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my petrol filler door locks and unlocks directly via the ignition switch. if the key is in, then the door will open. take the key out then the door will lock. however, sometimes with the key in the ignition the door does not unlock.

also when starting sometimes it catches straight away and other times I have to turn it over longer, even in warm weather.

could these be related to the battery charge or some other electrical issue?

The fuel filler door will have an actuator to lock and unlock the flap and it's not uncommon for actuators to give trouble.

The engine coolant temperature sensor might be receiving an inaccurate reading which can cause difficult starting as the engine management computer cannot distinguish the correct engine temperature. But, it might be service related too.

These faults should be checked by a mechanic to determine what needs to be repaired.