I just purchased this 1998 Camry LE over the weekend, and finding things wrong with it that I never even thought to check out prior to buying (private party, didn't tell me).

The gas cap panel won't open when I pull the release! The lever just doesn't "engage" anything. I need to get this repaired before I can fill up.

My question is: How big a problem will this be to repair, and approximately how much might it cost to have it fixed? I already know that a dealership will automatically triple that estimate, but would like to have some number in mind for reference.

Thanks, T.K.

 

Is the leaf spring in the gas cap lid broken? Can you have someone pull the latch while you open the lid?

If it is the spring this is a common problems and low cost DIY repair, the dealer would have the spring.

 

Yes I can open the cover if the lever is raised. I used a bicycle rack stretch rope, wrapped the hook around the lever, held the other end while pulling back, reached for the gas cap panel and pulled it open with a thin wire hook.

I guess necessity is the mother of invention, but how would this look if I were on a date with someone and needed to gas up? (lol).

Must fix soon! Thanks for your reply, T.K.

 

Exactly- it just snaps into place near the hinge of the fuel door. Good luck!

JJ