Petrol Flap Release not Working

[SH20]

My 2017 LS500h has a fuel flap release problem.   Pressing the button doesn't open the flap and using the manual release from inside the boot only just moves the flap whereby it moves about one sixteenth of an inch which allows me to get my finger nails  in to pull it open.    The release button I expect is or I assume  activating  a solenoid of some sort which is supposed to pull back the plunger so the flap springs open.   If it wasn't for the manual release I couldn't get fuel in to the tank.  

Numerous YouTube clips on this subject cover a number of Lexus models but not the LS variants.  Not had this issue on any previous Lexus, ES or GS nor  my first LS

Anyone know what the issue is and how much interior trim might require removing.   I do have warranty but curiosity as to why this failure occurred intrigues me.  

[cruisermark]

Hi Steve

A brief google into this shows 2 possible causes:

1) Lack of lubrication: Fuel Gas Door won't open - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion

2) A broken Spring mechanism: Gas Door - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion

hope this helps

[John N]

From experience Toyota/Lexus have used the same fuel flap mechanism across many models. 

There is a small flat spring on the fuel flap hinge that pushes the fuel filler door open. I had to replace one on an old RAV4 a few months ago and my LS430 has the same mechanism. It's a cheap part from your local dealer and easy to change.

Because the fuel door does not open when you pull the manual release it indicates the little spring is the problem.

You can easily check the solenoid release is working. Open the fuel flap door and watch the release pin when somebody in the car operates the release switch.

John

 

[steve2006]

As John says, I’ll just add you can normally hear the solenoid activate when you pull the lever too, a mild thump noise in the boot.

[SH20]

Thank You members,  I'll check the operation of the solenoid and also see where this spring is located.   I contacted the dealer and waiting on them to discuss as this seems to be something that is well documented.   

[SH20]

Not sure what has happened but opened the flap manually and then got the wife to sit in the car and press the fuel release button.  I could see that the plunger was working fine and since doing this procedure the flap is now opening every time.  Not sure if allowing the plunger to activate while the flap was open has re aligned the mechanism somehow.   One to keep an eye on. 

[hockeyedwards]

Might be worth looking on the LC forum, a number of them suffered from the issue, so I would imagine they may have some insight into temp/ long term fixes if you come stuck/ unstuck again! 🙂