What Does a Check Fuel Fill Inlet Warning Mean?

Your vehicle’s computer can give out warnings about certain issues from time to time. Aside from an illuminated check engine light, there are other telltale signs that indicate problems on your vehicle’s dashboard. One of which is an activated “check fuel fill inlet” warning.

Before discussing what the fuel fill inlet warning light means, let’s first discuss what a fuel fill inlet is.

What Is a Fuel Fill Inlet?

The fuel fill inlet is the entry point for gasoline or diesel when you gas up your car. This includes your gas cap and the inlet pipe that connects it to your ride’s gas tank.

What Is a Check Fuel Fill Inlet Warning?

This warning can indicate an issue with your vehicle’s gas cap. If your car has a capless fuel system, it can indicate the fuel fill inlet isn’t closed properly.

The fuel cap is a crucial part of your ride’s evaporative emissions (EVAP) system. If it’s loose or damaged, it can cause fuel vapor leaks and other problems within the EVAP system.

Why Is a Sealed Gas Cap Important?

A sealed gas cap helps prevent harmful fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. Without a check fuel fill inlet warning light, you risk driving your vehicle around with a loose gas cap. This can cause problems within the fuel system, so it’s best to have your ride inspected right away once you notice that the check fuel fill inlet light is on.

What to Do When the Check Fuel Fill Inlet Warning Light Is On

Inspect the Gas Cap

Check your gas cap. The check fuel fill inlet warning light might indicate a leak or a problem within the EVAP system, but it can also mean that you just didn’t seal your gas cap tightly enough.

You can also remove your gas cap and put it back again to make sure it’s tightened correctly.  Keep an eye out for cracks on the cap as well.

Inspect the Fuel Fill Inlet

Some vehicles have a capless fuel system. In such a scenario, you’re going to need a flashlight to check the inside and outside of the inlet. The video below demonstrates what the warning can potentially indicate on some vehicles.

If you don’t find anything, you’re probably dealing with a much bigger problem. Talk to your trusted mechanic or take a trip to the nearest automotive shop for an accurate diagnosis.

Reasons Why Your Check Fuel Fill Inlet Warning Is Triggered

Let’s look at some of the most common reasons why your check fuel fill inlet warning is on:

Missing Gas Cap

If you notice that the check fuel fill inlet warning is on minutes after refueling, pull over to check your gas cap. There’s a big chance you forgot to put back the cap after fueling up at the gas station. It’s also a good time to check if your gas cap is tightened correctly.

Issues with the Fuel Filler Inlet

Some vehicles have a capless fuel system. When that’s the case, you might be dealing with an issue with the fuel filler inlet itself.

Debris at Gas Cap

Too much dirt build-up in the fuel cap might trigger the check fuel fill inlet warning. Dirt anywhere in your fuel system will cause issues in the long run. So if you notice dirt or any debris on your fuel cap, clean it right away to avoid further damage.

EVAP Leak

A leak in the EVAP system would indicate that you’re releasing a lot of fuel vapors to the environment. A broken or damaged gas cap can lead to leaks in your EVAP system, so replace your cap right away once you notice any form of damage.

Your vehicle will usually give out EVAP-related on-board diagnostic codes if it detects this type of issue. Error codes P0455 and P0456 are examples of OBD codes related to leaks in the EVAP system.

Is Driving with an Active Check Fuel Fill Inlet Warning Dangerous?

Technically, you can still drive your vehicle even if the check fuel fill inlet warning light is on.

But why take that risk?

The check fuel fill inlet warning light should be taken seriously because it could mean that there is a problem within the system. Remember that it can mean that there are leaks within the EVAP system.

Here are some of the things that can happen if you don’t take a trip to an auto repair shop as soon as you spot the activated warning light:

• Your vehicle might suffer from fuel vapor leaks.
• You might spend more money on other more complicated EVAP system issues.

Don’t ignore the warning lights on your dashboard. Address them right away to stay safe on the road and keep your car in tip-top shape for a long time.

Check your vehicle’s systems regularly for any faults to avoid costly repairs in the future. Commit to your ride’s regular maintenance schedule and replace any faulty component right away to keep your vehicle running like it’s fresh off the showroom!