Roadster fuel filler flap release problem

[V8V CG]

I'm sure I've seen something on this before, but cannot find it with Search.

My Roadster fuel filler flap is increasingly reluctant to open. I might press the button in the footwell a dozen times before it works. Does anyone know (a) what I can do to get it to open first time, and (b) is there an emergency release in the boot? I've looked, but don't see anything obvious. The car isn't due to go to the dealer 100 miles away until next Spring, and I don't want to find myself in trouble before then.

[woolders]

Call your dealer and ask him to send a new rubber grommet for the fuel cap. My dealer also sent a helpful diagram It works like a spring and took me 5 minutes to fit with a dab of super glue.

If it is like a DB9, there is a cable in the recess up and to the left of the boot.

[Richales]

I gave up on mine working a long time ago and always use the cable release now.

Open the boot and down on the LHS there's a load of drilled holes in the side carpet. If you put you finger into the top of these holes you should feel a loop. Give this a light tug towards you and you'll feel it motor the catch open.

I've taken apart and cleaned the flap mechanism which seemed to work for about a week then gave up. Might check out the grommet replacement though.

[V8 Animal]

My dealer put a spring in the release arm no problems since.

[V8V CG]

Richales - thanks for the advice on the manual release. I found it, and can relax now if the cap never opens from the button.

Woolders - I will contact the dealer to send a grommet and instructions.

V8Animal - I will get the dealer to fix for good next Spring.

Great forum!
Chris

[Neil1300R]

Would also look at the mechanism whilst someone pushes the release button. The cable is prone to strech, but the release catch is also prone to stick. 3-in-1 lubricating oil fixed mine. Had two dealers both tell me the cable needed replacing - it didn't.

[v8woollie]

I just applied a little pressure to straighten up the flap and it opens every time now. Seems to get a bit misaligned and then sticks but once both side of the mechanism are aligned it seems OK.

[noddy2]

The v8 roadster has a solenoid release, with a liftomat gas damper to push the flap open.
If you can hear the solenoid operating when you press the release button in the car,then the chances are that the damper needs replacing, around £30.00 ish
Hope this helps.