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How do I open the gas tank on a 2004 BMW X5?

I’m back home to visit my family so I’m driving our old family car for a few weeks. Unfortunately, I cannot remember how to open the fuel door. What’s the trick? How do I open the gas tank on a 2004 BMW X5?

avatar
Bonnie Stinson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
BMWs are definitely unique! There is no lever to open the gas tank on a 2004
BMW X5
. Instead of an interior switch to release the fuel door latch, you have to lightly press the fuel door to trigger the spring-loaded hinge.
Start by making sure the vehicle is in Park. Then, gently press the fuel door and release it. The door should crack open slightly so you can grab the edge and open it completely. Then, unscrew the gas cap and fuel up like usual.
Don’t
put the wrong gas in your car
! Check the owner’s manual to confirm, but your X5 probably uses premium unleaded 91-octane fuel. The octane ratings mean that the fuel is efficient to a higher or lower degree. You’ll pay more for higher octane ratings.
Of course, if the
fuel door won’t close
when you’re done at the pump, this could be a separate problem. It could be as simple as a broken latch—but it’s never a good idea to drive around with an open fuel door.
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