Unsure of the purpose of the car with screw warning light on the dashboard? Depending on the circumstances, this dashboard light may reveal a serious issue.
You can get all the information you need on this dashboard warning light in this post.
What Does Car With Screw Warning Light Mean?
This symbol is for the gas cap. Once it displays, it indicates that the gasoline/fuel cap is not correctly tightened.
The reasons could be loose/over-tightened or no fuel gas cap, broken filler neck, or filthy fuel filter.
The gas cap plays the role of a protective shield, keeping dust, rain, and other objects from getting into the tank while preventing fuel from vaporizing.
Suppose your gas indicator light comes on; it can be due to the reasons below.
Absent Fuel Cap
When your mind is distracted or rushed, a cap may go missing. The fuel tank won’t be pressurized without the fuel cap. If the gasoline cap is missing, the engine could sustain possible damage.
While some are concerned about fuel leaks, pollutants pose a greater threat. Making sure the gasoline cap is secure might avoid problems and turn off the fuel warning light.
Loose Fuel Cap
A loose cap is the main culprit when the check fuel cap warning light illuminates.
Gas flow is guaranteed, and huge vacuum leaks are prevented by the vacuum pressure. For an engine to have a proper operation, the cap must be secure.
Rubber seals will damage fuel caps and put the tank system of the vehicle at risk.
The gasoline does not receive the crucial pressure. As a result, the vehicle’s performance is equally unpredictable.
Too-Tight Fuel Cap
Another reason for the alert sensor light to come on is that the cap is excessively tight. The required vacuum pressure enables fuel to flow from the fuel tank to the motor.
Once the cap is sealed too tightly, the rubber seal under it may be damaged.
Thus, making sure you close the fuel cap correctly to avoid this problem and costly maintenance.
When you notice there’s something wrong with the rubber seal, bring it to a service department to have a check-up.
Broken Filler Neck
The gasoline tank filler tube directs the gas into your gas tank. Let’s say you find no issue with the cap; the filler neck may be the problem.
If this is the case, fumes escaping from the gasoline tank through the crack will cause your caution check engine light to stay on even after the gas caps are properly closed.
The fuel filler tube might need to be replaced to stop further harm. Since a mechanic is required, this form of auto repair is unfortunately expensive.
Dirty Fuel Filter Cap O-Ring Seal
This fuel advanced system must be completely sealed off from outside air to function correctly and prevent leaks.
Most fuel caps feature a rubber O-ring to stop vapors from escaping when the cap is tightened.
If this part is clogged and dirty, it will be defective, making your cap unable to close properly.
This may lead to no pressure in your vehicle’s evaporative emission system (or EVAP system), causing potential EVAP leaks, which could eventually harm the engine.
When there’s a leak, the Check Fuel Fill Inlet engine warning light may come up, check this post to know more details about this light.
How To Reset Car With Screw Warning Light
Follow the steps below to get your gas cap warning light setting reset.
Step 1: Shut off the motor of your auto. If your car has a locking fuel door, push the button to unlock it.
Step 2: Take the gas cap handle and turn it in the opposite direction of the clock.
Step 3: Put the gas cap back on. By taking it out and putting it back in, you can ensure the thread seals correctly if necessary. To tighten the gas cap, turn it counterclockwise. Keep rotating until hearing it click three times. This guarantees that it will sit properly.
Step 4: Head back to the cabin. Start the car and go for a drive. The car’s OBD-II system will automatically reset the dashboard indicator light.
Step 5: Given that your check engine light is still on, utilize an OBD-II error code reader. Connect it to the port located behind the steering wheel. Press the Reset option on the reader to restart the diagnostic system.
Step 6: Drive the car as you normally would. Keep an eye on the gas cap light. Suppose it still illuminates; there might be a problem with the gas cap. It would be best to visit a repair service center and get it replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take For Gas Cap Light To Go Off?
Your fuel warning light will be gone in about 10 to 20 miles of getting back on the road. Suppose it doesn’t; this may signify other issues with your vehicles, such as a broken cap or cracked filler tube.
In this case, you should bring your car to a repair shop to get it checked and have replacements if needed.
Can I Drive Without A Fuel Cap?
Technically, you can. Unlike when driving without an oil cap, both the engine and the fuel in your automobile are safe from damage by a gas tank without a cap.
This is because a flapper valve on autos normally stops fuel from seeping out.
The cover, however, serves as a barrier against mud or debris fragments that could harm the engine if it were left open.
How Long Can A Fuel Cap Last?
The typical lifespan of your fuel cap is between 40,000 and 50,000 miles, depending on usage.
However, it will survive longer if properly taken care of. Your gasoline cap must be frequently cleaned and examined if you want it to last longer.
How Often Should I Replace My Fuel Cap?
You only need to replace the fuel cap once it wears off and is unusable, often after 50,000 miles. Still, in case it does before this mark, you will need to replace it to maintain your car in good condition.
Also, you won’t need to worry about the price since it is relatively reasonable, from $10 to $13.
The Bottom Line
Now that you know what the car with screw warning light on the dashboard is for.
Keep in mind that your fuel tank must be appropriately shut off for the engine oil pressure to transfer fuel to the car’s engine.
This will keep your car in good condition, prevent damage, and increase your safety while driving.