Gap between fuel filler door switch, fuel filler door may lock Honda's sliding door

The driver's sliding door on some 2011 Honda Odyssey minivans may not unlock or open when activated by the dash switch, remote button or the inside or outside handles.

One likely cause for the condition, reports Honda, is a small gap between the fuel filler door switch and the fuel filler door, which prevents the switch from closing electrically and completing the circuit. That in turn cuts out power to the driver's sliding door. The fix is to install a spacer, part No. 95495K193, on the contact pad of the fuel filler door.

Here's how to go about it:

• Begin by cleaning the switch plunger contact area on the fuel filler door with isopropyl alcohol and a clean shop rag.
• Using the illustration above, peel the adhesive backing from the spacer and attach the spacer to the fuel door in the area shown.
• To complete the fix, close the fuel filler door and confirm that the sliding door is now operational.

"Factory Fixes" is written by Jim DePalma, a 30-year veteran of the auto repair business who has served stints as a service manager, parts manager and ASE-certified technician. His column provides vehicle manufacturers' authentic factory technical service bulletins (TSBs) that have been condensed for easier reading. Mr. DePalma advises that techs always check with a dealer or repair information system for the latest revisions before starting to work on a vehicle. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].