P04B5

  • Powertrain
  • Generic (SAE)
SeveritySeverity level 2 of 5: Not urgent.

Not urgent

Unlikely to affect driveability. Worth resolving so the light does not mask a future fault.

Standard definition

Fuel Fill Door Stuck Open

This code is in our catalogue but has not yet been through editorial review, so the guidance below is limited to what our structured data supports. We publish deeper diagnostic content only after a code has been reviewed — here is why.

In plain English

On vehicles with a motorised fuel fill door (no manual lever) the actuator and position switch report that the door is mechanically stuck open. The motor cannot retract it, typically due to a frozen or dirty hinge, broken cable, or jammed actuator.

A trouble code records what a control module measured. It does not identify which part failed. Test before replacing anything.

Can I keep driving?
Safe to drive
Unlikely to affect driveability. Worth resolving so the light does not mask a future fault.
Urgency
Not urgent
Will it pass emissions
Not affected
Check engine light
Varies
Likely causes
#CauseHow oftenComponent
1Hinge jammed by ice, dirt or debrisVery common
2Actuator linkage or motor brokenCommon
3Carbon or debris buildup preventing free movementOccasional

Ordering reflects how often each cause is responsible in general, not a probability for your vehicle. Confirm by testing.

Components involved
  • Fuel Fill Door
  • Fuel Fill Door Actuator
Sources
Definition
Generic code set (SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6) via the OBDexopen database, dedicated to the public domain under CC0-1.0.
Diagnostic guidance
Written and reviewed in-house. See our editorial policy.
Review status
Awaiting review

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