Honda Civic Defective fuel door - the cause and solution

[@theonlyfunkydude]

great insight to see the root of the problem, but where's the fix? That would've been great to learn. Have a good one!

[@jackieparmz]

I have a 2004 Civic Hybrid and just encountered the fuel door defect for the first time last night. This video was super helpful, and let me tell you, you DO NOT have to go to a mechanic to get this fixed!!!! Removing the interior paneling is a little difficult and you have to be careful not to break any parts of the plastic, but if you pay attention to what you're doing and expose the cable, all it takes is some super glue and a little patience, and you can fix it!

[@AlaskanBigE]

My son called last night with this problem in his '05. This video was the first thing google popped up and was very helpful in finding how to get at the problem quickly. The black part of the cable is a sheath that the cable slides back and forth in. If you hold that still you can fix the problem. You can see the one bolt that holds the bracket onto the chassis, take that off and you can manipulate the bracket and cable easily. I wrapped a thin wire at the base of the keeper on the sheath, then around the last notch on the white plastic piece that keeps the end of the sheath attached to the bracket. Then tape around that. Fixed for 30 cents and about 15 minutes.

[@WPGinterceptor460Interceptor]

best and cheapest part is """Fuel Door Release Repair Kit, Perma Fix 725, fits 01-05 Honda Civic""" look on EBAY, 5$... THUMBS UP

[@altheriault3400]

Thank you for this!!! Saved me $300. I ended up using furnace tape. Works great. The biggest pain was pulling off all three panels to get to the cord. (2004 Honda Civic).

[@StuartTClark-vp4dn]

"Cause", yes. "Solution", no.

[@jptrainor]

My 2006 Civic experienced the same failure. The best fix is a new cable. It's only $35. The service manual clearly explains the replacement procedure. It's an easy job. The new cables, for 2006 at least, appeared to have brass fittings that won't corrode like the old steal cable fittings did.

[@carquestions]

Thanks for the info Jim - much appreciated

[@MultiLittlegamer]

Mine still broke in my 07

[@jptrainor]

@@MultiLittlegamer It's a fairly easy diy, but I suggest that you get a service manual or an alldatadiy subscription. It doesn't require any fancy tools. A basic socket set is fine. You need to remove the rear wheel to reach up inside the fender to release the gas door latch mechanism so a jack and a jack stand are necessary too.

[@Scott-zs6gd]

You can also just use a long life sticky tape (I used Tuck Tape) to stick the cable casing to the floor so that it won't move when you press the lever. Also note that you should only press the lever half way down. If you press it all the way this is what will eventually break the plastic clip that holds the casing to the frame.

[@sheldon2610]

I got my tank to open without removing anything. I felt where the cable that was shown in the video and pushed down on it so it did not move and push down one the knob and the gas cap open.

[@tcoder123]

Thank you... That trick helped me today...

[@spiritchildinc]

Shellz Way you are the real MVP, what you described worked thank you!!!

[@GeorgeLouVideo]

I was having the same problem with my 2004 Civic EX. After unscrewing everything apart and seeing nothing wrong with the wire on both ends (driver's and trunk side), I realized that my issue was with the hook on the fuel door that locks the door in place. It was simply too close to the spring, causing it to lock too "good." So I bent the hook away from the spring for about 1-2 millimeters and now the fuel door opens with no problem. Careful not to bend the hook too much or else it won't make contact with the spring, preventing the fuel door from closing. I hope that helps some of you folks. Take care.

[@jasonwade3933]

all you need to do is, take the system apart , so that you have the cable free to work on, then basically what your problem is that the black part of the cable is coming away from the white fixture that it used to be a to stuck to, get a jubilee clip rapid around the area where the white and black use to be stuck together, put some type on first before the jubilee clip, then get a second jubilee clip and put it on the white piece leaving enough room around so when you reattach it, the jubilee clip-on on the white peace will not get in the way of any fixing it back into it housing, then you can use some copper wire to keep the two jubilee clips together as it is easier to keep the two jubilee clips together , than it is to keep the white piece and black piece that were originally put together in the factory. I hope you understand what I'm trying to explain to you. if you have a basic understanding of how it works and are half good working with your hands it should save you a lot of money. good luck

[@laxmotive]

Thanks bro. i was at a gas station trying to fill up and had this exact problem on my 2002 civic. out of nowhere too. i got home and found the problem. hopefully my duct tape on the catch will guild it open til i can get it fixed.

[@laxmotive]

will hold it open i mean. Damn ac.

[@laxmotive]

Addendum to my last comment: I figured out a work around for my 2002 Honda Civic. if you open the trunk, on the left side, you can pull back the panel above the rear light assembly. the black cable running above the wheel well goes to the gas door latch. you can just pull in the cable and the door will open as normal. better than taping the latch down. at least it works for me. :)

[@laxmotive]

Addendum to my last comment: I figured out a work around for my 2002 Honda Civic. if you open the trunk, on the left side, you can pull back the panel above the rear light assembly. the black cable running above the wheel well goes to the gas door latch. you can just pull in the cable and the door will open as normal. better than taping the latch down. at least it works for me. :)

[@yomcflyjr31]

this helped a lot. thanks man

[@apelementalityqp]

thanks man, I agree that Honda needs to update it . I also had issues with my hood cable as well on my Honda civic 02. this was very informative thank you.

[@apelementalityqp]

happy to get it from a fellow Ontarian too

[@carquestions]

anytime Brendan

[@carquestions]

Anytime

[@Russi4N]

I'm from Ontario as well, Toronto. This problem has just happened to me. It's freezing out here -21C so my gas door and trunk froze. I had my car parked outside for 5 days outside, since I have gone to Montreal for the new years weekend. When I tried to open my gas door, the latch was frozen and barely moving. I made sure thees no ice on trap door and pressing on the latch did not open it. Pulling it opened the trunk, but now I cannot close it, guess locking mechanism is frozen. I had to leave a weight on it overnight. Fount these 2 tricks, one is DIY for $2 and I would recommend the 2nd one for less then $15, but its s simple plastic clamp that you put on. DIY $2: 01 - 04 Honda Civic $2 Fix for Fuel Door Cable Release and $15 clamp Honda Civic Fuel Door Cable Repair Video

[@Kryan3k]

If you don't want to spend the money on a whole new cable doorman makes a little part that costs like $10 bucks that you can use to reattach the cable

[@carquestions]

Good tip Kryan - thanks!

[@brucebradshaw5947]

Here is the part number Dorman 924-275

[@GJAndy]

I fixed this thing myself by securely fastening a small metal cable holder around the cable to prevent it from moving and held in in place with a metal screw.. Will probably outlast the car now... Total cost about 25 cents...

[@shutterboothtexas]

Thanks for the help stuck out in no where could not get it open till I watched this video

[@BrettB246]

2007 Civic Hybrid, same issue. Honda really needs to do these repairs for free since it's an obvious design flaw and needed to be recalled on the first line, and redesigned on future models. But nope, they don't give a sh*t. Worst part, you don't know you have this problem until you need gas, and you're probably at a gas station needing to fill up.

[@redraif]

exactly how I found out. thankfully it was close to home & I had enough to get home. I ordered the cable as the Dorman 924-275 & permafix 725 will not fix it for me. the metal band did not break from the plastic. instead the metal band broke away from the cable sheath. ugh. part is being discontinued from Honda as well per one dealer. I got a new cable on ebay. that goodness I was about to sound proof & remove the interior anyway

[@teesim515]

Honestly I was just retarted and didnt know how to open it so I appreciate you

[@carquestions]

Glad to help

[@ottok9338]

Same here.

[@Mort64562]

So you're telling me I'm fucked.

[@artbw3413]

I have similar problem with my 05 Honda Accord Hybrid, I haven't been able to access the trunk in 3 yrs, because it cost almost $600 to fix, I may not be able to change my brake lights if I needed to.

[@LJT9393]

Art BW the trunk cable most likely broke in a different place, as that is just a plastic piece that broke in half and now separates when pushing down for the fuel door. It still meets the other half and holds in place when pulling for the trunk, unless yours is broken away completely from that area.

[@artbw3413]

@@LJT9393 I also learned that if you disconnect the battery and put it back, it sometimes open. So the problem could be electrical..

[@LJT9393]

Art BW but this is not an electrical wire system, it’s mechanical, so I don’t think that is true. Who told you that?

[@artbw3413]

Just something I discovered about disconnecting the battery and putting it back, hence my mechanic said it might be an electrical issue, but he's not sure, so I'll try your fix; thank you.

[@LJT9393]

Art BW if your back seat folds down, then try and access the emergency trunk release to open the trunk. Then check the wire right where your trunk latches so in the middle of the trunk door. Should be a black wire going to it maybe it came loose or something. If not you can check the wire on the left side of your trunk behind the trunk liner. The wire for the gas tank door lock will also be there but you should be able to decipher between them. Your mechanic most likely does know but they say they “won’t know until it’s booked in for an inspection”. An 05 civic most likely isn’t going to have an electrical trunk lock system i’d assume..

[@britwigger]

My 2006 has just done this now, but I guess I'll find out if your video exposed my problem. Wish me luck.

[@emmaritchie5784]

I gave this a thumbs down because the solution (Which you put in the title) does not solve anything. "Carefully replace the cable in every location honda has it in" is not very insightful. A good description of the problem(repeated a few times), but the solution was vague, if you want to say its solved, show us how you solved it. C+

[@carquestions]

You tube is like a giant "how to library" There are other videos by other people showing how to do it - so as my time was limited with this car I could only describe the solution in general terms - if you search you shall find

[@ottok9338]

Thank you bro. I just fixed my accord because your video✌

[@carquestions]

Anytime Macho A - cheers from Canada!

[@xelphinx]

Another gOod man suggests getting a Repair-kit for the cable. Dorman makes it, part 924-275. Price range is 16 to $30+, depending on Who/How its acquired 🏁 . ☮️ . gF

[@carquestions]

Thanks for the info - Cheers from Canada!

[@jimmybelanger1888]

Just happened today, exact same model. Thanks for the video.

[@Absolute_Unit135]

You’re awesome. Thank you for taking the time to post this

[@carquestions]

Anytime -

[@carquestions]

@shujaurrehman You wouldn't have the problem - its due to rust caused by people wearing slushy snow and salt covered boots in winter - Unless you put salt on the roads over there you'll never haqve these types of problems. Thanks for the comment

[@carquestions]

Only way to tell is take have someone actuate the lever with trunk open and see if the cable is moving and moving far enough to actuate the latch. Latch the trunk while its open and try it. Sounds like it would be the same issue different cable.

[@stevejohnson9788]

Yep, mines a 2001. I wonder if just placing a clamp tight on there will fix it?

[@carquestions]

Always try - nothing to lose

[@carquestions]

It might be the same issue with the cable end - only way to tell is to take it apart and have a look

[@engineermsu]

I just faced this problem. My Fuel is finished and the fuel tank cover is not opening. I saw this video, it was of no use for me as I have "Honda Accord 2006". Then I opend the trunk and find the cable there, I pulled the main cable which is operating both trunk and fuel tank cover, and the fuel tank cover is open. I will make a video tomorrow and will post.

[@pawzillasmash]

hi, if you can make a video of it then that would be great. I have the same issue.

[@engineermsu]

Scizor41 i will make it and will post as a reply. As I still didn't repair and using it by workaround only.

[@pawzillasmash]

if its not too much trouble, could you send me the link when you do make it. thnx

[@angelomisterioso]

Great video. I have the opposite problem. Fuel door opens, but trunk release won't work. Any suggestions? Thanks a load.

[@lindseychrishon9171]

My problem is the opposite my trunk won't open with remote or inside latch and gas handle works help

[@carquestions]

you may have to remove the rear seating to get at the trunk latch if there is no key option - sounds like you need a new trunk actuation cable

[@19stephy78]

@RadioSlayer what is the other video? I am interested in the $20 job instead of hundreds!

[@danceswithneon]

You can also access the actual mechanism through the trunk. might be a bit easier.

[@visualsynthesis]

No solution. Just says it costs a bunch of money. Never get those 4mins back. Thanks

[@Lustrum0005]

Well today this just happened to me, 2005 Honda Civic Special. Good thing I always fill up when I am at half a tank, so I still have gas to go to work, and get to my mechanic before running out of gas.. I saw tutorials that show how to open the the covers to expose the cable, but I don't want to risk breaking the clips on the covers, so I figure let my mechanic handle it.

[@carquestions]

You Lustrum are wise beyond measure - Cheers from Canada!

[@carquestions]

@RadioSlayer Good point - there is another video on YT that shows the fix - I wish I would have invented it.

[@kennychristianson7323]

Dog chain and zip ties will hold that in place. Thanks for helping me find the culprit!

[@carquestions]

Thanks for the info Kenny

[@tomh4048]

Someone also bumped into my car leaving an indent on the gas tank any suggestions?

[@carquestions]

If its not leaking just spray some undercoating on the dented part - or make an insurance claim of course

[@germanhernandez1316]

Very sourcefull and great detailed video, thank you. ***** I have an Acura 2006 tsx with some issues, as per your video the system looks identical. I have try to find the part number for the actual wire since mine actually broke. My gas lid does not open and my Trunk will not close. I have remove the control for the latch in the trunk, as a work around to close my trunk. And it worked! However still not able to open my gas lid. I will like to replace the cable. Does anyone knows the part number for the cable and where to find it cheaper and can this be replace for 2 different wires and not only one that eventually may give same issue. Thank's in advance.

[@justaguy2022]

i have the same problem, researching solutions right now, as for parts this diagram should be helpful www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/auto/jsp/mws/prddisplay.jsp?inputstate=5&catcgry1=Civic&catcgry2=2001&catcgry3=2DR+DX&catcgry4=KA5MT&catcgry5=TRUNK+LID

[@germanhernandez1316]

Elirv Smlnovov Thank you for your information. I was actually able to locate the match. :) www.acurapartsforless.com/oe-acura/74880sea309

[@quartapound]

great video. I have a 2006 with the same issue

[@PCexpert120]

funny thing is my gas latch doesn't work on my 99' civic. A separate body style than the effected years this problem normally occurs...

[@gregoryjenkins1461]

2003 Si EP3 here...

[@Jaime_Manzano]

extended warranty on a honda civic 2016 should i buy it yes or no ?

[@carquestions]

Its a good bet - yes

[@carquestions]

Sounds like it could be broken like the Civic or binding - try lubing the cable at both ends and take a close look.

[@kylebradshaw5418]

I just hit this myself today. 2006 Civic, MAYBE I have 20 mi left in the tank. What a stupid stupid defect. Can't believe they hadn't fixed it in the 'update' that came with the '06 model.. Won't hear how much the fix will cost until I bring it to the dealer tomorrow because otherwise after 20mi I'm screwed. :-|

[@kylebradshaw5418]

Thanks for posting this video though, it was nice to see what was wrong as I was sitting at the gas station just frustrated.

[@carquestions]

Have someone work the lever with the trunk open to see the cable end at the lock. If its attached to the lock and works when the trunk is open you can assume you have a lock problem otherwise the problem is the cable and needs replacement.

[@carquestions]

@idontcare80 Not surprising at all - this defect happens more in wet or cold climates like Canada / Northern US - I guess you are a coaster? down south?

[@plee1112]

Same problem , Honda wanted 363.00 for new cable,here on youtube Dorman has a part that can fix it part number 924-275 cost 17.99 plus tax the only thing is the clips do not fit,you have to use Retaining Rings only 29 cents each and duck tape will work too mine is fix took about ten minutes Dorman has a video on it save hundreds of dollars.

[@carquestions]

Good tip - thanks

[@codybacon7913]

Is there another way to open the tank

[@carquestions]

Got to pull on the cable somehow Cody

[@thebrightsideofthemoon5829]

Pushing and pulling on a rusty wire, reminds me of Granpa babysitting

[@iloveejunkfood]

@carquestions could you help i have the same problem with a 03 jetta can this video be the same for a jetta

[@BigBadWolfsbane]

Thanks man, great vid!

[@TimKirkham-y6u]

Need a part number

[@TimKirkham-y6u]

Like to add very helpful, if this happens first time , put finger behind trunk lever put some pressure, on carpet push the gas release.

[@carquestions]

@@TimKirkham-y6u just google Honda parts and look up your car by year, model etc

[@Gazooo29]

Does anyone know if 2010 civics have this problem still or even newer civics

[@endless5soul]

ahhh so no solution. got it.

[@golf1diesel]

Honda 'qualiy'. Can't open the flap on my 2008 Swindon made Civic mk8..

[@carquestions]

Brit eh? Got to pull on the cable any way you can - Cheers from Canada

[@golf1diesel]

@@carquestions I'm having a new spring fitted for the fuel flap by the dealer on Saturday. Hopefully it's gonna be fine.Thank you, romanian greetings from the rainy UK.

[@stevencarter7999]

didnt show the solution

[@colbyferrill9830]

Thanks for this

[@carquestions]

No problem Colby - Cheers from Canada!

[@angelatimmons5767]

Do all Honda Civics have these keyed locks for the gas flap and to put seats down? Is it an early anti theft thing?

[@carquestions]

I think some years have them and other don't - hit and miss I think

[@angelatimmons5767]

carquestions lol thanks

[@PistonAvatarGuy]

My girlfriend has this generation of Civic (an '04), we have yet to have a single problem with it, in fact, it's still almost like new. I've had a few generations of older Civics (an '87 w/160,000 miles, a '91 w/240,000 miles, and a '93 w/312,000 miles), I never had a single problem with any of them. The only problems I've seen with Civics are with the sun visors on the latest generation and I think that has been solved.

[@aletheakelly1010]

Where is the fix?!

[@nuhopetv]

Can temporarily fix it with duck tape until u get a mechanic to fix it???

[@carquestions]

Sure - sounds good

[@palfius]

What about for a 97

[@sporsterchop]

i got that problem too + the gasoline cap + the hood won`t open because the plastic got broke . + the sability bar are don`t last long

[@mr89firebird]

I didn't see the solution...? I fixed mine for $1. Two small hose clamps, some 3/8 inch vinyl tubing, and a small piece of copper wire. Looks like it should hold very well.

[@Domterreto]

What if the gas will open but the trunk will not

[@carquestions]

Need to replace the cable or find a repair - on other YT videos

[@carquestions]

No its a different type of actuating mechanism - sorry

[@Ankhet]

The video said affected models are 2001-2005

[@carquestions]

I am from Canada and yes all Civics have this problem

[@lanetbrown5531]

I have a 2013 si. The fuel door wont close because of the cable. WTF Honda?

[@carquestions]

I share your pain - stupid design

[@brittneyclemons]

I was quoted $926 to fix it. 😂

[@carquestions]

Check other vids on how to fix it - that's ridiculous - Cheers from Canada!

[@dnlmachine4287]

That lock barrel is the most useless piece of crap I have ever seen. Bought my car new and it broke in 1 week, Honda lubed it, that lasted 1 day.

[@scrappyonez]

Ok video, but where is the solution Dude?

[@deadreckoner5276]

I've had this problem for months. Just release the fuel door in the trunk.

[@carquestions]

Good advice

[@deadreckoner5276]

I just fixed this with some electrical tape and hose clamps. $2.50. Yes, two dollars and fifty cents. And 20 mins.

[@drakehanson7373]

Got a 2013 civic coupe and it does the same thing lol

[@PeteRoy]

Thanks for showing this, now we know not to buy old Honda Civics

[@idkclay]

@PeteRoy Old honda civics are the good one's haha

[@davidpetersen1]

So.. your solution is take it to a garage and pay between $200 and $500??🤣🤣 You are as helpful as the bill collector who suggested I put my student loan on my Visa at 20% interest. Thanks for showing the underlying problem but if you are going to clickbait a solution you should give one.. besides going to a garage.

[@carquestions]

sorry

[@PistonAvatarGuy]

@carquestions Sorry, I didn't watch the video before I commented. Bad habit. I'm in New Mexico, so I don't think I'll see any corrosion related issues at all here.

[@nimorodriguez1927]

so where is the solution you just wasted my time with something i already knew geez

[@irietropicals4255]

Solves nothing

[@SOFLOHOOKER]

$15 dollars to fix

[@cupnoodles2]

err just put some expoxy on it..

[@angelatimmons5767]

Lol thanks

[@iColonicsss]

Or you can buy a new gas cover with a lock and just replace it which cost you atleast 20$