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If your gas cap won’t open, there’s a little trick you can use to open it via the emergency release and fix the problem.
Gas cap won’t open—here’s how to use the emergency release
If you need to fill up and the gas cap simply won’t open, it may be because the actuator is broken. You should avoid forcing the gas cap open or using an object to do so, as this can cause damage. There’s an easier and better trick.
- If the actuator is defective, you can open the gas cap using the emergency release. Depending on your vehicle model, this may be located in different places.
- It’s often located in the trunk behind a trim panel, but sometimes you’ll find it in the footwell on the driver’s side. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for more information.
- Once you remove the trim panel, you’ll see a pull cord marked with a gas pump symbol. Pull it gently, and the fuel cap will open again.
- Have the actuator professionally replaced afterward so that the fuel cap can open and close without any problems in the future.
Fuel cap stuck in winter—here’s how to open it
If you have trouble opening the fuel cap in winter, low temperatures are likely to blame.
- On cold days, the gas cap can freeze shut, making it very difficult or even impossible to open.
- If possible, drive the car into a warm area, such as a parking garage or a garage, and wait until the gas cap can be opened again.
- It’ll go faster if you have de-icer spray on hand and spray it on the affected areas. Then lubricate the rubber seal with silicone to prevent the gas cap from freezing again.
