How to Open Gas Tank on Maserati Ghibli

Opening the gas tank on a Maserati Ghibli is simple once you know where to look. Unlike many cars, it doesn’t use a traditional lever under the dashboard—instead, it relies on a hidden release mechanism near the fuel door or inside the trunk. This guide walks you through every method, model variation, and troubleshooting tip to make refueling stress-free.

So, you’ve just slid into the driver’s seat of your stunning Maserati Ghibli—leather wrapped around you like a Italian hug, the engine purring with restrained power—and suddenly, you realize: *“Wait… how do I even open the gas tank?”*

Don’t worry. You’re not alone. The Maserati Ghibli, with its sleek, minimalist design and driver-focused cockpit, hides one of the most basic car functions in plain sight—or rather, *out* of sight. Unlike your average sedan with a fuel door release lever under the dashboard or near the driver’s left foot, the Ghibli takes a more… *Maserati* approach. It’s elegant, yes, but also a little mysterious if you’re new to the brand or renting one for a weekend getaway.

This guide is here to demystify the process. Whether you’re a proud owner, a curious enthusiast, or just borrowing a friend’s luxury ride for a special occasion, we’ll walk you through every possible way to open the gas tank on a Maserati Ghibli—step by step, with clarity and confidence. We’ll cover all model years, common pitfalls, emergency fixes, and even tips to keep your refueling experience as smooth as the Ghibli’s ride. By the end, you’ll feel like a seasoned Maserati pro, ready to fill up without a second thought.

Key Takeaways

• No interior fuel lever: The Ghibli doesn’t have a standard footwell or dashboard lever—access is external or trunk-based.
• Fuel door release button: Located on the driver’s side door panel, this button unlocks the fuel flap when the car is unlocked.
• Trunk release method: If the door button fails, a manual release cable is hidden behind the trunk’s right-side panel.
• Model year matters: 2014–2017 models use a different system than 2018–2023 versions—know your year.
• Fuel cap is tethered: The cap stays attached to prevent loss—no need to worry about dropping it.
• Emergency override: Always locate the manual release before long trips in case of electrical failure.
• Premium fuel only: The Ghibli requires 91+ octane gas—using lower grades can damage the engine.

Understanding the Maserati Ghibli Fuel System Design

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Why did Maserati design the fuel tank access the way they did? It all comes down to aesthetics, safety, and brand identity.

Maserati vehicles are crafted with a focus on luxury, performance, and Italian flair. Every detail—from the grille to the gear shifter—is designed to feel intentional and refined. That includes the fuel system. Instead of cluttering the interior with a visible fuel door release lever (which might disrupt the clean lines of the dashboard), Maserati opted for a more integrated, hidden approach.

The fuel tank itself is located on the driver’s side of the vehicle, just behind the rear wheel. The fuel door is flush with the bodywork, maintaining the Ghibli’s aerodynamic profile and sleek silhouette. But here’s the catch: there’s no traditional lever inside the car to pop it open.

Instead, Maserati uses an electronic release system tied to the car’s central locking mechanism. When the car is unlocked—either via the key fob, the door handle sensor, or the interior unlock button—the fuel door becomes accessible. This design choice keeps the interior uncluttered and adds a layer of sophistication.

But what happens if the battery dies? Or if you’re in a rental and the previous driver locked the car with the fuel door still closed? That’s where the backup system comes in—and we’ll cover that in detail later.

Why No Traditional Fuel Lever?

Many drivers expect a lever near the driver’s seat—something you pull to release the fuel door. But Maserati skipped that entirely. Why?

First, it’s about space. The Ghibli’s interior is designed for comfort and elegance. Adding a lever might feel out of place in a cabin that features premium materials, ambient lighting, and intuitive controls.

Second, it’s about security. An electronic release tied to the car’s lock system means the fuel door can’t be opened unless the car is unlocked. This reduces the risk of someone tampering with your fuel cap or siphoning gas—especially important for a high-performance vehicle that often parks in valet or public areas.

Third, it’s about consistency. Maserati uses similar fuel access systems across its lineup, including the Quattroporte and Levante. Once you learn it on one model, you’ll recognize it on others.

So while it might seem confusing at first, the design actually makes sense—once you understand the logic behind it.

Step-by-Step: How to Open the Gas Tank on a Maserati Ghibli

Now, let’s get practical. Here’s exactly how to open the gas tank on your Maserati Ghibli, depending on your model year and situation.

Method 1: Using the Door Panel Release Button (2018–2023 Models)

For newer Ghibli models (2018 and later), the most common and convenient way to open the fuel door is via a hidden button on the driver’s side door panel.

Here’s how it works:

1. **Unlock the car.** Make sure the vehicle is unlocked. You can do this by pressing the unlock button on your key fob, using the keyless entry sensor on the door handle, or pressing the interior unlock button on the dashboard.

2. **Locate the release button.** On the driver’s side door panel, just below the window controls and slightly toward the rear of the door, you’ll find a small, unmarked button. It’s usually flush with the panel and may be black or gray to blend in.

3. **Press the button.** Gently press the button. You should hear a soft *click* as the fuel door unlocks.

4. **Open the fuel door.** Walk to the driver’s side rear of the car, where the fuel door is located. Gently push the door inward, and it should pop open.

5. **Remove the fuel cap.** The cap is tethered to the door, so it won’t fall off. Unscrew it counterclockwise and set it aside (it’ll hang from the tether).

6. **Refuel and close.** After filling up, screw the cap back on clockwise until it clicks. Close the fuel door firmly until it latches.

That’s it! This method is quick, clean, and designed for everyday use.

Method 2: Using the Trunk Release Cable (All Models – Emergency Backup)

What if the door button doesn’t work? Maybe the battery is dead, the electronics are glitching, or you’re in a rental and the previous driver locked the car with the fuel door closed. Don’t panic—there’s a manual override.

Every Maserati Ghibli comes with a hidden manual release cable located in the trunk. Here’s how to access it:

1. **Open the trunk.** Use your key fob or the interior trunk release button.

2. **Remove the right-side trunk panel.** On the right side of the trunk (passenger side when sitting in the car), you’ll see a removable panel covered in carpet or trim. Gently pull it outward to reveal the inner workings.

3. **Locate the fuel release cable.** Inside, you’ll see a red or yellow pull handle or loop—this is the manual fuel door release. It’s usually labeled or color-coded for easy identification.

4. **Pull the cable.** Firmly pull the handle or loop. You should hear a mechanical *clunk* as the fuel door unlocks.

5. **Open the fuel door.** Now, go to the driver’s side of the car and push the fuel door to open it.

6. **Refuel and reset.** After refueling, close the fuel door and reattach the trunk panel.

This method is a lifesaver in emergencies. It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with this location before a long trip—just in case.

Method 3: Key Fob or Door Handle Sensor (2014–2017 Models)

For earlier Ghibli models (2014–2017), the process is slightly different. These vehicles don’t have the door panel button. Instead, the fuel door release is tied directly to the key fob or door handle sensors.

Here’s how it works:

1. **Approach the car with the key fob.** If you have keyless entry, simply walk up to the driver’s side door with the fob in your pocket or bag.

2. **Touch the door handle sensor.** Gently touch the indentation on the driver’s door handle. This unlocks the car and, in most cases, also unlocks the fuel door.

3. **Check the fuel door.** Walk to the driver’s side rear and gently push the fuel door. If it opens, you’re good to go.

4. **If it doesn’t open:** Try pressing the unlock button on the key fob twice—once to unlock the doors, and a second time to unlock the fuel door. Some older models require this double-press sequence.

5. **Manual backup:** If that fails, use the trunk release cable method described above.

These older models rely more heavily on the key fob, so make sure your battery isn’t low. A weak fob signal can prevent the fuel door from unlocking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best design, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.

Fuel Door Won’t Open After Unlocking

If you’ve unlocked the car and pressed the door button (or used the key fob), but the fuel door won’t budge, try these steps:

– **Check the battery.** A weak car battery can prevent electronic systems from working properly. Try jump-starting the car or replacing the key fob battery.
– **Double-check the unlock sequence.** On older models, you may need to press the unlock button twice.
– **Inspect for ice or debris.** In cold weather, the fuel door can freeze shut. Use a de-icer spray or warm water (never hot) to thaw it.
– **Try the trunk release.** If all else fails, use the manual cable in the trunk.

Fuel Cap Won’t Screw Back On

Sometimes, the fuel cap can be tricky to reattach. Here’s what to do:

– **Align the arrows.** Most Maserati fuel caps have an arrow pointing toward the tether. Make sure this arrow lines up with the fuel door hinge when screwing it back on.
– **Don’t overtighten.** Screw it on until you hear a click—overtightening can damage the threads.
– **Check for damage.** If the cap is cracked or the seal is worn, it may not seal properly. Consider replacing it.

Fuel Door Sticks or Won’t Close

If the fuel door won’t latch after refueling:

– **Clean the latch mechanism.** Dirt, salt, or debris can prevent the door from closing. Use a soft brush and mild cleaner to remove buildup.
– **Lubricate the hinges.** A small amount of silicone spray on the hinges can help the door move smoothly.
– **Check for damage.** If the door is bent or the latch is misaligned, it may need professional adjustment.

Tips for a Smooth Refueling Experience

Now that you know how to open the gas tank, here are some pro tips to make refueling your Ghibli even better:

– **Use premium fuel only.** The Ghibli’s twin-turbo V6 engine is designed for 91+ octane gasoline. Using lower-octane fuel can cause knocking, reduced performance, and long-term engine damage.
– **Keep the area clean.** Wipe down the fuel door and cap before opening to prevent dirt from entering the tank.
– **Don’t top off.** Stop filling when the pump clicks off. Overfilling can damage the evaporative emissions system.
– **Check the fuel level regularly.** The Ghibli has a large tank (around 21 gallons), but it’s easy to forget to fill up when you’re enjoying the ride.
– **Know your range.** The Ghibli gets about 20–25 mpg combined, so plan your stops accordingly on long drives.

Final Thoughts: Confidence Behind the Wheel

Opening the gas tank on a Maserati Ghibli might seem like a small thing—but it’s a perfect example of how luxury cars blend form and function in unexpected ways. What starts as a moment of confusion can turn into a satisfying “aha!” when you discover the elegant solution Maserati has built into every detail.

Whether you’re using the sleek door panel button, the reliable trunk cable, or the key fob sensor, you now have the knowledge to handle any situation with confidence. And remember: the Ghibli isn’t just a car—it’s an experience. From the roar of the engine to the whisper of the fuel door opening, every moment is designed to delight.

So the next time you pull up to the pump, take a breath, smile, and open that tank like a true Maserati driver. You’ve earned it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the fuel door release on a Maserati Ghibli?

The fuel door release is located on the driver’s side door panel, just below the window controls. It’s a small, unmarked button that unlocks the fuel door when the car is unlocked.

What if the fuel door won’t open on my Ghibli?

If the door button doesn’t work, use the manual release cable in the trunk. Remove the right-side trunk panel and pull the red or yellow handle to unlock the fuel door.

Do I need a key to open the gas tank on a Maserati Ghibli?

No, you don’t need a physical key. The fuel door unlocks electronically when the car is unlocked via the key fob, door sensor, or interior button.

Can I open the fuel door if the battery is dead?

Yes, use the manual release cable in the trunk. It’s a mechanical override that works even when the car has no power.

What type of gas does a Maserati Ghibli require?

The Ghibli requires premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. Using lower-octane fuel can damage the engine.

Is the fuel cap tethered on a Maserati Ghibli?

Yes, the fuel cap is attached to the fuel door with a tether, so it won’t get lost when refueling.