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How many times should you click a gas cap?

Many manufacturers recommend tightening the fuel cap until it clicks three times, which is just a random number to make sure the cap is tight.

providencejournal.com - Car Doctor: How tight should a fuel cap be?

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By John Paul

Special to The Journal

Q: The "check fuel cap" started showing up recently on the instrument panel of my 2014 Honda CRV-EX. I always tighten the fuel cap as much as possible after refueling but the light still comes on. I did notice that the fuel cap seemed to be not as tight the next time I filled up. I replaced the fuel cap with a genuine Honda fuel cap (purchased from dealer and not cheap) and I still get "check fuel cap" light the next day after refueling. Also, the fuel cap does not seem to be as tight as when I tightened it after refueling. How many clicks should I tighten the fuel cap? Is there something else going on with the system? The car runs great (light on or off) and I have had no other issues with the car. I purchased the CRV new and it now has 106,000 miles on it. A: The "check fuel cap" message will illuminate when there is a leak in the evaporative emissions system (EVAP). This can be caused be a loose fuel cap. Many manufacturers recommend tightening the fuel cap until it clicks three times, which is just a random number to make sure the cap is tight. At this point — even though the engine will run fine — it would be best to bring the car into have it looked at. Possible issues are the EVAP solenoid valve, the EVAP fuel vent module, or even a faulty damaged fuel filler pipe.

Q: I am leasing a 2020 Hyundai Kona, which I love. However, I tried washing the windows with Windex with Vinegar. The windows do not come clean; they just smudge even after a car wash. What can I do?

A: This is typical of newer vehicles. The smudgy film is from outgassing of the foam and plastics that are used for the interior of the car. I have found a foamy style cleaner like Stoner Products Invisible Glass or Sprayway (preferred by my wife) and plenty of paper towels. Once you are satisfied the window is clean, go over it again with a good quality microfiber cloth. Sometimes it takes a couple of cleanings. It is my experience that this outgassing never goes away completely but does subside somewhat. I agree, the Kona is a great vehicle that is just the right fit for many drivers. Q: I have a 2015 Nissan Rogue with a problem that two Nissan dealerships cannot find or solve. Frequently — but never at the dealership of course — when I shift into park, it sounds like air is surging into the engine and the RPMs jump to 3,000 or 4,000, then go back down. Sometimes just pressing the button on the shift lever will cause the engine to surge a little just before it jumps up as I shift.

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Could a vacuum leak have anything to do with this unnerving problem?

A: A vacuum leak is a possibility, but I would expect it to be more consistent and not as dramatic. At this point you need to start with basic diagnostics. This includes everything from monitoring scan tool data to wiggling, shaking wiring connections and checking power and ground circuits. Finding an intermittent issue is certainly one of the most difficult for any automotive technician. Sometimes it is time that finds the problem, other times — just like medical professionals — you need to use the hypothetico-deductive method. This method uses results obtained through observation (direct or indirect) so a scientific theory can be compiled. Then that answer can be verified or disproved.

Q: When should I get my 2014 Toyota RAV4 (2014) serviced? I have been doing it every 3,000 miles or every 3 months, whichever comes first. I also have a 2009 Toyota Corolla with 104,000 miles on it. What about that car?

A: I always defer to the vehicle owner's manual. In the case of the RAV4, every 10,000 miles or once per year, whichever comes first. In the case of the Corolla, every six months or 5,000 miles, whichever comes first. You will not cause any harm changing the oil sooner. What is most important is frequently checking the oil level. Even the best engine will burn (use) oil in between oil changes. John Paul is the AAA Northeast Car Doctor. He has more than 40 years of experience in the automobile industry and is an ASE-Certified Master Technician. Write to John Paul, The Car Doctor, at 110 Royal Little Drive, Providence, RI 02904. Or email [email protected] and put “Car Doctor” in the subject field. Follow him on Twitter @johnfpaul or on Facebook.

providencejournal.com - Car Doctor: How tight should a fuel cap be?

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