How to fix a hood that won't close
When checking fluid levels or inspecting the battery, the hood should be kept shut until you need to open it.If the latch gets stuck or fails to close, you have a problem on your hand, one that could cause the hood to lift up and block your view.
Most cars have the engine in the front, but some do not.The classic Volkswagen Beetle,Porsche Boxster and Toyota MR2 have the trunk up front and the engine in the back or between the wheels.The front and rear trunks of the Model S are not powered by an engine.
For the sake of most car owners, we assume you have trouble lifting the hood because your engine is located up front.
Most car hoods open by first engaging a release inside the vehicle, usually located beneath the dashboard and to the left of the steering column.The hood should lift an inch or two if you pull the release first.Next, exit the vehicle, slip your fingers under the hood, and you're done.
You have a problem if the hood doesn't move after pulling the release.Two people are trying to get the hood release lever to open by pulling it and the other pressing down on it.
Look through the grille to find the latch if that doesn't work.You may be able to disengage it with a long screwdriver.You can find the latch by removing the grille.To find out how that is done, check your car's repair manual.
You may need to drill through the hood to disengage the latch in a worst-case scenario.You will need to repair the sheet metal later on.
If the hood opens, prop it up.Carefully inspect the mechanism.If the latch is dirty, apply penetrating oil to it.To keep the latch working, follow up with a coating of grease.If the latch is worn out, replace it.
Check the cable that leads to the interior if you are still having problems with the latch.The stop is at the end of the cable.Attach it if it has slipped out of place.Use aerosol spray to Lubricate the cable.
The cable may be showing signs of wear.The trunk release cable needs to be replaced immediately.
The hood may not line up perfectly if your car was damaged in an accident.The best place to get the car hood latch fix is a collision shop.
If you want to check out all of the body and chassis parts that are available on the internet, you can do so at one of our 17,000 locations.Talk to a knowledgeable expert at your local store for more information on the hood latch.
One way to uncover a problem with a vehicle's suspension system is by kicking tires.He learned a few things about G-forces, toe-heel shifting, and how to work the crazy infotainment system in a random weekly driver.A contributor to various print and online media sources, Matt is a member of the Washington automotive press association.