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Honda Element Fuel Tank Caps

Honda Element Fuel tank caps

Starting at $13.95, AutoBuffy stocks 2 fuel tank caps from SKP and ACDelco to fit your Honda Element. The fuel tank cap seals the filler neck, maintains evaporative emission system pressure, and prevents fuel vapors from escaping. A failed cap triggers the check engine light, causes fuel odor, and can reduce fuel economy by allowing vapors to vent instead of recirculate.

Signs your Honda Element needs a new fuel tank cap

  • Check engine light is on and a scan tool returns an EVAP system leak code (commonly P0455 or P0457)
  • Smell of raw gasoline near the rear of the vehicle, especially after filling up
  • Visible cracks, chips, or a damaged rubber gasket on the existing cap
  • Cap does not click or ratchet when tightened — it spins freely without locking
  • Failed emissions or OBD-II inspection due to an EVAP small or large leak code
  • Fuel economy has dropped slightly with no other obvious mechanical cause

Which fuel tank cap should you buy for your Honda Element?

The most important buying decision is fitment: thread pitch and filler-neck diameter must match your Honda Element exactly, so always confirm by year, make, and model before ordering. Beyond fitment, you are choosing between OE-replacement caps that restore factory pressure specs and locking caps that add theft deterrence.

OE-Replacement (standard)
Best for
Daily drivers needing a like-for-like fix
What you get
Correct thread pitch, factory pressure rating, fresh rubber gasket — clears EVAP codes
Locking fuel cap
Best for
Vehicles parked in high-traffic or public areas
What you get
Keyed barrel lock prevents fuel theft and tampering; still meets EVAP sealing specs
OEM / Dealer-sourced cap
Best for
Owners who want exact factory part with OEM part number
What you get
Guaranteed fit, may cost more; best when aftermarket options are limited for the Honda Element
High-pressure relief cap (tethered)
Best for
Older or performance vehicles with tethered-cap filler necks
What you get
Built-in tether prevents losing the cap; pressure-relief valve protects tank on vehicles with sealed systems

Fuel tank caps brands we stock for your Honda Element

SKP
1 option · from $13.95
ACDelco
1 option · from $24.95

Replacing the fuel tank cap on a Honda Element

Easy⏱ Under 10 minutesNew fuel tank cap (confirmed fitment for your Honda Element)Clean rag or gloves (to avoid skin contact with fuel residue)OBD-II scanner (optional, to clear EVAP codes after replacement)

Remove the old cap by turning it counterclockwise until it releases, then wipe any dirt or fuel residue from the filler neck opening. Thread the new cap onto the filler neck clockwise until it clicks, indicating the pressure seal is engaged. If the check engine light was on, use an OBD-II scanner to clear the code, or allow a few drive cycles for the Honda Element to clear it automatically.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to replace fuel tank caps on a Honda Element?
A replacement fuel tank cap for a Honda Element starts at $13.95 at AutoBuffy. It is one of the least expensive fixes in the fuel system. Most owners replace it themselves in under five minutes, so there is typically no labor cost unless a shop diagnoses the EVAP code for you.
Will a bad fuel tank cap cause the check engine light to come on?
Yes. A loose, cracked, or worn fuel tank cap is one of the most common triggers for EVAP system leak codes. The Honda Element's onboard diagnostic system monitors fuel vapor pressure; if the cap cannot hold a seal, the system logs a fault and illuminates the check engine light.
Can I drive my Honda Element with a bad or missing fuel tank cap?
You can drive short distances, but it is not recommended. Without a proper seal, fuel vapors escape into the atmosphere, which is an emissions violation. Dirt and debris can also enter the tank. A missing cap can eventually cause enough vapor loss to affect drivability and will keep the check engine light on.
Will replacing the fuel tank cap clear the check engine light on my Honda Element?
Replacing the cap stops the leak, but the check engine light may not clear immediately. The Honda Element's ECU needs to run one or more EVAP monitor drive cycles to confirm the fault is resolved. This can take a day or two of normal driving. You can also clear the code manually with an OBD-II scanner.
How do I know if the fuel tank cap fits my Honda Element?
Use the year, make, and model lookup on AutoBuffy to confirm fitment before purchasing. Thread pitch, filler-neck diameter, and whether your Honda Element uses a tethered or non-tethered cap all vary by application. Using an incorrect cap can cause persistent EVAP codes even after installation.
How long does a fuel tank cap last on a Honda Element?
Fuel tank caps typically last many years under normal conditions, but the rubber gasket inside degrades over time from heat, fuel vapor exposure, and repeated handling. Caps on vehicles in extreme climates or those that are frequently over-tightened tend to fail sooner. Inspect the gasket whenever you fill up.

Shop fuel tank caps by year for the Honda Element

201120102009200820072006200520042003

More parts for your Honda Element

Spare Tire Jack Handle / Wheel Lug WrenchPark Assist CameraAutomatic Transmission Oil Pressure SwitchExhaust Pipe Flange GasketStrut BellowsControl Arm Bushing KitA/C System O-Ring and Gasket KitEngine Cylinder Head Bolt Set

Fuel tank caps for other Honda models

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