Hi guys

petrol cap will not open! button inside the car does nothing and the manual release in the boot is not working either. Resorted to a wooden clothes peg to pry it open. Any ideas!

3.0V6 2001 s-type

Cheers

 

Yes. Keep the release pin lubricated or you will have problems getting the access door open.

You just found that out!
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Yep! Cheers will give it a go...

 

Mine is stuck as well however the cap will pop open with the manual boot release.
Any idea where to spray the lubricant exactly onece the door is open?

 

Spray the lube on your index finger and rub it all over the small white plastic pin in the latch assembly. For good measure, rub some lube on the pin catch as well (the part of the latch that is mounted on the inside of the fuel filler door)....

I do this every couple of months and since I began doing so years ago, I've had no more latch pin issues. Consistent lubrication is indeed the key....

 

What type of lube? If they're plastic parts, should it be silicone, or some non-oil based lube? Thx.

 

I believe that the best lube for this job is lithium white grease....

 

Well you are at least lucky that the manual release still works because it's a lot more difficult to pry the door open. Possible damage too.

Open the trunk and remove the side covering by the gas filler.
Then get someone to punch the button on the dash to release the filler door.

Can you hear the solenoid?
Is there any movement of the white plastic pin at all? How about the cable?

You could have something unhooked from the solenoid to the pin but as was advised above lubricate it first and see what happens.

Be aware that it will take several applications because your car is old and has not been maintained so it will be dirty and crudded up.

I use white Lithium grease in a spray can. You can get it at any parts store or Wal-Mart.
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