C70 S70 V70: Fuel Flap

[3tymer]

The flap on the fuel tank on my 2008 V70 D5 diesel - which by the way, I love driving - opens by itself occasionally, but as far as I can tell only overnight when parked on the drive. No evidence of syphoning or skulduggery.

Any ideas, please, as to what is happening?

[chris-oxon]

Don't know if the later model is the same design, but on mine (late ph2 model)the plastic retaining lugs holding the spring can break, which results in the flap just flopping about. When you're driving the central locking engages the flap which then stays shut. Similarly after you park and lock the car, the lock should engage the flap after 5-10 minutes and stop it flapping. Had mine fixed at the last service. All the dealers seem to keep a supply of these parts as its a known weak point, and the complete hinge has to be replaced. Be surprised if the later model is any different....

[3tymer]

Chris
Thank you. I will try WD40 on the spring/catch mechanism.
I am wondering if temperature and contraction in the heat/cold would affect a poorly-engaged locking pin as well.

[chris-oxon]

I think you should be able to easily see if the locking pin is working by locking the car with the fuel flap open and seeing if the pin slides across (after about 5 minutes when the dead-locks operate). If not try WD40? If that doesn't work you may have a defective solenoid as well?

Following link shows the hinge and spring mechanism - where you can see the spring held by the plastic lugs.

https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=V7...w=1440&bih=708

[3tymer]

Thaanks again, Chris. I'll follow that up. The service is due next week so I can find out what might be the problem then ask the garage to fix it.

Of course, it hasn't happened for 10 days now!