A loose gas cap triggers an EVAP leak code + check engine light on pretty much every car made since the early 2000s. Now depending on said car, all traction control and ABS might be half-disabled as soon as the CE light turns on. Usually newer cars will disable more systems to bring you back to the dealer.

ex. my current car had an intermittent O2 sensor issue, which would turn the traction control in lazy mode and try to kill me in snow/ice conditions by reenabling itself at the worst possible moment when detecting slippery conditions. My previous car had traction controls completely independent from engine faults.

No fan of Tesla(rented one, hated it), but you have a point. Subaru had two different firmware issues that caused us to be stranded two different times(the battery charge issue and the fuel gauge issue). Both were known issues when we were stranded, but Subaru failed to notify us. I had to go to the dealer and specifically request the firmware updates.

Now, granted, my Subaru has a wonderfully designed interior, doesn't require using a touchscreen, has consistent panel gaps, etc...

I'm willing to bet a lot, that there was no causation between youe ABS having issues, and a loose gas cap. These events just happened at the same, general timeframe.

> How was this recorded? User error.

This is clearly BS, since it was either coincidence or an electrical/systems problem. The shamelessness of making that claim that is incredible.

Some might question that this could be an electrical or systems problem, but the gas cap on my Kia, a relatively flimsy piece of plastic, will disable the car if not replaced properly. How does this manifest itself? With a check engine light on the dash.

This is the most stupendously idiotic misfeature in an otherwise well designed (and reliable) car.