How to Open the Fuel Tank Cap on the Enclave?
4 Answers
The method to open the fuel tank cap on the Enclave: manually press the sensor area of the fuel tank cap, which is either the middle part or the head of the cap. A single press will cause the cap to pop open. The Enclave is developed based on GM's small crossover vehicle platform, featuring a coupe-style design rarely seen in SUVs and excellent dynamic performance for a compact SUV. It is equipped with GM's eighth-generation Ecotec engine, paired with a 9-speed HYDRA-MATIC intelligent transmission and a CVT continuously variable transmission, meeting the China 6 emission standards. In terms of dimensions, the Enclave measures 4295mm in length, 1798mm in width, and 1616mm in height.
I've been driving the Encore for two years, and opening the fuel tank cap is not as simple as it seems. You need to have the vehicle unlocked (by pressing the remote key or the door handle button), walk to the fuel tank cap, and press directly on the right side. You'll hear a click, and it will pop open. Remember to park the car stably and turn off the engine, and don't take the car key too far away, or it won't sense it and won't open. There's a small plastic strap on the back of the fuel tank cap connected to the car body, which is quite thoughtful as it prevents loss. When closing the cap, just align it with the slot and press it back; no need to use too much force, or the hinge might break. During regular car washes, remember to wipe the gaps around the cap to prevent sand and stones from jamming the latch.
As a frequent road-tripper and Enclave owner, here's my experience with opening the fuel tank cap: First, ensure the engine is completely turned off. Unlock the vehicle using the key or by pressing the unlock button on the driver's door handle, which will release the electronic lock on the fuel tank cap. There's no need to look for an interior switch—simply walk to the fuel tank cap and firmly press the protruding edge on the right side, about two centimeters from the edge. You'll notice a distinct elasticity when pressing, and the cap will immediately pop open at about a 15-degree angle. A reminder: when refueling, insert the fuel tank cap into the dedicated slot nearby to avoid it dangling and scratching the paint. In northern winters, check for ice buildup around the cap opening—never force it open if frozen.
When I first got the Buick Encore, I was also confused. Later, the salesperson taught me: this car's fuel tank cap doesn't require any hidden switch to open. After unlocking the vehicle (make sure it's in the fully unlocked state), simply press the area slightly to the right of the center of the fuel tank cap with your palm and hold for about three seconds. The internal spring mechanism will automatically release. To close it, align the cap and press it in until you hear a double click, indicating it's fully secured. It's recommended to check the condition of the fuel tank seal monthly, especially after high-pressure car washes, as a deformed rubber seal can lead to gasoline odor leakage. This design is much more convenient than the old twist-off caps and is very user-friendly, even for female drivers.
