Hi all,

 

about to sell my 2002 Octavia for a newer model but I have a problem.

A couple of days ago the button on the dash for unlocking the fuel flap has been acting up.

 

When in line with the other buttons, it works fine and the flap opens, but it doesen't spring back all the way out.

It seems to get stuck half way and then won't release the flap on the next push.

 

If I gently tease it from side to side with a small screwdriver or kitchen knife it springs back out and all is fine again.

But the next time I press it it sticks half way on the return.

 

Has anyone come across this before? Could really use some help as it's going to be difficult to sell the car as it is.

 

Many thanks.

 

Olivia.

Can of electrical contact spray, to degunge, let it sit for 10min, and work the switch a couple of dozen times, in around the button might free it up. Sounds like its just mechanically sticking to be honest, and its not coming out far enough to reset the switch.

As @mac11irl said - it's a fairly minor problem and shouldn't be too difficult to fix.

 

If you can remove the switch from the dash that should make it easier to see and fix what's causing it to stick. I've never had to remove mine, but I'm sure someone else on here will have and can give you some tips on how to remove it.

Thanks guys.

 

I did give it a good dose of WD40 and spent a while working the switch in and out (did it over the space of 2 days) but it still sticks.

 

Will have to see how difficult it is to remove from the dash and see if I can get the spray right into where the spring part is located.

 

It does seem to be just sticking, as opposed to an electrical fault.

@Olivia7

Wd40 wont break down the crap stuck in around the switch. 

Its also not great around electrical things as its conductive. The contact cleaner breaks it down and evaporates completely so no residue left behind

 

Oh............I didn't know that

 

Will try the contact cleaner so, cheers for the replies, very much appreciated.

Dont worry, looooots of people post "i sprayed wd40 all over the connector/motor/switch/whatever and its done nothing" not realising it doesnt work for that kinda thing

Contact cleaner is cheap, and always handy to have around, along with some "shock and unlock" or similar penetrating release fluid for them stubborn seized nuts/bolts screws etc

On 25/02/2019 at 22:07, mac11irl said:

Dont worry, looooots of people post "i sprayed wd40 all over the connector/motor/switch/whatever and its done nothing" not realising it doesnt work for that kinda thing

Contact cleaner is cheap, and always handy to have around, along with some "shock and unlock" or similar penetrating release fluid for them stubborn seized nuts/bolts screws etc

 

Indeed - it's always a good idea to use the right lubricant/grease/penetrating fluid for the job.

 

I struggled to type that without sn1ggering a little... 

Edited 27 February, 20197 yr by petrolbloke
stupid word filter

Epic