What Does the Check Fuel Fill Inlet Warning Mean? | How To Fix Check Fuel Fill Inlet Light?

The dashboard of your vehicle contains numerous warning indicators that inform you when something needs attention. Understanding and keeping an eye out for these dashboard warning indicators is crucial, as they are designed to alert drivers to potential issues. Washer fluid light, transmission warning light, check engine light, and tire pressure light are the most common warning lights. But some drivers are not familiar with the check fuel fill inlet warning message on their Fords. This article explains the check fuel fill inlet message meaning, causes, and how to reset it.

What Does the Check Fuel Fill Inlet Message Mean?

The check fuel fill inlet warning message means that there is something wrong with your evaporative emissions control system (EVAP) that is causing a leak. This leak may be caused due to a loose fuel cap or contamination that needs to be cleaned.

The Evaporative Emission Control System or EVAP system of your vehicle is responsible for preventing gasoline vapors from releasing from the gas tank. EVAP systems have become mandatory on all gasoline-powered vehicles since the 1970s and consist of multiple parts.

If you see a “check fuel fill inlet” warning light on your dashboard, the first step is to remove the fuel cap and then properly tighten it. If this simple fix does not resolve the problem, it is recommended to replace the fuel cap. It is highly likely that the fuel cap is the culprit in this scenario.

What is a Fuel Fill Inlet?

The “fuel fill inlet” represents the part of the vehicle where fuel is added. The fuel fill inlet has an inlet pipe and a gas cap.

The inlet pipe is connected directly to the fuel tank. It is an essential part of your car, as it allows you to fill the tank with the necessary fuel to operate.

For instance, when you are at a fuel station, the fuel fill inlet is where you insert the fuel pump nozzle and fill the vehicle’s fuel tank with fuel. This area consists of the gas cap cover and an inlet pipe that leads into the car’s fuel tank.

Causes of Check Fuel Fill Inlet Message

The vehicle computer usually triggers the check fuel fill inlet message due to one or more of the below-given reasons:

• Loose Fuel Cap
• Faulty Purge Valve
• Fuel Cap Over-tightened
• Dirt and Debris
• Fuel Cap Missing
• Vacuum Pressure Leak
• Fuel Door Issues
• Faulty FTP Sensor
• Damaged Fuel Cap
• EVAP System Leak

1) Loose Fuel Cap

A loose fuel cap is one of the major causes of the check fuel fill inlet warning message. The fuel cap is installed on the fuel tank.

The fuel cap plays a crucial role in the EVAP system by preventing debris and dirt from going into the gas tank and stopping hazardous gases from escaping. It also helps to maintain the needed vacuum pressure seal for fuel to flow through the system.

When you don’t replace or put the fuel cap at the gas station, simply re-attaching it should turn off the warning light.

2) Faulty Purge Valve

It is one of the most important parts of the EVAP system. It assists in directing fuel vapors to the combustion chamber for combustion. When your purge valve goes bad, it may trigger a warning message. Check your purge valve and replace it if needed.

3) Fuel Cap Overtightened

Although it’s crucial to have a tight seal on the fuel cap, be cautious not to over-tighten your cap, as this may lead to issues with the fuel tank’s pressure level.

Over-tightening the cap could also damage the fuel cap or inlet’s seal, resulting in the check fuel inlet warning light illuminating on the dashboard.

4) Contaminants

Contaminants are another common factor contributing to the check fuel inlet warning message, particularly in cars with the capless seal. Stain accumulation and debris may become stuck between the walls and the spring-loaded lid, leading to an EVAP leak.

Despite being careful about car maintenance, many people overlook cleaning the fuel filler neck, the area where you fill up your fuel tank. It is an area that tends to accumulate dirt easily but rarely gets cleaned.

If your fuel inlet or filler neck becomes dirty, it may prevent the cap from sealing and cause other issues, ultimately leading to the “Check Fuel Fill Inlet” warning light appearing on the dashboard.

Additionally, allowing dirt to accumulate on the parts may cause parts to corrode or break down over time. To prevent these issues, it’s recommended to clean the parts using a rag while washing the vehicle.

6) Fuel Cap Missing

If you forget to put the gas cap back on the fuel tank, your check engine light may start to illuminate. A missing fuel cap may also trigger the “Check Fuel Fill Inlet” message on your vehicle’s dashboard.

Due to the latest sensors in the latest vehicle models, the absence of the cap will trigger a warning. While fuel spillage is not expected, the system should be closed, which is not the case with the cap open. To resolve the issue, simply re-attach the cap, and the problem should be fixed.

7) Vacuum Pressure Leak

Maintaining steady pressure within the gas tank is crucial to maintain a proper fuel supply to the fuel pump and engine.

If the pressure leaks anywhere in the fuel system, the fuel tank may generate a vacuum pressure seal around the gas cap. When the powertrain control module (PCM) of your vehicle detects this issue, it triggers the check fuel fill inlet warning message.

Read More: Vacuum Leak Symptoms and Causes

8) Fuel Door Issues

Some vehicle models, such as certain models of the Ford Explorer or Ford Flex, have capless fuel inlets. In such models, an open or loose fuel door can trigger the check fuel fill inlet warning light.

9) Faulty FTP Sensor

The latest vehicles contain a fuel pressure sensor that is used to find conditions that may specify leaks in the EVAP system and activates the warning lights. If the sensor itself is malfunctioning, it may also cause the check fuel inlet light to come on without any issue.

10) Damaged Fuel Cap

A faulty fuel cap may fail to maintain sufficient fuel pressure within the fuel tank of your vehicle, leading to pressure leakage and triggering the check fuel fill inlet warning light.

When this light starts to illuminate, park your vehicle and find the main issue. If there is no other problem, you need to replace the gas cap with a new one.

11) EVAP System Leak

A leaky EVAP system could trigger both the Check Fuel Fill Inlet message and the Check Engine Light. To diagnose the issue, use an OBD-II scanner for more information. The P0455 and P0456 codes both suggest the presence of an EVAP leak.

While such types of leaks may be produced by something as minor as a dirty or damaged fuel cap, it’s important not to rule out the possibility of a malfunctioning EVAP system part. Although an EVAP leak generally doesn’t result in significant vehicle problems, it should still be taken seriously and addressed promptly.

Read More: Causes of Transmission Warning Light Illumination

How to fix the Check Fuel Fill Inlet Message?

Follow the following steps to reset the check fuel fill inlet message:

• Inspect Gas Cap: Begin by making sure the fuel fill inlet is properly sealed. After parking the vehicle on a leveled surface, switch off your engine. Locate the fuel door and open it. The fuel fill inlet is located on the left or right side of your car, towards the rear. Check the area around the fuel fill inlet for a leak or damage.
• Inspect Purge Valve: Properly inspect the purge control valve. Your valve must be in good condition.
• Examine Gas Cap Seal: Look closely at the fuel cap seal. The seal of your fuel cap must be unbroken, free from wear or cracks, and the fuel cap should be in good condition. Remember that even a tiny crack may permit fuel to escape from the tank.
• Inspect Fuel Fill Inlet: Thoroughly inspect every part, both inside and outside. Check the dark areas using light and search for problems such as cracks, wear, and tears. As previously mentioned, an apparently insignificant tear can lead to considerable damage over time.
• Employ OBD-II Scanner: If the gas cap and fuel fill inlet appear to be in good condition, the only way to pinpoint the issue is by using an OBD-II scan tool. This device properly diagnoses the car and recovers stored codes that find errors with your vehicle.

How To Check the Fuel Fill Inlet of Your Car?

• First of all, park your vehicle in a leveled area and switch off the engine.
• Find the fuel fill inlet. This part is normally installed near the fuel tank.
• Check the area around the fuel fill inlet for signs of damage or leak.
• If this area is in good condition, properly check your fuel cap for damage.
• If your fuel fill inlet has damage, you need to fix it properly.
• If your fuel cap is faulty, you need to replace it.

How To Avoid Check Fuel Fill Inlet Warning? 

• Properly tighten the gas cap
• Keep the fuel filler neck clean
• Regularly inspect the gas cap
• Maintain the EVAP system
• Address warning messages promptly
• Schedule regular maintenance
• Seek professional help when necessary

Cost to Repair Check Fuel Fill Inlet Message

The repair or fixing cost of the check fuel fill inlet message varies according to the vehicle model, repair of the relevant part, and labor cost. The repair cost of the Check Fuel Fill Inlet message could be anywhere from $10 to $1,100+.

FAQ Section

How do I reset the check fuel fill inlet Message?

• Inspect the fuel cap; if it is loose, properly tighten it.
• If the fuel cap is missing, put the cap on the fuel tank
• If your fuel cap is over-tightened, loosen it and re-tight it.
• Remove the contaminants accumulated around the fuel fill inlet area.
• Repair the issues related to the fuel door.
• Fixing the vacuum pressure leaks
• Replace the damaged fuel cap
• Replace the faulty fuel tank pressure sensor
• Fixing the EVAP system leak
• Replace the faulty Purge Valve

Is the check fuel fill inlet bad?

Addressing the “Check Fuel Fill Inlet” warning message promptly is essential to prevent small problems from escalating into more significant problems. Being attentive to your car’s signals and responding quickly is a wise way to prolong its service life.

Can I drive with a check fuel fill inlet message?

While you can drive with the check fuel fill inlet warning message, doing so may result in increased fuel consumption. Moreover, being aware of the warning yet continuing to drive could damage your engine and possibly lead to an accident. If driving is compulsory, proceed slowly, avoiding sudden deceleration or acceleration. If possible, find a safe place and address the issue. `  

Where is the fuel fill inlet located?

The fuel fill inlet is the opening where you insert the fuel nozzle to add fuel to your vehicle’s fuel tank. For most cars, this inlet is concealed behind the fuel door, which must be opened to open the cap. It is attached to the gas tank through a pipe concealed within your vehicle’s chassis.

What is EVAP?

The Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) System plays a crucial role in preventing pollutants from the fuel system from escaping into the atmosphere. This system particularly becomes vital since fuel vapors contain a wide variety of hydrocarbons.

What is a fuel inlet restrictor?

A fuel inlet restrictor is designed to prevent leaded gasoline from being entered the vehicle designed for unleaded gasoline. If your vehicle has the ability to use both types of fuels, then inlet restrictors are connected. However, leaded fuel was eventually banned by the supervisory body, rendering this device needless, and manufacturers gradually phased it out. This means it is unlikely to be the cause of your issues.

Why do new cars have no gas cap?

Capless fuel systems aim to make refueling your car quicker and cleaner. When refueling your vehicle, the fuel enters the fuel tank through a valve that opens only as the pump nozzle is introduced, helping to stop gas fume evaporation, which may harm the atmosphere. But a capless fuel tank inlet can sometimes fail.

Can I put a cap on a capless gas tank inlet?

Depending on the vehicle’s make and model, you may be able to discover aftermarket fuel caps designed to fit on your vehicle’s capless fuel tank inlet. While you could make one yourself, but it might need some fundamental skills. However, purchasing a custom-made cap for the vehicle model is typically more convenient.

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