Repair methods
(1) If you model has a release cable inside the boot on the same side as the fuel flap then use the cable to release the fuel flap.
(2) If the piston or release mechanism is near an air-bag operating cylinder or air bag device as mentioned in some forums, please exercise common sense and stay well clear as you may inadvertently operate the airbag with catastrophic results and possible serious injury.
(3) If there is no release cable and you want to try to release the fuel flap to gain entry to the fuel cap then:
(A) use masking tape to cover and protect the area below the fuel flap and at the bottom of the fuel flap against damage,
(B) use a long thin screwdriver inserted from the bottom of the fuel flap and aimed at a small circle some 0.5 cm in diameter to press the centre of the circle and thereby push up a piston from the hole to disengage the lock
(C) when the fuel flap is open use electrical tape or similar to tape the piston into its housing and to wrap around the holed assembly attached to the fuel flap to prevent the piston re-engaging into the lock
Notes: you need to use masking tape to protect the bodywork and the lower part of the fuel flap or you will damage the paintwork. Do not try to prise the flap open fully without disengaging the piston as you will damage the mechanism. You can use a torch and by slightly prising the fuel flap from the left hand side you will see the piston. On our Clio it looked like a small black circle.
