How to Open the Fuel Tank Door of a Passat?
3 Answers
The method to open the fuel tank door of a Passat is: 1. Press the fuel tank button on the driver's door; 2. Walk to the fuel tank door and unscrew the fuel cap counterclockwise. Taking the 2020 Passat as an example, it is a mid-size sedan with body dimensions of length 4933mm, width 1836mm, height 1469mm, and a wheelbase of 2871mm. The fuel tank capacity is 68.5 liters, the trunk capacity is 521 liters, and the curb weight is 1470kg. The 2020 Passat is equipped with a 1.4T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 150PS, a maximum power of 110kW, and a maximum torque of 250Nm, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
As a veteran Passat driver with over a decade of experience, I find opening the fuel filler door quite straightforward—the key is identifying your model year. Older Passat models typically have a small lever located near the left side under the driver's seat; just pull it to release. Newer versions might integrate it with the door unlocking system—simply press the fuel door after remote unlocking. Regular dust and rust prevention is crucial to avoid lever jams during critical moments. I recall once struggling at a gas station only to find my kid had accidentally kicked and misaligned the release cable; a quick screwdriver fix solved it. Always unlock your car before refueling to prevent awkward situations. Also, apply lubricant on the hinge in winter to prevent freezing. Remember: the interior lever is your primary method, and avoid tampering with wiring to prevent fuse blowouts.
I usually drive a Passat to commute and find its fuel filler door design particularly user-friendly. In modern versions, it's mostly operated via the remote key: press the unlock button, and the fuel cap can be flipped open by hand directly. For older models, you'd need to bend down to locate the small lever under the driver's seat—a gentle pull opens the door. I think this design is quite clever, offering both security and convenience, eliminating the hassle of getting out to fumble with keys. However, sometimes the fuel door may get stuck, like when the electronic lock engages if the engine isn't turned off while parked, so developing a habit of refueling with the engine off is better. I've heard some people struggle to locate it; my advice is to check the owner's manual or online tutorial videos to avoid prying randomly and damaging the paint. Additionally, keeping the lever dry extends its lifespan—wiping it down after car washes reduces rust buildup. These little tips make daily car use more worry-free.
