Do I need to close the fuel tank cap myself after refueling?

[OSilas]

After refueling, you need to close the fuel tank cap yourself. Most gas stations now are self-service, requiring you to open and close the fuel tank cap. Here is some relevant information about the fuel tank: 1. Introduction: A container for fuel, it is a specialized container in hydraulic systems used to store hydraulic oil or fluid. Fuel tanks can be divided into two types: open tanks and closed tanks. Open tanks have their liquid surface in contact with the atmosphere, and an air filter is installed on the tank cap. 2. Function: In addition to storing oil, the fuel tank in a hydraulic system also serves to dissipate heat, separate air bubbles from the oil, and settle impurities. Many auxiliary components are installed in the fuel tank, such as coolers, heaters, air filters, and liquid level gauges.

[DelElizabeth]

I've been driving for decades, and it has become almost instinctive for me to close the fuel tank cap myself after refueling. If the fuel tank cap isn't securely closed, dust and rainwater can enter and contaminate the fuel system, which over time may affect engine performance and even increase fuel consumption. Worse still, leaked gasoline molecules can evaporate, wasting money and polluting the environment. Although some high-end cars now come with an automatic fuel tank cap closure feature, most ordinary vehicles still rely on manual operation, especially older models and basic versions. I recommend developing the habit of closing the cap immediately after refueling—it ensures driving safety and avoids future repair costs. Don’t forget to listen for the crisp click sound to confirm it's properly locked; a small action can prevent major risks.

[DelLayla]

As a young driver who just got my license, I used to wonder why fuel tank caps couldn't close automatically to save the hassle. But after forgetting to close it once and spilling fuel everywhere while being honked at by other drivers, I learned my lesson: it really needs to be closed manually. A loose fuel tank cap can cause leaks, leading to ground pollution and even fire hazards, especially dangerous when parked if children touch it. Now a few newer models come with automatic closing systems, like handling it with a key press, but most vehicles on the market still rely on manual operation. Developing the habit of closing the cap immediately after refueling is common sense, as simple and necessary as fastening a seatbelt. Neglecting it could result in expensive cleanup costs or even accident fines. I often check if the cap is secure when parking.

[LaIris]

From a mechanical perspective, the core function of a fuel tank cap is to seal the fuel inlet, preventing evaporation and contamination. Therefore, it must be manually closed after refueling. This principle relies on a simple leak-proof mechanism: the rubber gasket inside the cap tightly presses against the interface to ensure airtightness. If left open, gasoline's high volatility leads to loss and attracts contaminants that can corrode the fuel pump and filter. A few modern vehicles feature integrated automatic caps, such as those using sensors to activate motors for closure, but ordinary sedans require manual operation. Regularly checking the cap's integrity extends vehicle lifespan, saving money and reducing repairs.