Last Updated on December 30, 2022 by Victor Lukasso
Opening a gas tank might sound like a simple task but might also be confusing and difficult if you’re not familiar with the car model.
This often occurs because of the accessibility and processes involved which might differ from cars.
While some car makes use of keys to open the gas tank, modern cars make use of a fuel release lever or button which makes the whole process easier.
Without wasting much time, let’s show you how to Open a gas tank irrespective of your car model.
How to Open a Gas Tank
In the next few paragraphs, we’ll be learning the steps you need to take to open a gas tank, whether you are trying to do so on a car, a motorcycle, or any other type of vehicle.
How to Open a Car gas tank
Irrespective of your car model, one of the below methods should open your gas tank with ease.
1. Park the Car and Unlock the Doors
Firstly, the gas tank automatically opens when the car is parked and the doors are unlocked on some cars.
2. Pull the Gas Release Lever
Other cars come equipped with a gas release lever that can be pulled up to open the gas tank door. This lever is often located right beneath the driver’s seat near the driver’s side door.
The action is often accompanied by a sound to indicate that the gas tank has been opened.
3. Press the Gas Button
In modern cars, you’ll see a button with a gas inscription on it if you check right beside the driver’s door.
Once you press this button, it’ll release the gas tank button, the gas tank will be unlocked for easy refueling.
4. Press on the gas tank
Some cars come equipped with the spring opener which allows you to gain access to the tank by simply pressing the door inwardly.
So, If you can’t find a lever, or button or the gas tank doesn’t open when you park and Unlock the Doors then you should try this.
5. Open the Gas Cap
Once the lever or button has been pressed to release the gas tank, you’ll also find a gas cap that can be opened by turning it anti-clockwise or with the car keys.
6. Refuel and close the gas tank
Once you’re done refueling the gas tank with the appropriate fuel, it’s important that you close the gas tank properly to avoid increased gas mileage.
You can do this by screwing or locking the gas cap back in place and closing the gas tank door. It should make a clicking sound.
How to Open a Motorcycle Gas tank
Unlike the car gas tank mechanism, motorcycles have two known ways of opening their tank which is either by turning the gas tank anticlockwise or by using a key.
However, I don’t know if there are modern motorcycles that make use of levers or buttons to open their gas cap.
We’ll keep you updated if we find one that does though.
1. Turn the gas tank anti-clockwise
Most motorcycle gas tanks can be opened by turning them in an anti-clockwise manner with little strength.
The gas tanks are often located in front of the driver and the steering control on motorcycles.
However, if you see a keyhole on the gas tank then it’s advised that you follow the next step.
2. Use your motorcycle keys
If there’s a keyhole in between the gas tank then there’s a high chance that the mechanism is key-oriented.
Insert your key into the hole and turn it anticlockwise to open the gas tank.
3. Refuel and close the tank
Once you’re done fueling your tank, ensure to close the gas tank tight to prevent evaporation or gas leaks which might cause increased gas mileage.
That’s all.
If you have a feeling that your gas tank is stuck then you can either access it from your car trunk where you can unlock it in the meantime.
However, I’ll advise you to take your car to a mechanic to help repair or permanently replace the Release Lever.
Additional tips for Opening a gas tank
- If you’re finding it hard to find the gas tank on your vehicle, contact the manufacturer’s guide for instructions
- Always turn off the engine of your car while refueling at a gas station
- Be careful while handling fuel because it is highly inflammable.
- If you’re introducing fuel into the tank using a container then you should do it slowly and avoid spills.
- If you smell gas or see gas leaking from your car then you should call the attention of a mechanic.
- Avoid introducing old fuel into your gas tank, you can try rejuvenating your oil gasoline before using them.
That’s all.
FAQs
How do you open the gas tank door on a?
Most cars come equipped with a fuel release lever or button which can be engaged to unlock the gas door tank instantly. It is usually located at the driver’s side door.
Why is my gas tank hard to open?
If your gas tank always feels hard to open then it’s because of a rusted spring, bent gas tank door, or a faulty fuel release lever or button. This issue can be fixed by a mechanic.
Conclusion
Opening a gas tank is a simple task that can be done in a few easy steps.
By following the above instructions, you should be able to successfully open the gas tank on your vehicle and add fuel without any problems.
