Just got a mini cooper . It seems to have an issue with the gas locking latch. From what I read, the key fob unlocks and locks the fuel filler door. However the fuel door is always unlocked.

I noticed the little pin that holds the door is always in the unlocked position. What could be the issue?

 

Perhaps a faulty actuator. Does the locking pin try to move when you lock/unlock? I would check to see if it's getting any power when you lock/unlock. If it isnt getting juice, idk. Bad wiring (not likely) maybe disconnected connector.
Does the lock pin appear bent or damaged?

 

Make sure the manual release isn't stuck in the release position

 

Where's the manual release? Didn't even know...

 

In the boot, drivers side, behind a panel.

 

So I see a white plastic lever behind the panel. Is that the release? Can you take quick picture of the release?

 

That's probably it, I can't take a picture of mine, sorry. Try to move that lever. It doesn't rotate, it slides back and forth. I'm guessing you have an older Mini, 2005ish? There is a youtube video of the mechanism out of the car and how it works. Can't give a link from work.

 

That was it. I was trying to tilt it . It works now, thanks.

 

Was it just stuck or what?

 

This is a double edged sword. I was driving home from work one cold evening and pulled in to get gas. The lock had frozen and wouldn't unlock so I was stranded and could not fuel up. This happened 5 or 6 times before I got so sick of it's awful design that I yanked it so hard it came lose and now I never have to worry about it again. If someone is good enough to siphon my fuel without me seeing than have it.