Chrome Gas Lid

One of the most fashionable items to come from the Miata aftermarket is the chromed fuel lid. Easy to install, and usually under $100 seems to make this a good cosmetic investment. It's even fully reversible if you ever change your mind.

The model we're installing on this '95 M Edition is an OEM Mazda part and comes pre-assembled and chromed, with the exception of the Allen bolts holding it together. There is also a rubber seal that will be installed later.

 

Start by popping open the fuel lid and remove the gas cap. If yours is tethered on, carefully remove the tether from the fuel filler nozzle. Place a rag into the fuel filler nozzle to keep debris (and bolts) out of your gas tank while you work.

Now may also be a good time to put out your cigar.

You'll need an 8mm socket and a short extension or one with a screwdriver handle to get to the OEM bolts that hold the fuel lid on. Unbolt these two, and the old fuel lid lifts out.

 

Next, look around the fuel nozzle, and you'll see four 8mm bolts. Undo three of the bolts (indicated on the photo), and set them aside for reassembly.

 

At this point, fit the rubber gasket around the edge of the new fuel lid (it fits into a groove that runs around the outer circumference of the unit). Leave the fuel lid open, and fit it down into the fuel nozzle area.

 

Replace the 3 bolts you removed a moment ago through the matching pre-drilled holes in the chromed unit. These need to be torqued to only 25lb-in.

 

Close the fuel lid, and hit the opening lever (inside the car) to make sure everything works properly.

If anything, I think the only bad thing about this piece is it's resiliency to staying clean. They should really include a bottle of chrome polish with the package!

Enjoy your finished product!