How long does a gas cap last?

The fuel that is in your gas tank is used to power your vehicle and to supply the material needed for the combustion process. Making sure the gas in the tank stays the right consistency is important when working…

The fuel that is in your gas tank is used to power your vehicle and to supply the material needed for the combustion process. Making sure the gasoline in the tank stays the right consistency is important for driving. The job of the gas tank cap is to keep debris or water out of the fuel system through the filler neck. The gas tank cap screws into the top of the filler neck and is sealed to keep debris out. The gas cap is used all the time, which means you will eventually have to replace the cap.

A gas cap can last up to 50,000 miles, and in some cases longer, if properly cared for. Lack of this type of protection regarding the gas supply in the car can lead to many different problems. If the gas tank cap is letting debris and dirt into the gas supply system, this will usually result in a clogged fuel filter. A bad fuel filter will restrict the flow of gasoline, which means it will be very difficult for the car to drive normally.

The best way to detect gas cap damage is to inspect it regularly. You will usually be able to tell if the gas cap is damaged, and fixing it in a hurry can lessen the damage it can cause. There are many different types of gas caps and choosing the right replacement will take some time and effort on your part.

When the gas cap needs replacing, here are some things you may notice:

• The check engine light is on
• The seal on the gas cap is visibly damaged
• The thread on the gas tank cap is worn or stripped
• Lost gas cap

Installing a new gas cap on your vehicle will help reduce the amount of debris that can get into your fuel tank. Asking a professional for advice on which type of gas cap to choose can reduce the chance of making a mistake.