Kia Sorento XM Owner's Manual.

Opening the Fuel Filler Door

~4min read
The fuel filler lid must be opened from inside the vehicle by pressing the fuel

The fuel filler door must be opened from inside the vehicle by pressing the fuel filler door opener button on the driver's door (if equipped).

✽ NOTICE

If the fuel filler door cannot be opened due to ice forming around it, lightly tap or press on the door to break the ice and free the door. Do not pry on the door. If necessary, spray the area around the door with an approved de-icer (do not use engine coolant antifreeze) or move the vehicle to a warm place and allow the ice to melt.

1. Stop the engine.

1. Stop the engine.

2. To open the fuel filler cap, press the fuel filler door opener button.

3. Open the fuel filler cap (1).

4. To remove the cap, turn the fuel filler cap (2) counterclockwise.

5. Refuel as needed.

Closing the Fuel Filler Door

1. To install the cap, turn it clockwise until it clicks. This indicates the cap is securely tightened.

2. Close the fuel filler cap and press it lightly to make sure it is securely closed.

✽ NOTICE

A intermittent clicking noise may be heard near the fuel filler opening while the engine is running at idle if the fuel cap is not tightened properly. This is usually caused by the OBD system.

✽ NOTICE

When the vehicle is fully refueled on an incline, the fuel level gauge may not indicate the F (Full) position. This is not a malfunction. If you move the vehicle to a level surface, the fuel level gauge will move to the Full position.

WARNING - Refueling

  • If fuel is under pressure, it may spray out and cover your clothing or skin, creating a risk of fire and burns. Always remove the fuel cap carefully and slowly. If the cap releases fuel or you hear a hissing sound, wait until the sound stops before fully removing the cap.
  • Do not top off the tank after the nozzle has automatically shut off during refueling.
  • Tighten the cap until it clicks once. Otherwise, the Check Engine illuminate. light will
    illuminate.
  • Always check that the fuel filler cap is installed securely to prevent fuel spillage in the event of an accident.

WARNING - Fuel Filling Hazard.

Motor fuel is flammable. Follow these instructions carefully when refueling. Failure to follow these precautions may result in serious personal injury, severe burns, or death from fire or explosion.

  • Read and follow all warnings posted at the filling station.
  • Before refueling, note the location of the emergency fuel shut-off switch, if equipped at the station.
  • Before touching the fuel nozzle, discharge any potential static electricity by touching a metal part of the vehicle body away from the filler neck, nozzle, or other source of fuel vapor.
  • Do not re-enter the vehicle after refueling has started. Static electricity may be generated by touching, rubbing, or sliding against any object or fabric (polyester, satin, nylon, etc.) capable of producing static electricity. A static discharge may ignite fuel vapor and cause rapid combustion. If you must re-enter the vehicle, discharge potential static electricity again by touching a metal part of the vehicle body away from the filler neck, nozzle, or other source of fuel vapor before touching the nozzle.
  • When using an approved portable fuel container, always place the container on the ground before refueling. Static electricity discharge from the container may ignite fuel vapor and cause a fire. Once refueling has started, maintain contact with the vehicle until refueling is complete. Use only approved portable plastic fuel containers designed for transporting and storing gasoline.
  • Do not use mobile phones while refueling. Electrical current and/or electronic interference from cellular phones may ignite fuel vapor, causing a fire.
  • Always turn off the engine when refueling. Sparks generated by electrical components related to the engine may ignite fuel vapor, causing a fire. Once refueling is complete, make sure the fuel filler cap and fuel filler door are securely closed before starting the engine.
  • Do NOT use matches or a lighter, do NOT SMOKE, and do not leave a lit cigarette in your vehicle at a gas station, especially while refueling. Automotive fuel is highly flammable and may cause a fire if ignited.
  • If a fire occurs during refueling, leave the vehicle immediately and notify the station attendant, then contact the local fire department or 911. Follow all safety instructions they provide.

CAUTION

  • Always refuel your vehicle in accordance with the fuel requirements recommended in Section 1.
  • If the fuel cap needs to be replaced, use only a genuine Kia fuel cap or an equivalent specified for your vehicle. An incorrect fuel cap may cause a serious malfunction of the fuel system or emission control system.
  • Do not spill fuel on the exterior surfaces of the vehicle. Any type of fuel spilled on painted surfaces may damage the paint.
  • After refueling, make sure the fuel filler cap is securely installed to prevent fuel spillage in the event of an accident.

Emergency Fuel Filler Door Opening

If the fuel filler lid does not open using the remote fuel filler lid release,

If the fuel filler door does not open using the remote fuel filler door release, you can open it manually.

Remove the panel in the luggage compartment. Pull the handle slightly.

CAUTION

Do not pull the handle too hard, otherwise the luggage compartment trim or the release handle may be damaged.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Sorento Owner's Manual quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.