Fuel Cap Tight

[Lancer1993]

Yesterday when I filled up I noticed the fuel cap was really tight, I've actually noticed it's always seemed to tight. Been driving cars for 20 plus years and never had this issue before.

Took a bit of force and 2 hands to get it off.

It was around midday, temp was about 30 and humid here in QLD and the 2nd low fuel warning had just came on if it makes a difference? This is on a MY09 VRX and I haven't put on an Allow lid but still considering it.

Suggestions, do I need a new cap?

[aspir3]

You can try a new cop. Normally they should last the life time of the car. They are designed to allow a good vacuum, which does make them harder to undo. You could be getting weaker in your old age too.

It would be a good idea to check other members cars on a cruise as they will be in the same conditions

I am not a fan of aluminium looking doors.

[Lancer1993]

I'm considering going to the workshop think on the 13th of March.

I like the look of alloy door and being real and not just a sticker you see on some cars.

[SAM-24A]

An Alloy Fuel Lid isn't going to solve your problem.

Your problem is with the "tight" Fuel Cap .... that's the part that screws into the Fuel Tank orifice.

You'll find a Rubber O-Ring at the base of the Cap that acts as a Seal.
This could be Very Dry & causing the tightness.


Try applying a very light lick of "Rubber Grease" to the Rubber O-Ring Seal & the White Plastic Threads.

Rubber Grease @ SuperCheap Auto $10.99

[Lancer1993]

I'll give it a go, but it's tight most of the way, like when you try putting the wrong cap on a bottle.

Will Vaseline also work?

I just think the alloy caps look cool, as long as they don't make you look like a cock.

[aspir3]

replacing the O'ring regularly is a good idea.

[Lancer1993]

Like I said I don't think the O ring is the issue as it's tight most of the way on and off.

I'll try the grease stuff but if needed about how much is a filler cap?

[aspir3]

Sounds like the thread is damaged. Did you drop it?
Have a good look at the thread

[Lancer1993]

Have had a look at the thread yesterday while filling the car and it looked ok plus the plastic strap is still attached so I've never dropped it. Doesn't mean the last owner didn't screw it up some how. Will take a closer look later and get that grease. Might call Mitsy to get a price on a replacement.

[SAM-24A]

You'll probably get a Filler Cap from a wrecker for $5

[Lancer1993]

Not many CJs at the wreckers here.

[Lancer1993]

FYI the Mitsy price... $56.15!

[Lancer1993]

So gave it another go this afternoon when it was much cooler, car parked in garage, and it was much easier so heat might have played a part. That said I'll get that grease and make sure its lubricated. When in doubt lubricate!

[sarusa]

Better late then never and worth keeping in mind by all. Ask your local petrol station where you normally fill up if he has one.
They quite often have a draw full of them that have been left behind by careless drivers.

Not sure but are these a standard size?

[mmjjee]

Just on the alloy fuel door..
I bought one from eBay for about $90 non-genuine
Too start with, it didn't fit properly and currently sits at a bit of an angle. The metal finish on it isn't very good either.
I'm planning on painting mine black or just putting the original one back on.

Genuine ones go for over $300 I believe