S40 Fuel Flap Release Failure

My 2001 Volvo S40 with a gasoline engine is giving me grief. The fuel flap release isn't working at all. There's an error stored, and now I can't lock or unlock the fuel filler flap. Some other functions aren't working either. Fuses seem fine. Any ideas?

4 comment(s)

Sounds frustrating. The symptoms point to a potential issue with the fuel flap's electric actuator, or the wiring. Have you tried using your key fob to activate the release, if your car has that? Can you hear any sound from the fuel flap area when you try to release it?

Yeah, key fob does nothing. Usually reliable, but not this time. No buzzing or clicking near the fuel flap when I try the release. Does that mean the actuator's shot? Anything else I can check before I give up and take it to a garage? Is there a cable release somewhere?

Based on your description and the lack of sound from the fuel flap area, it's probable the electric actuator is defective. Since you've checked the fuses, further diagnosis needs specialized tools. I recommend a qualified workshop for inspection and repair.

Took it to a garage. It was the actuator, plus some linkage was busted too. Cost me about 210€ to get it sorted. At least it's working now.

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