I have a 231 VW ID3. About 3 weeks ago the charging port / fuel filler cap started to randomly refuse to open. Did a quick Google to see that it was a very common problem across the VW group cars & a few suggested that a squirt of WD40 on the actuator will help. Tried that and the problem improved... For a week or so. The problem came back quickly enough and is now stuck closed more than it opens.
I contacted my local VW garage this week and they said they'd have to inspect it to see what's going on. Brought it in and they diagnosed a failed actuator. And let me know what my warranty expired 2 weeks ago... And that the fix was just over €400. I quizzed them on this because the actuator is only about €20 online. They told me that the entire charging flap assembly needs to be replaced, because it can't be removed without damaging it. I pointed out that that was a pretty serious design flaw, but got nowhere.
Tried escalating it to VW Ireland to see if I could get some good will - no joy. They did say that if I couldn't charge the car and got stuck, then I could call VW breakdown assist, they would have me towed to the garage and I'd be entitled to a courtesy car while the car was fixed - I pointed out that this would cost more than them just honouring the warranty repair, but that didn't land either.
I'm not paying them €400 after this so I think I'll have a go at replacing the actuator myself.
Rant over.