I've noticed recently my gas cap doesn't seem to tighten and/or maybe not seal. I can turn it several revolutions and nothing. Maybe it' always been that way but seems like it did hit a 'stop' and some point.

In any event, after my last fill up I got a 'GAS CAP LOOSE" (or something similar) on the DIC. Stopped and turned (and turned) the cap again and the alert went away.

Are these supposed to turn just so far and 'lock' or am I just imagining it. I checked several places online for a new cap just in case and maybe they all use the same image but it doesn't seem like they have the (I'll call it) the extension into the filler neck. Photo looks like a simple cap w/the retainer strap while all locking caps I see do have this extension. Is it just the photos used?

gmpartscenter.com has a direct replacement #10372246 for $14.21, https://d354nuoz4t18d4.cloudfront.ne...?cb=1504373356, and Rock Auto has one (same photo as GM Parts center for $10.83 with AC # GT283, 2008 CHEVROLET HHR 2.0L L4 Turbocharged Fuel Tank Cap | RockAuto

Same cap?

 

The directions in the Owner Manual say to turn it until you hear 2 clicks, it will keep turning. Maybe even printed on the cap.

The rubber seal does wear out, residue does build up on the filler lip.

Several different makers of caps, it is not "special" . I seem to remember the ones with the strap are much more expensive, I think the Genuine GM caps have it. Some replacements do.

FWIW, there is a place built into the filler door to hold the cap if you don't have the strap.

This is the first to pop up on eBay search "hhr fuel cap".

Chevrolet Equinox Cobalt Malibu HHR Gas Tank Fuel Filler CAP new OEM | eBay

 

Mine the ratchet in the cap gave up a few years ago, same thing it would turn and turn , I replaced the cap, the dash board was satisfied the cap was tight!

 

That's what mine's been doing I've noticed lately. They're cheap enough - I llove the DIC warnings and lamps but hate to have them on all the time.

FWIW , my 2008 manual states, "When replacing the fuel cap, turn it clockwise until it clicks." Nothing about two clicks. Issue is I can continue to turn it and listen to the clicks and pull it right back off again. I'll get one ordered today.

 

Where did you get your replacement? Any certain p/n ?

 

Post #1 has part numbers and links to them.

 

Don’t forget our discount at RockAuto ! I recommend the AC Delco part! The cap in my 2011 failed 3 months after I bought the car last a year ago, I ordered a new AC Delco from RockAuto, no problems since then, but for some reason, I still have that defective cap. I’ve got to clean out my spare parts pile!