Why does my Pontiac Grand Prix say check gas cap?

Why does my Pontiac Grand Prix say check gas cap?

Problem Description Illumination of the check engine light may be the result of a loose or worn gas cap.

Are gas caps vehicle specific?

Yes they are, all cars and SUV’s have a universal gas tank cap size. Just because all gas caps fit every car, does not mean that the car’s sensors will work with every gas cap. The cap has to seal tight and cars from different makers have different size specs.

What do you do if you lose your gas cap?

Dealing with a lost gas cap is very simple. If you find yourself miles from your nearest auto parts store, where fuel caps are available to purchase, you can quickly stop up the fuel filler with a rag. This will prevent both gas and gasoline fumes from escaping your tank until you can buy a replacement.

Do gas caps need to be replaced?

The gas cap, also known as the fuel filler cap, is a simple but important component that is found on the vast majority of road going cars and trucks. Because the cap is frequently removed, every time fuel is added to the vehicle, it can wear out over time and will need to be replaced.

How tight should a fuel cap be?

Many manufacturers recommend tightening the fuel cap until it clicks three times, which is just a random number to make sure the cap is tight. At this point — even though the engine will run fine — it would be best to bring the car into have it looked at.

What happens if your gas cap doesn’t click?

In most cases, the reason the gas cap does not click is due to damage on some part of the gas cap. There are a few other parts but they don’t impact the caps ability to secure onto the gas tank. If the parts above that will cause the gas cap to not “click” are damaged, the gas cap will need to be replaced.

How do you fix a gas cap that won’t click?

Step 1: Inspect the gas cap for damage on the gasket: The quickest way to troubleshoot a gas cap that won’t click is to remove and inspect the gas cap gasket. To remove this gasket, simply use a flat blade screwdriver to pry the gasket over the gas cap housing and remove the gasket.

Why won’t my gas cover open?

Whether it’s due to an internal spring, lack of lubrication, a bent fuel door or problems with the activator lever of button inside the vehicle, there are a few ways you can troubleshoot what’s causing this problem, so that you can contact a local professional mechanic and have the damaged gas cap cover repaired.

How often should you replace your fuel cap?

The gas cap is used all of the time, which means that you will have to get the cap replaced eventually. The gas cap can last up to 50,000 miles and in some cases longer if it is properly cared for. Not having this type of protection in regards to the gas supply in a car can lead to a variety of different issues.

Is replacing a gas cap easy?

Modern automotive fuel systems require a complete seal of the gas tank. A cracked cap or missing seal permits fuel evaporation, costing motorists money. Purchasing a replacement gas cap is simple; visit your local automotive parts retailer with your vehicle’s make and model year to receive the matching O.E.M.

How do you reset check engine light after loose gas cap?

How to Reset the Warning Light Gas Cap That Is Loose or Missing

1. Turn off your vehicle’s engine.
2. Step to the gas cap door.
3. Replace the gas cap.
4. Close the gas cap door.
5. Use an OBD-II code scanner if the warning light does not disappear.
6. Continue driving the vehicle.