FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Ford/F-150/13th Generation (2015-2020)/why does my Ford F-150 check engine light come on after filling up gas

why does my Ford F-150 check engine light come on after filling up gas

Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium1-3 hours
3 min read
478 words

Problem Statement

Learn why your Ford F-150's check engine light comes on after refueling and how to fix it. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic and repair instructions.

Component
Fuel System
Repair Time
1-3 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before inspecting components related to fuel systems.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Fuel odor near the filler cap
  • •Difficulty starting the engine after refueling
  • •Fuel gauge malfunctioning or inaccurate readings
  • •Increased fuel consumption or poor fuel economy

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify specific issues.
  2. 2Inspect the gas cap for cracks, wear, or improper sealing.
  3. 3Check for any visible fuel leaks around the fuel filler neck and fuel lines.
  4. 4Verify the operation of the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system components.
  5. 5Test the fuel tank pressure using a pressure gauge to ensure it's within specifications.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is off.
  • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts.

2. Inspect and Replace Gas Cap

  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the existing gas cap.
    • Inspect the sealing surface and threads for damage.
    • If damaged, replace with a new gas cap (ensure it meets OEM specifications).
    • Reinstall the new gas cap, ensuring it clicks securely.

3. Check EVAP System Components

  • Sub-steps:
    • Locate the EVAP purge valve and vent valve (refer to service manual for exact locations).
    • Disconnect electrical connectors and inspect for damage.
    • Use a multimeter to test the electrical resistance of the valves.
    • Replace any faulty components.

4. Check Fuel Lines and Filler Neck

  • Sub-steps:
    • Visually inspect all fuel lines for cracks or leaks.
    • Inspect the filler neck for obstructions or damage.
    • If any issues are found, replace damaged lines or components.

5. Reconnect Battery and Clear Codes

  • Reconnect the battery terminals and ensure they are tight.
  • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear any existing error codes.
  • Start the engine and observe if the check engine light remains off.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Multimeter
  • Basic hand tools (socket set, screwdrivers)
  • Torque wrench

Parts Required

  • New gas cap (if damaged)
  • Replacement EVAP valves (if faulty)

Additional Information

Component

Fuel System

Repair Time

1-3 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

4 items

Parts

2 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to fix the fuel gauge not working on my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the fuel gauge issue on your Ford F-150 (2015-2020). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair inst...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Fuel gauge needle remains at 'E' (empty) regardless of fuel level
    • •Erratic fuel gauge readings (jumps or fluctuates)
    • +{count} more
  2. how to diagnose Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) air conditioning issues

    Learn how to diagnose and fix air conditioning issues in Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions.

    Component:HVAC
    Symptoms
    • •Air conditioning blows warm air
    • •Unusual noises coming from the A/C compressor
    • +{count} more
  3. what causes the engine to overheat in my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine overheating issues in Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, tools, and repair...

    Component:Cooling System
    Symptoms
    • •Engine temperature gauge reading higher than normal
    • •Warning lights illuminated on the dashboard (e.g., engine temperature warning)
    • +{count} more
  4. how to fix Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) transmission fluid leak

    Learn how to fix transmission fluid leak in Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instructions.

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Transmission slipping or hard shifting
    • +{count} more
  5. how to fix a steering wheel that won’t return to center in Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

    Learn how to fix a steering wheel that won't return to center in Ford F-150 (2015-2020). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instructi...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel does not return to center after a turn
    • •Increased steering effort required to turn
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix oil consumption issues in my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix excessive oil consumption in Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020). Step-by-step guide with tools and tips.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Increased exhaust smoke, especially during acceleration
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation