Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Fuel Cap Warning Message
The PCM detects a loose or missing fuel fill cap as an evaporative system leak, and alerts the driver by showing a warning message in the gauge display.
The first time a leak is detected, a TIGHTEN FUEL CAP (multi-information display model) (CHECK FUEL CAP (odometer/outside temperature display model)) message appears on the gauge display (A). To scroll to another message, press the select/reset button. The TIGHTEN FUEL CAP/CHECK FUEL CAP message appears each time you restart the engine until the system turns the message off. Turn the engine off, then replace or tighten the fuel fill cap until it clicks at least once.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.