BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Choose the Right Replacement Gas Cap

By eHow Cars Editor

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A gas cap seems insignificant as far as automobile parts go, but it's a key part of your automobile's emission control system. Choosing the right replacement cap helps everyone breathe easier.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Automotive Repair Manual
Gas Caps

Step1

Bring your car's year, make, and model with you to the auto parts store.

Step2

Check a reference manual or a supply store's computer database for the type of cap your car needs.

Step3

Select the type of gas cap specified. Don't substitute another kind, even if it looks and feels OK.

Tips & Warnings

Don't drive around without a gas cap - it's unsafe for you, your car, and the environment.
The closed-fuel system of a new car reduces pollution by forcing vapors into a recovery canister. Pick the wrong cap, and you'll end up with vapors escaping. A snug feel is not enough. Even a gas cap that goes on readily and doesn't wiggle can have an imperfect seal.

Comments

shellydintexas said

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on 8/22/2008 Does it affect the gas mileage? Doese it evaporate if it's not the right one?

Anonymous said

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on 1/25/2006 Although they are sold at a lower price, auto parts store gas caps are not always the best choice for today's computer-controlled cars. If an aftermarket gas cap does not seal absolutely perfect all the time, it could cause the "check engine" light to come on. That is an automatic failure at inspection time. I support my local parts stores, but something like this should come from the dealer. Happy motoring!