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majakrueger91

F Type Fuel Door Stuck, Electric Release System Failure

My 2016 F Type has an issue with the fuel flap release not working properly. When pressing the release button, nothing happens and the fuel filler flap stays locked. The car also shows an error message and some vehicle functions are limited. The release mechanism seems completely unresponsive, and I cannot access the fuel filler at all. Has anyone experienced a similar electrical fault with their fuel flap system? Looking for suggestions on what components typically fail and what repairs were needed to fix this. Any tips on temporary workarounds while waiting for a workshop appointment would also be helpful.

4 comment(s)

richardbauer10

I had a very similar issue with my 2014 F Pace, which shares many electrical components with your model. Having some experience with fuel system repairs, I can share what worked for me. The main problem was a faulty electric actuator in the fuel flap release mechanism. The linkage was defective, causing the system to fail completely. Like your case, I got error messages and could not access the fuel filler at all. My workshop diagnosed it as a broken cable release assembly connected to the actuator. The repair involved: Replacing the complete electric actuator unit, Installing a new cable release mechanism, resetting the vehicle electronics Total cost was 210€ including parts and labor. The repair took about 2 hours. As a temporary solution, most models have an emergency manual release cable inside the trunk area, but location varies. Before suggesting where to look for yours, could you confirm: Exact engine variant, If the key fob release button works, Whether you hear any sound when pressing the release, If the error message appears immediately or after attempting to open This would help determine if you are dealing with the same electrical fault I experienced.

majakrueger91 (Author)

Last service was at 115833KM in August 2023. Thanks for the detailed response. It seems to be exactly the same issue you described. To answer your questions: No sound when pressing the fuel door release, The error appears instantly when attempting to open, Key fob release also not functioning, V6 3.0L engine variant The lock actuator appears completely dead, and I found the manual release cable, but it is also stuck. Even with a working cable, the fuel filler door remains locked. Planning to book a workshop appointment soon, but wondering if there are any other diagnostic steps worth trying first? The local dealership quoted significantly more than 210€ for the repair. Did you use OEM parts for your actuator replacement?

richardbauer10

Thanks for providing those details. Yes, my repair was nearly identical, and seeing your symptoms confirms it is likely the same actuator failure. Regarding the higher quote, I actually went with a certified aftermarket lock actuator which worked perfectly and cost about half of the OEM part. Just ensure its a quality brand compatible with the F Type electrical system. The fuel flap release mechanism is essentially the same between our models. Since your manual release is also stuck, this suggests the entire assembly needs replacement. In my case, trying to force the manual cable actually made things worse by damaging the release mechanism further. Quick diagnostic tip that helped identify my faulty electric actuator, check the fuse box for the fuel door circuit. A blown fuse would prevent operation, but since you have multiple system errors, its likely the actuator itself. Parts costs vary, but 450-600€ is typical at dealers using OEM components. Independent shops using quality aftermarket parts usually charge 200-300€. The labor time is the same regardless. Would not recommend any DIY fixes given the complexity of the release mechanism and risk of damaging the fuel door assembly further. Getting it properly diagnosed and repaired is the safest approach.

majakrueger91 (Author)

Thank you for the helpful advice. After checking the symptoms further and comparing them with the information provided, I am now confident about the issue with my fuel flap release system. The consistent electrical fault with both the main release button and manual cable release points clearly to a failed actuator assembly. Since the fuel filler remains completely inaccessible and multiple vehicle functions are affected, I will schedule a proper repair rather than attempt temporary fixes. I appreciate the tip about aftermarket parts being a viable option. Will discuss this with my workshop as a way to reduce costs while ensuring proper function of the release mechanism. The price difference between OEM and quality aftermarket components seems significant enough to consider. Will book the repair soon and ensure they check the complete cable release system during installation of the new actuator. Once again, thanks for helping diagnose this frustrating fuel flap issue.

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