Hyundai Repair: Gas Tank, door latch, sante fe

Question
I can't get the gas tank door open on our 2004 Sante Fe. The inside lever lifts up, but it is very hard to pull and it won't click and open the door so as a result we can't put gas in the car. Is there another way to get gas door open safely?

Answer
Hi, Jolene.  Unfortunately, there is no secondary release mechanism.  You might try having an assistant hold the release lever up while you pull on the fuel door gently with a small hook.  If this doesn't work, there's a problem with the system.  Do not pull hard on the door as this may break components that are as yet undamaged.

I'd suggest the next step to be unbolting the release lever and checking the cable attachment to it.  It's possible the cable has come loose and simply pulling on the cable will open the door.  

Beyond that, it gets more difficult.  You'll need to remove some of the interior panels to gain access to the fuel door latch.