If you have a Honda CR-V and the “Check Fuel Cap” message comes on, there are several causes and fixes.
This is a common error for a Honda CRV and is often fixable by many DIY car owners.
Often Honda CRV owners ignore the message, but it can be troubleshot and fixed.
Of course, if in doubt, be sure to take your Honda to a professional.
What is the Honda CRV “Check Fuel Cap” Error Message?
A “Check Fuel Cap” error message is given when the onboard computer sees a leak in the EVAP system.
This can be caused by a loose or bad gas cap or a leak in the EVAP system such as a bad hose or component.
The EVAP system stops gas vapors from escaping into the atmosphere, and was created to lower emissions.
An EVAP system has several components that work together to seal the vapors and feed them back into the engine to be burnt off.
If there is a leak in the EVAP system, the onboard computer (ECM) will send out the message “Check Fuel Cap.”
While a loose gas cap is the most common problem, any leak in the EVAP system can cause the error message to display.
Causes and Fixes Honda CRV “Check Fuel Cap” Message
- Gas Cap
- Purge Valve
- Vapor Charcoal Canister
- Hose Leak
A loose or bad gas cap is the most common cause and fixes for a Honda CRV with a “Check Fuel Cap” message.
The cap may be on tight, but some debris is blocking it, or the seal may no longer be working.
Examine the inlet and be sure there is nothing blocking the cap.
A new gas cap can be bought at an auto part store or online on Amazon.
If a new cap is ordered, be sure it is an original OEM Honda gas cap, as third-party replacements have been known to cause issues.
The purge valve is a part of the EVAP system and the component that feeds that gas vapors back into the engine to be burnt away.
It has a small valve that stays shut when the engine is off, so no vapors escape, and it opens when the engine is running, so the vapors go into the engine.
A bad purge valve is a common problem and is located at the top of the engine.
The air intake box in the Honda CRV often needs to be removed to gain access to the purge valve.
It is held on with two bolts, a harness, and two hoses with clamps.
Also, be sure to check the harness and wiring, as a bad connection can cause the same issue.
The vapor charcoal canister is also a part of the EVAP system and is located underneath the vehicle, close to the gas tank.
Often the canister will have a leak at one of the hoses, or a seal has failed and is leaking.
Replacing the canister is more involved and requires jacking the car up and removing several components.
The vapor charcoal canister also contains the vent valve which can also leak when it goes bad.
Any leak in a hose will also cause a problem and will need to be fixed.
A mechanic shop will use a smoke machine to feed smoke into the EVAP system and look for the smoke exiting.
Examine the hoses and check for any leaks or cracks that may be causing the issue.
What Does Check Fuel Cap Mean on Honda CRV?
The Check Fuel Cap message in a Honda CRV usually means the gas cap is loose or bad.
While a gas cap issue is the most common problem, it can also be a failure in the EVAP system.
How Long Does it Take for Check Fuel Cap Message to Reset?
A Check Fuel Cap message will usually clear once the car is driven for 5-10 miles.
The message should clear once the EVAP leak has been fixed and the CRV has gone through a drive cycle, which can vary depending on the year and engine.
Some drivers report the error message staying for 1-3 days and going away once the tank is filled with gas.
Is it Safe to Drive with a “Check Fuel Cap” Message on a Honda CRV?
Yes, it is safe to drive a Honda CRV with a “Check Fuel Cap” message.
The car may get lesser gas mileage and will not pass an emissions test, but usually, it will drive fine with no issues.
While the vehicle may not have any issues, it is recommended to get it fixed as soon as possible.
Summary
A Honda CRV with a “Check Fuel Cap” warning message is a common issue.
The warning is usually the gas cap but it can also be any bad component in the EVAP system.
Most mechanic shops will use a smoke machine to find any bad components or leaks and repair the car.
Each part of the EVAP system can be examined for any failures or leaks and, if found, replaced or repaired.
Have you had an issue with a Honda CRV “Check Fuel Cap” message? Let us know your thoughts below.