How to open the fuel filler flap on a ŠKODA Kodiaq: 5 proven methods + emergency access

Fuel tank flap on ŠKODA Kodiaq - a seemingly simple detail, but its discovery sometimes turns into a real puzzle. Especially if this is your first time behind the wheel of this crossover or you encounter a mechanism malfunction. Unlike many cars, where the cover opens simply by pressing the panel itself, Kodiaka a more complex system with an electric drive and redundant mechanical levers has been implemented.

In this article we will analyze all possible methods of opening the hatch - from standard (via a button in the cabin) to emergency (if the electronics fail). You will learn where the hidden cable is located, how to avoid breaking plastic latches and what to do if the cover freezes in winter. We have also collected answers to frequently asked questions from owners, including nuances for restyled versions Kodiaq 2021+.

1. Standard way: button in the interior

The most obvious method, recommended by the manufacturer, is to use the sunroof release button located on the instrument panel. On ŠKODA Kodiaq (all generations, including facelift 2021) it is located to the left of the steering column, next to the trunk and hood release buttons. The icon on it is stylized to resemble a gas station.

To open the hatch:

• 🔘 Press the button once and a characteristic click will be heard, signaling the unlocking.
• 🚗 Approach the hatch and lightly press on its right side (from the side of the rear fender) - the cover will open.
• ⚠️ Do not pull the cover by force - if it does not give in, check whether the electric drive has worked (the sound of the motor should be heard).

⚠️ Attention: If, after pressing the button, the hatch does not open, but the sound of the motor is heard, the problem may be icing of the mechanism (in winter) or jamming of the cable. Do not try to open it by force - this will lead to breakage of the plastic guides.

On some versions Kodiaq (especially with the option Keyless) the hatch can also be opened with the key: hold the trunk open button on the key fob for 3–5 seconds. However, this method does not work on all trim levels.

2. Mechanical method: emergency opening cable

If the electronics fail (for example, the battery is dead or the fuse is blown), the ŠKODA Kodiaq A mechanical emergency opening cable is provided. It is located in luggage compartment, under the floor, on the side of the gas tank flap.

Step by step instructions:

1. Open the trunk (if the electronics do not work, use the key in the trunk lock).
2. Lift the trunk floor - it is secured with plastic latches (carefully so as not to break it!).
3. Find orange cable loop (it is located closer to the right side, next to the spare wheel well).
4. Pull the noose smoothly but confidently — the hatch should open.

If the cable is not found, check its location according to the diagram in the user manual (section "Emergency opening of the gas tank flap"). On some versions Kodiaq the loop can be hidden under a plastic cover.

Raise the trunk floor|Find the orange cable loop|Pull smoothly, without jerking|Check the hatch opening visually-->

3. What to do if the hatch is frozen or jammed

In winter the owners ŠKODA Kodiaq often encounter icing of the hatch mechanism. If after pressing the button the lid does not open, but you can hear the sound of the motor, the problem is most likely ice. Don't use hot water - this can damage plastic and electronics.

Safe defrosting methods:

• ❄️ Use lock defroster (for example, Liqui Moly or WD-40 Specialist). Spray the product around the hatch opening and wait 5-10 minutes.
• 🔥 Heat the ignition key (not to red!) and carefully insert it into the slot of the hatch to melt the ice.
• 🚗 If the car is in a garage, direct a stream of warm air from the heater to the hatch (no closer than 30 cm).

⚠️ Attention: Do not try to open a frozen hatch by force - this will lead to breakage of the plastic latches. The cost of replacing them Kodiaq starts from 8,000 rubles (with work).

If the hatch is jammed due to a mechanical problem (for example, a cable is bent), try lightly tapping the lid with your palm from the inside (trunk side). Sometimes this helps to move a stuck mechanism.

What to do if the cable breaks?

If the emergency opening cable is broken, the inner trim of the rear fender will need to be dismantled. In this case, it is better to contact a service center, since independent repairs may damage the electrical wiring. Average cost of replacing a cable ŠKODA Kodiaq — 3,500–5,000 rubles (without diagnostic accounting).

4. Opening the hatch on restyled versions (2021+) - are there any differences?

After facelift 2021 ŠKODA Kodiaq received updated electronics, but the mechanism for opening the gas tank flap remained virtually unchanged. However, there are several nuances:

Parameter	Before facelift (2017–2020)	After facelift (2021+)
Button location	To the left of the steering wheel, without backlight	To the left of the steering wheel, with backlit (on versions with Ambition and Style)
Emergency opening cable	Orange loop, no protection	Loop in plastic case (to protect against moisture)
Electric drive	Motor without feedback	Motor with position sensor (notifies about incomplete closure)
Key from key fob	Works only on versions with Keyless	Powered by all trim levels with keyless entry

On restyled versions a function also appeared automatic closing of the hatch after refueling (if the driver's door is closed). If this mechanism fails, it can be disabled through the menu Settings → Comfort → Automatic closing of the fuel filler flap.

5. Frequent malfunctions and their causes

If the fuel filler flap is on ŠKODA Kodiaq stopped opening, the reasons can be either mechanical or electrical. Here are the most common problems:

• 🔋 Dead battery — the electric drive does not receive power. Solution: charge the battery or use the emergency cable.
• 🔌 Fuse burned out (F37, 10A in the fuse box under the steering wheel). Check it with a multimeter or replace it with a known good one.
• ⚙️ The motor is jammed - often occurs due to moisture ingress. Solution: dismantling and cleaning the mechanism.
• 🧊 Icing - relevant in winter. Solution: defroster or warming up the interior (direct warm air from the stove to the hatch).
• 🔗 The cable broke - requires replacement. Average repair cost: 4,000–6,000 rubles.

If the problem is electrical, also check the relay K75 (responsible for the central locking and fuel filler flap). It is located in the additional relay box under the instrument panel.

⚠️ Attention: On some Kodiaq 2018–2019 model year there was a factory defect in the plastic guides of the hatch. If the cover is difficult to open or creaks, contact the dealership - a replacement is possible under warranty (even if the period has expired, sometimes it is dismissed).

On versions with a diesel engine (2.0 TDI), the fuel filler flap has an additional seal - damage to it may lead to loss of warranty on the fuel system. Be careful when opening forcibly!

6. How to prevent problems with the gas filler flap

To avoid damage to the opening mechanism, follow these simple recommendations:

• 🧴 Treat once every 3 months silicone grease (for example, CRC 5-56) cable and hinges of the hatch. This will prevent corrosion and icing.
• 🚿 After washing the car, check to see if water has gotten into the crack of the hatch. If necessary, dry it with compressed air.
• ❄️ In winter, before refueling, warm up the car for 5–10 minutes - this will melt any possible ice in the mechanism.
• 🔧 Once a year (for example, during maintenance), ask the technician to check cable tension and the condition of the plastic latches.

If you often drive off-road, install safety net on the gas tank flap (part no. 5E0 803 601 for Kodiaq). It will prevent dirt and sand from getting into the mechanism.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to open the gas tank flap on ŠKODA Kodiaq without a key if the battery is dead?

Yes, use it emergency rope in the trunk. It is located under the floor, on the side of the hatch, and has an orange loop. If the trunk also does not open, you will have to remove the rear wing trim (for this you need access to the interior through the door).

Why does the hatch open but not close back?

This is a typical problem for Kodiaq 2017–2019. Reasons:

• Jammed microswitch in the mechanism (needs cleaning or replacement).
• Bent cable - requires adjustment or replacement.
• Crashes control unit central locking (needs diagnostics).

Temporary solution: Close the hatch manually by pressing until it clicks.

Where is the fuel filler flap fuse located?

fuse F37 (10A) located in main fuse box under the steering wheel. To get to it:

1. Open the unit cover (it is secured with two latches).
2. Find the fuse according to the diagram on the back of the cover.
3. Remove it with tweezers and check for integrity.

If the fuse is blown, replace it with a similar one (10A). If it burns out repeatedly, look for a short circuit in the wiring.

Is it possible to install a fuel filler flap with a lock on Kodiaq?

Yes, but it will require some work. Standard hatch on ŠKODA Kodiaq does not have a lock, but you can:

• Buy hatch from VW Tiguan (article 5N0 803 601 C) - it fits the fastenings and has a key lock.
• Install additional latch with a cable (for example, from Hella).

Cost of remodeling: from 5,000 rubles (including work). Please note that this may affect the warranty (if the vehicle is under warranty).

What to do if the hatch opens while driving?

This is a dangerous situation as the cover may fly off and damage other vehicles. Actions:

1. Pull over to the side of the road and turn off the engine.
2. Close the hatch manually (press until it clicks).
3. Check the locking - if the lid opens again, secure it electrical tape (temporary solution).
4. Contact the service for diagnostics microswitch or cable.

The cause is usually a malfunction closing sensor or loose cable.