My Locking Gas Cap Won't Unlock

Some gas tanks have a locking system. This is to prevent gas theft from your automobile. It is also a method of keeping the gas cap from popping open while you are driving. Though typically easy to lock and unlock without a problem, these locking gas tanks occasionally get stuck. There are a few methods of getting that gas tank open without damaging any part of the car. It just takes a little finesse and experimentation.

Things You'll Need

  • Needle-nose pliers

Manual Release Button

  • Open the trunk of your car.

  • Remove the carpet that covers the interior wall of your trunk on the side of the gas tank. It will easily pull from the surface of the car.

  • Press the manual release button. It will be located near the gas tank.

Release Cable

  • Pull the gas-tank lever upward. It is located on the interior driver's side of the car.

  • Find the gas tank release cable. It is located under the lever.

  • Pull the gas tank release cable. Use needle-nose pliers to do this. This will forcefully release the gas tank.