How to Remove the Fuel Tank Cap Lock Cylinder?
2 Answers
Soak the plastic shell part of the fuel tank cap in boiling water for a while, then use a flat-head screwdriver to pry it open along the joint between the plastic shell and the metal part. After prying open the plastic shell, pull out the lock cylinder and the plastic lock cylinder slot from the metal housing. Insert the key into the lock cylinder, then locate a wire clip at the bottom of the lock cylinder slot. Remove the clip to pull out the lock cylinder.
Removing the fuel tank cap lock cylinder is actually quite simple. I figured it out gradually through experience, starting with preparing the tools. Get a small Phillips screwdriver and a plastic pry bar ready. The car's fuel tank cap usually has a cover plate hiding the lock cylinder position—pry it open by hand without using too much force to avoid scratches. Then locate the fixing screws, typically hidden on the side or inside the back. Loosen them with the screwdriver and gently pull out the entire lock cylinder assembly. Don’t rush the process, as there might be small springs and washers inside. If rusted, spray some lubricant and wait patiently for a few minutes. After removal, clean off dust or replace old parts. Test the key’s smooth rotation before reassembly. The whole process takes about ten minutes, with the key step being disconnecting the battery’s negative terminal to prevent short-circuit accidents. As a side note, if it’s a newer car with a different design, referring to the manual will be more accurate.
