How to Check the Fuel Cap on a Mazda Tribute
by Cassandra Tribe
The Mazda Tribute comes with a warning light system in the dash that will notify you if something is wrong with your fuel cap. The Tribute uses a pressurized cap that directly effects the efficiency of your emissions system. The Tribute will detect a problem with the cap and illuminate the gas cap warning light. You can check the fuel cap on a Mazda Tribute easily. It only takes about 5 minutes.
Step 1
Turn the ignition on but do not start the car. Verify that your gas cap warning light is illuminated. Turn the ignition off.
Step 2
Open the hatch to access the fuel cap.
Step 3
Remove the fuel cap by pressing it in and turning it counterclockwise. You do not have to turn the cap far, only about an 1/8 of a turn to remove it.
Step 4
Reinstall the cap. Insert the cap into the filler pipe, press it in and turn it clockwise an 1/8 of a turn to seal it. Mazda Tribute caps are pressurized and very sensitive to a proper seal. Most often the gas cap warning light is triggered by improper installation of the cap. Try to rock the cap while it is in the locked position. If it moves at all, then remove it and install it again until it is firmly sealed in position.
Step 5
Turn your ignition on again. If your gas cap light has gone out, then your cap is fine. If your gas cap light is still illuminated, then you need to replace the gas cap, as damage to the cap is preventing it from making a proper seal.
References
- Mazda Tribute Service Manual; Haynes; California; 2007
Things You'll Need
- Ignition key
Writer Bio
Cassandra Tribe has worked in the construction field for over 17 years and has experience in a variety of mechanical, scientific, automotive and mathematical forms. She has been writing and editing for over 10 years. Her areas of interest include culture and society, automotive, computers, business, the Internet, science and structural engineering and implementation.
