Replacing Fuel Door On Trailblazer: Easy Diy Guide

If the fuel door on your Trailblazer has become unhinged, you can replace it by first removing the bolts holding the hinge to the body of the car. You should be able to see these bolts, and there are probably two of them. Once you've removed these, you can take off the whole hinge and door. You can then install your new fuel door.

Identify the cause of the issue

If your fuel door is stuck open, there are a few potential causes that you can investigate. Firstly, check for a loose fuel door cable. The cable allows the fuel door to open and close, and when it becomes loose, it may no longer function properly, resulting in the fuel door remaining open. Another possible issue is a broken fuel door latch. Many fuel doors have latches that hold the door in place when closed. If this latch breaks, the door may get stuck in the open position.

Additionally, a broken fuel door hinge could be the culprit. Like most doors, the fuel door likely has a hinge that enables it to swing open and closed. If this hinge becomes damaged or too loose, the hinge may not function properly, causing the fuel door to get stuck open.

In some cases, the issue may lie with the fuel pump rather than the fuel door itself. If you suspect this to be the case, you can attempt to access the fuel pump by removing the rear driver's side seat and trimming the rear driver's side door jamb and B pillar trim. Be cautious when performing these steps, as there are wires and fuel lines in the vicinity. Once you have better access to the fuel pump, you can assess the situation and determine if the pump or any associated components require replacement.

Purchase a replacement fuel door

To purchase a replacement fuel door for your Trailblazer, you can opt for either a new or used one.

New Fuel Doors

There are several online retailers that offer new fuel doors for the Trailblazer. A simple search will yield multiple options, with some of the more popular retailers being eBay, CarID, and TrailVoy. These websites offer a range of fuel doors and related components, such as fuel door springs and bumpers, to ensure a proper fit and restore your vehicle to its original condition.

Used Fuel Doors

If you prefer to purchase a used fuel door, you can explore online auto parts recyclers or salvage yards. PartsHotlines, for example, is an online platform that allows you to search for used auto parts by make, model, and your location. You can input your vehicle's information, including the year and ZIP code, to find a recycler near you that may have the fuel door you need.

Considerations

When purchasing a replacement fuel door, it is important to consider the make and model of your Trailblazer, as well as the year of manufacture. This information will help ensure that you find a compatible part. Additionally, if you opt for a used fuel door, it is a good idea to inspect the condition of the part to ensure it is in good working order and free from any significant damage or rust.

By following these steps and considering your specific vehicle's needs, you can successfully purchase a replacement fuel door for your Trailblazer.

Remove the bolts holding the hinge to the body

To remove the bolts holding the hinge to the body, you will need to locate the bolts first. There should be two bolts holding the hinge to the body. They will be visible on the lip to the left of the fuel door opening. Once you have located the bolts, use the appropriate tool to remove them. This will detach the hinge from the body of the Trailblazer, allowing you to replace the fuel door.

It is important to note that the fuel door and hinge may come apart or may be one unit. In the case that they are one unit, you will need to separate them before you can fully remove the fuel door. This process may require some force, but it should not be difficult for someone with fairly good mechanical skills.

Before beginning this process, ensure that you have the necessary tools and that you are working in a safe and well-lit environment. It is also recommended to have a basic understanding of automotive repair and maintenance before attempting to remove or replace any parts on your vehicle. If you are unsure about any steps or procedures, it is best to consult a professional or seek advice from a qualified mechanic.

By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you will be able to successfully remove the bolts holding the hinge to the body and replace the fuel door on your Trailblazer.

Install the new fuel door

To install the new fuel door on your Trailblazer, follow these steps:

Firstly, you will need to purchase a new fuel door. You can find these online or at auto parts stores. Make sure to get the correct fuel door for your specific Trailblazer model and year. Once you have the new fuel door, you can begin the installation process.

Start by locating the bolts that hold the hinge of the fuel door to the body of the car. There should be two bolts, and they will be visible on the lip to the left of the fuel door opening. Using the appropriate tool, remove these bolts. This will allow you to detach the fuel door and hinge assembly from the car.

Next, take the new fuel door and hinge assembly and position it in the correct place on the body of the car. Make sure that the hinge is properly aligned with the fuel door opening. Once you are satisfied with the positioning, secure the fuel door in place by tightening the bolts that you removed earlier.

Now, you can adjust the fuel door to ensure it opens and closes smoothly. Open and close the fuel door a few times to test its operation. If you notice any issues, you may need to loosen the bolts slightly and adjust the positioning of the hinge before tightening the bolts again.

Finally, inspect your work to ensure that the new fuel door is securely attached and functioning correctly. Test the fuel door by opening and closing it a few more times, and make sure that it latches securely when closed. Once you are satisfied that the new fuel door is installed correctly, your Trailblazer will be ready to hit the road again.

Paint the new fuel door if necessary

If your new fuel door is not the same colour as your Trailblazer, you will need to paint it. You should also paint it if you want to change the colour of your car or personalise it.

Before you start painting, make sure you have a well-ventilated workspace and are wearing protective clothing, including gloves, a mask, and safety goggles.

Clean the new fuel door thoroughly with soap and water to remove any dirt, grease, or debris. Once it is dry, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to. Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth.

Choose a paint that is suitable for the material of your fuel door and apply a primer if necessary. Spray the fuel door with several light coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Once the final coat of paint is dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish. Again, apply several light coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Let the clear coat cure for at least 24 hours before installing the new fuel door.

Frequently asked questions