Vehicle Specifications

Fuel Tank Cap

~4min read

Opening the Fuel Filler Door

The fuel filler cap can be opened from inside the vehicle by pressing the fuel filler door opener button.

If the fuel filler door cannot be opened due to ice formation around it, gently tap or press on the door to break the ice and open the door. Do not pry the door open. If necessary, spray an approved de-icing solution (do not use antifreeze) around the door, or move the vehicle to a warm place and allow the ice to melt.

1. Stop the engine.

2. To open the fuel filler door, press the fuel filler door opener button.

3. Open the fuel filler cap (1).

4. To remove the cap, turn the fuel filler cap (2) counterclockwise (3).

5. Refuel as needed.

Closing the Fuel Filler Door

1. To install the cap, turn it clockwise until it clicks once. This indicates that the cap is securely tightened.

2. Close the fuel filler cap and press it lightly to make sure it is securely closed.

✽ NOTICE

A intermittent clicking noise may be heard near the fuel filler opening while the engine is running at idle if the fuel cap is not tightened properly. This is usually caused by the OBD system.

✽ NOTICE

When refueling on an uneven surface, the fuel gauge may not indicate the F position.

This is not a malfunction. If you move the vehicle to a level surface, the fuel level indicator will move to the "F" (Full) position.

WARNING - Refueling

Always remove the fuel filler cap carefully and slowly. If the cap releases fuel or you hear a hissing sound, wait until the sound stops before removing the cap completely. If pressurized fuel sprays out, it may contact your clothing or skin and expose you to the risk of toxic exposure, fire, and burns.

Always check that the fuel filler cap is securely installed to prevent fuel spillage in the event of an accident.

✽ NOTICE

Tighten the cap until it clicks once, otherwise the fuel filler cap warning light will illuminate.

WARNING. Risk of fire/explosion.

Read and follow all warnings posted at the filling station. Failure to follow all warnings may result in serious injury, severe burns or death from fire or explosion.

CAUTION! Static electricity

  • Before touching the fuel nozzle, discharge any potential static electricity by touching a metal part of the vehicle body away from the filler neck, nozzle, or other source of fuel vapor.
  • Do not re-enter the vehicle after refueling has started. Static electricity may be generated by touching, rubbing, or sliding against any object or fabric (polyester, satin, nylon, etc.) capable of producing static electricity. A static discharge may ignite fuel vapor and cause rapid combustion. If you must re-enter the vehicle, discharge potential static electricity again by touching a metal part of the vehicle body away from the filler neck, nozzle, or other source of fuel vapor before touching the nozzle.

CAUTION! Portable fuel container

When using an approved portable fuel container, always place the container on the ground before refueling. A static discharge from the container may ignite fuel vapors, causing a fire. After refueling has started, keep in contact with the vehicle until refueling is complete. Use only approved portable plastic fuel containers designed for transporting and storing gasoline.

CAUTION! Mobile phone ignition.

Do not use mobile phones while refueling. Electrical current and/or electronic interference from cell phones may ignite fuel vapors and cause a fire.

WARNING - Smoking

Do NOT use matches or a lighter, do NOT SMOKE, and do not leave a lit cigarette in your vehicle at a filling station, especially during refueling. Vehicle fuel is highly flammable and may cause a fire if ignited.

CAUTION! Refueling and vehicle fire

Always turn off the engine when refueling. Sparks produced by electrical components related to the engine may ignite fuel vapors and cause a fire. After refueling is complete, make sure the fuel filler cap and fuel filler door are securely closed before starting the engine.

Be sure to refuel your vehicle in accordance with the "Fuel Requirements" in Chapter 1.

If the fuel filler cap needs to be replaced, use only an genuine Kia cap or an equivalent specified for your vehicle. An improperly installed fuel filler cap may cause serious malfunction of the fuel system or emission control system.

CAUTION - Exterior Paint

Do not spill fuel on the exterior surfaces of the vehicle. Any fuel spilled on painted surfaces may damage the paint.

Emergency Fuel Filler Door Opening

If the fuel filler cap does not open with the fuel filler cap release button, you can open it manually. Open the trunk and gently pull the emergency release handle on the left side.

CAUTION

Do not pull the handle too hard, otherwise the luggage compartment may shift or release, or the handle may be damaged.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Optima DL3 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.