fuel

Fuel Cap

for 2017 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Coyote · RWD

Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years · Jeff Moore — Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years

Difficulty

Easy

Time

6 min

Tools

Steps

✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the fuel cap on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with 5.0L V8 Coyote engine.

Warnings

⚠Ensure the fuel cap is properly seated and clicks to prevent fuel vapor leaks and check engine light codes

ℹ️The fuel cap is tethered to the fuel door and should remain attached during replacement

Tools required

Clean rag

Parts

Fuel cap assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or equivalent with tether

Preparation

Park vehicle on level ground and turn off engine
Allow fuel system to normalize to atmospheric pressure if vehicle was recently driven
Open fuel door by pressing the release button on the driver's side lower dash or by pressing the fuel door itself depending on trim level

Procedure

1
Remove existing fuel cap
Turn the fuel cap counterclockwise until it releases from the fuel filler neck. The cap will click and ratchet when turning, continue turning past the first click until it fully disengages. Keep the tethered cap attached to the fuel door holder.
2
Inspect fuel filler neck seal area
Inspect the fuel filler neck opening for debris, damage, or corrosion. Wipe the sealing surface clean with a rag if any dirt or contaminants are present. Check the condition of the rubber seal inside the filler neck for cracks or deterioration.
3
Disconnect tether if replacing cap
If replacing the fuel cap assembly, disconnect the tether from the fuel door holder by pressing the release tab on the tether anchor and sliding it out of the holder bracket. Note the orientation for installation of the new tethered cap.
4
Attach new fuel cap tether
Connect the new fuel cap tether to the fuel door holder by inserting the tether anchor into the bracket until it clicks into place. Verify the tether is securely attached by gently pulling on it.
5
Install new fuel cap
Align the fuel cap with the filler neck opening and turn clockwise until you hear at least three distinct clicks. This ensures proper seating and sealing of the cap to prevent evaporative emissions system faults.

Reassembly

Close the fuel door by pressing firmly until it latches securely
If a check engine light was present due to a loose or faulty fuel cap, it may take several drive cycles for the code to clear automatically

Verification

Verify the fuel cap clicks at least three times when tightening to ensure proper torque
Confirm the tether is securely attached and allows full cap removal without excessive tension
Check that the fuel door closes and latches properly
Monitor for fuel odors or check engine light codes related to evaporative emissions system (P0440, P0455, P0456) over the next few days of driving

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