Like all other cars, the fuel cap on your Audi serves to protect your gas tank from any foreign substances getting into the tank. Although issues with fuel caps can often be overlooked as a simple problem, they can have serious effects on your Audi if not treated properly.

The fuel cap is just one of many reasons your engine warning light can come on. It is always important to make sure that you’re taking the proper steps to ensure that the issue is dealt with right away.

Pull Over and Inspect the Problem

If you see the engine warning light in your Audi illuminate, it is important that you first pull over and try to diagnose the problem. You may have forgotten to replace the cap at the gas station or it could simply be not seated correctly.

You will know if your fuel cap is tightly sealed when you hear an audible click. This click will notify you that you have tightened your cap and you’re ready to go. If you do not hear the click, it might mean that you have a broken seal on your fuel cap.

A broken cap can happen over time since fuel caps are regularly taken off and put back on every time you refuel. It can also happen if you do not reseal the fuel cap on the opening of your tank. It is also important to note that you should not over-tighten your fuel cap either, because it can also result in damages to the fuel cap.

What Other Problems Can Occur?

Although your Audi has a built-in valve that will stop any fuel from coming out of your tank, there are still fumes that can seep through the loose fuel cap. This problem can lead to other major issues down the line. Since these fumes leaking out of your tank are flammable, a fire could start if you keep driving, causing a dangerous situation for you and your passengers.

You can also run into a problem with gas mileage. It is estimated that if you ignore the problem of a loose or broken gas cap, you could lose over 30 miles per gallon a year. This is caused because the seal is not tight enough and these gas vapors are escaping, taking with them some of the fuel for your Audi’s engine.

Environmentally, leaving your fuel cap loose can result in the development of smog, as the evaporates mix with other combustible gases in the ozone layer. In certain states in the U.S., your Audi will not pass inspection and will not be allowed on the roads until proper repairs have been made. Due to the above, it’s important to ensure that your fuel cap is tightened each time you take it off.

Master Mechanics is at Your Service

Your Audi is in good hands with our mechanics here at Master Mechanics Auto Repair. We proudly service all Audi and other European, Asian, and domestic cars. We are eager to help customers in and around the communities in Battle Creek, Portage, and Kalamazoo, MI and the surrounding areas.

We specialize in electronic diagnostics and will also assist you with tune ups, brake service, exhaust and muffler repair and replacement, electric car service and maintenance, repair and rebuild of engines, transmissions repair, oil changes, air conditioning servicing, heating and cooling repair, steering and suspension services, and make quick work of tire rotations, struts and shocks replacements, and more!

Our expert technicians are ASE-trained and work with state-of-the-art equipment. We pride ourselves in consistently bringing you reliable and trustworthy services in any one of our three locations.

To schedule an appointment with one of our expert technicians, call us at (269) 373-9000 or book your convenient appointment on our website. You can also stop by and speak with our friendly technicians. We look forward to becoming your one-stop repair shop for all your Audi’s service and maintenance needs. Allow us to earn your business by stopping by today with any question or concerns you have about your vehicle. We are eager to get you back on the road safely so you can drive with confidence in your car.