Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How do you open the gas tank on a 2001 BMW X5?

How do you open the gas tank on a 2001 BMW X5? I can’t get the fuel door to open. Am I doing something wrong? Is it stuck?

avatar
Melanie Mergen · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Opening the gas tank door on a 2001
BMW X5
is simple in theory, but it can get a little more complicated if the unlocking mechanism doesn’t work.
Here’s how to open the gas tank on a 2001 BMW X5:
  • First, unlock the vehicle, which will also unlock the fuel filler door
  • At the fuel filler door, lightly press in on the door until you hear a click. Then, the fuel door should pop open.
  • Unscrew the filler cap and place it in the bracket found inside the door while you refuel.
  • Once you’ve filled your tank, press in on the door until it’s latched shut again.
If you can’t get the fuel door open this way, there could be a problem with the locking mechanism. If that’s the case, there’s a manual release in the trunk area of your BMW X5. You’ll find it behind a panel near where the fuel door would be. Simply pull on the tab with the fuel pump symbol to release the fuel door.
If after this you’re still not having luck, you might want to enlist the help of a mechanic in case there’s a problem with the fuel door’s mechanism.
MORE: Are BMWs expensive to maintain?
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings