If you drive a late model car, chances are, your gas cap is connected to your car by a little rubber tether. That's so if you happen to forget to replace it after you fill up, an indicator on your dashboard will let you know. (Or if your car doesn't have the indicator light, at least you won't lose your gas cap.)
But what if your car doesn't have any of this technology and you drive down the road with the gas cap off without ever realizing your error? Losing your gas cap is a minor annoyance, sure. You paid for that gas and you want it to stay where it belongs — in the gas tank. Sealing off the fuel tank with the gas cap helps your fuel system maintain proper pressure, which in turn helps your car operate smoothly. These are the primary purposes it serves.
Advertisem*nt
So can driving without one cause damage to your car? Probably not, but it can cause some minor issues:
- You might lose a little gas, more likely due to evaporation than to actual spillage, because the filler neck helps prevents sloshing. Any kind of gas loss harms the environment and costs you extra money. Not ideal, but not an immediate catastrophe.
- You might see a drop in your fuel economy numbers, which again, pollutes and is expensive.
- It's possible that debris or moisture could get into the gas tank, which isn't ideal but probably won't be catastrophic, either, since it should be caught by the fuel filter.
- Performance may be an issue. Some cars are programmed to operate in a "limp mode" when the check engine light is on, which allows you to continue driving at limited speed until you can stop safely to assess and correct the problem.
- If you live in a state with emissions inspections, your car won't pass the inspection until you replace the gas cap. But there's absolutely no reason you should drive without a gas cap long enough for this to become an issue.
The bottom line is the consequences of driving without a gas cap are insignificant and the solution is simple. Gas caps are easy and inexpensive to replace. You can purchase a replacement at a local auto parts store or online retailer, and you can determine which cap you need in your car's owner's manual. The parts department for your car dealership can help, too.
Now That's Interesting
Assuming your car has a check engine light, because most cars on the road today do, you'll likely see it illuminate just a few minutes after you leave the gas station if you drive off without your fuel cap. Some modern cars even have a fuel cap light. If either light stays on after you replace your gas cap, don't worry. You may need to drive for a while, even 100 miles (160 kilometers) or so, before your car's computer senses that everything's OK and the light resets.
Advertisem*nt
Gas/Fuel Cap FAQ
Is it bad to drive without a gas cap?
A cap-less gas tank doesn’t harm the engine nor does it let the fuel spill out of your car. That's because cars usually have a flapper valve that prevents fuel from leaking out. However, the cap acts as a shield against mud or dirt particles, which may damage the engine if it's left open.
Are fuel caps universal?
Most fuel caps are universal and can fit in any car or SUV. But there might be exceptions. Typically, fuel caps have a diameter of 55-57 mm or 58-60 mm including the threads.
What are the signs of a bad gas cap?
If your gas cap stays loose or you notice the smell of fuel come from your vehicle, the gas cap is probably not fitting well. Another sign is an illuminated “check engine light” that signals an ill-fitting (or nonexistent) gas cap.
How often should you replace your gas cap?
In general, they last for about 50,000 miles but may need an early replacement if they get damaged.
How much does it cost to replace a gas cap?
At AutoZone, you can buy a variety of gas caps for between $10 and $13.
