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Gene Messer Toyota welcomes you to learn what the signs of a defective gas cap are.
The first symptom of bad gas caps is likely going to be a gas cap that is loose or a gas cap that won’t tighten completely. This may not seem important right away, but without an air-tight seal, the entire fuel system can be contaminated with dirt and grime. If your gas cap is not fitting properly, try checking the gasket to be sure it isn’t missing or brittle. If you own an old car, be sure the metal gas cap is not bent or damaged. Both a bad seal or bent gas cap can cause gas cap problems and may even require a replacement from the manufacturer.
What problems can a loose gas cap cause? How about a check engine light for starters? An ill-fitting gas cap will not only let in dirt and grime, but it can also allow fuel vapors to escape. These fuel vapors could produce errors in the emissions system, which could light up the check engine light. Grime that seeps into the gas tank may also contaminate fuel injectors. Perhaps the biggest sign of a faulty gas cap is the smell of gasoline in your car.
These days you may see no gas cap on new cars, but if your car, truck, or SUV was not constructed with a capless gas tank, you shouldn’t drive without a gas cap installed. If your vehicle is older, there is a chance that gas could leak out from the tank during hard corners or other enthusiastic driving. Driving your car without a gas cap could lead to diminished fuel economy because the gasoline might evaporate without a fully-sealed gas tank. The smell is the fuel evaporating from the fuel tank, which causes reduced gas mileage.
If you have already inspected the gas cap, the problems you are having may be caused by contaminated fuel. If the car has problems starting, will not accelerate, or just isn’t running correctly, then you might just have bad gas.
If your vehicle doesn’t feel normal and you are not sure if it has a bad gas cap or just bad fuel, bring it here, and our experienced service technicians will diagnose the issue and help you fix the problem.
Gene Messer Toyota is one of the most trusted places for vehicle repair in the Lubbock area. We happily service all vehicle makes and models. One of our factory-trained technicians will inspect your vehicle for any necessary repairs and suggest the best resolution for you and your vehicle. Schedule your Toyota service in person or online today.
