moisture and debris getting into the engine and drying it out over time. If your seal isn’t secure, then this can lead to fuel leaking out, which usually means it’s time for a replacement.
Fuel Vapour Around the Cap
Unless you’ve just filled up your tank, there shouldn’t be a significant amount of fuel vapour surrounding the cap. Whether it’s a strong smell of fuel or visible fuel leakage, this is one of the easier ways to tell whether your fuel cap needs to be replaced.
An Older or Heavily Used Car
The more the fuel cap is used, the more wear and tear you will likely see. So, if you have an older car, or just a car with a decent number of miles on the clock, then it might be worth checking the fuel cap to see if it’s in need of a replacement.
What are the Different Types of Fuel Caps?
Fuel caps aren’t a one-size-fits-all component. The type that you need depends on the make and model of your car, so it’s important that you understand how to find the right one.
Fittings can either be internal or external, with some needing to be screwed into place and others having aligning components with those in the neck of the filler tube.
At Vipa, we supply both locking and non-locking fuel caps, as well as capless conversion systems for newer vehicles fitted with the easy fuel system instead of the traditional system.
For more detail on the types of fuel caps we offer, and how to fit them, you can follow our comprehensive Fuel Cap Fitting Guide.
How to Tell What Fuel Cap I Need
Making sure you’re buying the correct replacement fuel cap is essential. Here’s how you can check that you’re buying the right one…
Check the Existing Cap
The best way to find out what fitting type is right for your car is by checking what type your existing fuel cap is. From here, you should be able to work out which fuel cap replacement matches your current cap.
Check the Owner’s Manual
If you’re still feeling unsure, then your owner’s manual should be able to provide some information about the specific fuel cap fitting type in your vehicle and might even explain how to fit your replacement.
Need more information before you decide which replacement fuel cap to buy? Our comprehensive fuel caps hub contains information and resources to help you understand which fuel cap best matches up to your car and how to fit it properly.
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Find Your Replacement Fuel Cap
Search NowSearch using your car’s reg number and we’ll present you with an MOT-compliant option that meets the highest standards, having been produced in an accredited factory.
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Replacing Your Car’s Fuel Cap
Find Out MoreLooking to learn more about picking the correct replacement cap? Then start here. Our comprehensive hub of guides will keep you on track.
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Fuel Caps – By Make and Model
Find Out MoreDon’t have your reg to hand, or buying for someone else? Our guide and tool will identify the best choices, so you can order the right fit with confidence.
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Fuel Cap Fitting Guide
Find Out MoreRegardless of which type your car uses, our guide will explain how to install your new fuel cap step-by-step, saving you time and effort.
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Fuel Cap FAQs
Find Out MoreStill have questions or need more support? Our comprehensive FAQ section includes detailed answers about our products, company, and more.
