Cap 5WA-201-550-K
Neglecting a faulty cap can lead to leaks, pressure loss, or contamination of fluids. Warning signs include visible cracks, difficulty in sealing, or fluid seepage around the area. Regular inspection and timely replacement are essential to maintain system integrity and performance.
Choosing the OEM part number 5WA-201-550-K means opting for a product manufactured to the same standards and specifications as the original. This ensures a perfect fit and reliable performance, reducing the risk of issues associated with lower-quality aftermarket parts.
Available in Stores
| Seller | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|
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Leith Volkswagen
Official Dealer
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— |
| Seller | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|
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Capitol Volkswagen
New
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$62 | |
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Infoparts13.com.ua
New
|
$51 | |
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Volkswagen
New
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— |
| Seller | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|
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AVTOERA
Used
|
$6 | |
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A20 Разборка
Used
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$14 |
Vehicle Fitment
Vehicles confirmed compatible with this part
Technical Specifications
| OEM Part Number | 5WA201550K |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volkswagen (Genuine OEM) |
| Material | Fuel-resistant durable plastic |
| Thread Direction | Clockwise to tighten, counterclockwise to remove |
| Thread Size | Standard VW filler neck compatible thread |
| Tether Included | Yes — integrated tether |
| Torque Specification | Hand-tighten until audible click; no torque value specified |
| Dimensions | — |
Direct factory replacement from Volkswagen, ensuring a precise thread match and airtight seal on all compatible filler necks.
Seals the fuel system to prevent fuel vapor leakage, helping the vehicle pass EVAP emissions tests and eliminating fuel odors.
Built-in tether keeps the cap attached to the fuel door during refueling, preventing loss or misplacement at the pump.
Compatible Aftermarket Alternatives
The following aftermarket parts are confirmed direct equivalents for OEM 5WA-201-550-K, cross-referenced from major manufacturer catalogs.
| Manufacturer | Part Number | Notes | Dimensions (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen OEM | 5WA201550AG | Alternative genuine VW OEM part number; verify fitment with VIN before ordering Recommended | — |
| Volkswagen OEM (Superseded) | 5Q0201550L | Previous-generation OEM cap; superseded by 5WA201550K on applicable models | — |
| Volkswagen OEM (Superseded) | 5Q0201550AK | Earlier superseded OEM variant; confirm current applicability before purchasing | — |
| Volkswagen OEM (Superseded) | 5Q0201550A | Oldest known superseded OEM variant in this lineage; may not reflect current spec | — |
Always verify fitment against your VIN before ordering.
How to Replace the Cap
Replacing the 5WA201550K fuel tank cap is a straightforward, tool-free procedure that takes only a few minutes. No mechanical experience is required. Follow the steps below to ensure a safe and proper installation.
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Ensure Vehicle Safety
Park the vehicle on a level surface, turn off the engine, and remove the ignition key. Allow the engine to cool if it has been running. Keep open flames and ignition sources away from the fuel filler area.
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Open the Fuel Door
Locate and activate the fuel door release (typically a lever inside the cabin or a push-to-open panel on the body). Swing the fuel door open fully to access the filler neck.
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Remove the Old Fuel Cap
Grasp the existing fuel tank cap and rotate it counterclockwise until it disengages from the filler neck threads. If a tether is present, allow the old cap to hang from it or set it aside safely.
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Inspect the Filler Neck
Before installing the new cap, visually inspect the filler neck opening for dirt, debris, damage, or worn threads. Wipe the neck rim with a clean cloth if necessary to ensure a clean seating surface.
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Install the New Cap
Place the new 5WA201550K cap onto the filler neck and rotate it clockwise. Continue turning until you hear and feel an audible click, which confirms the cap is securely seated and the seal is engaged.
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Verify the Tether Attachment
Confirm that the integrated tether is properly connected to the fuel door assembly. The tether should allow the cap to hang freely when removed but remain attached to prevent loss.
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Close the Fuel Door and Confirm
Close the fuel door until it latches. Start the vehicle and monitor for any check engine light related to EVAP system faults. If a prior fault code was triggered by the old cap, it may clear automatically after several drive cycles.
Signs of a Worn Part
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Check Engine Light (P0440 / P0457)
A loose, cracked, or worn fuel tank cap is one of the most common triggers for EVAP-related check engine codes. The vehicle's onboard diagnostics detect pressure loss in the fuel vapor system.
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Fuel Odor Near Vehicle
If the cap's internal gasket is deteriorated or the cap is not seating correctly, fuel vapors can escape through the filler area, producing a noticeable gasoline smell inside or around the vehicle.
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Decreased Fuel Efficiency
An improperly sealed fuel system can disrupt fuel vapor recovery, potentially causing a marginal reduction in fuel economy over time.
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Difficulty Tightening Cap
Worn or damaged threads on the cap can make it feel loose or prevent it from clicking securely, indicating the cap needs immediate replacement.
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Visible Cap Damage or Cracking
Physical cracks, a broken tether, or a deformed gasket visible on the cap are clear signs the component should be replaced to restore a proper vapor-tight seal.
Replacement Intervals
Volkswagen publishes no fixed mileage or time interval for fuel tank cap replacement. Replacement is strictly condition-based — driven by physical damage, seal failure, loss of the cap, or a triggered EVAP fault code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this cap fit my Volkswagen Jetta, GTI, or Tiguan?
The 5WA201550K is confirmed compatible with the Volkswagen GTI (2015–2024), Golf (2015–2021), Golf R (2015–2024), Jetta (2014–2023), Taos (2022–2024), and Tiguan (2018–2024). Always cross-reference with your vehicle's VIN or consult a VW dealership to confirm fitment for your specific model year and trim.
Can a bad fuel tank cap really cause a check engine light?
Yes. The fuel system is a sealed EVAP (evaporative emission control) system, and the vehicle's ECU monitors it for pressure loss. A loose, cracked, or improperly seated cap allows vapor to escape, triggering EVAP fault codes such as P0440 or P0457, which illuminate the check engine light.
Is there an aftermarket version of this cap available?
Specific aftermarket part numbers with confirmed fitment data for this cap are not well-documented in available sources. Given the low cost of the genuine OEM cap and its critical role in emissions compliance, purchasing the genuine Volkswagen part (5WA201550K) or its OEM alternative (5WA201550AG) is strongly recommended.
What is the difference between 5WA201550K and the superseded numbers like 5Q0201550L?
The superseded numbers (5Q0201550L, 5Q0201550AK, 5Q0201550A) represent earlier OEM revisions of the same fuel tank cap. Volkswagen issues new part numbers when design or specification updates occur. The 5WA201550K is the current active part number and reflects the latest specification.
Do I need any tools to replace the fuel tank cap?
No tools are required. The cap is entirely hand-tightened. Simply turn the old cap counterclockwise to remove it and rotate the new cap clockwise until it clicks securely into place.
Will the check engine light turn off automatically after installing the new cap?
In most cases, yes. After installing a properly sealing cap, the ECU will re-run the EVAP monitor during normal driving. The check engine light typically clears on its own within 1–3 complete drive cycles. If it does not clear, use an OBD-II scanner to erase the stored fault code.
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