Hood release

[mcgodx]

I'm not sure if this is the right forum, so excuse me if I'm wrong.

On my 2000 Explorer XLT, the hood release doesn't work. When I pull the release in the cab, there's no pull (like there would be, right before the hood comes unlatched). I looked under the dash, and it's connected to the release. I tried prying it open with a screw driver from the grille, but I can't get to the first release (I think it's behind a metal plate).

I tried reaching up from under the car, but it looked like a tight fit. I thought I should probably know what I'm doing before I hassle with that.

So, I was wondering if any of you knew how to fix it. I don't really want to have to pay someone to get it opened. Thanks.

 

[MONMIX]

some what of a common problem.
Usually it has been a broken cable at the latch end, but some times it is just a dry latch in need of some lube.

That being said if you have a 8mm shallow socket, a 10 inch exension and a swivle all 1/4 inch you are in luck.

The hood latch is held on by just two 8mm bolts. All you need to do in finagle the tool up in there and loosen the bolts. A few cranks loose and you should be able to shimmy the hood open.

When you fix the problem just line the latch up with the bolt marks and you should be back in business.

Lemmie know how it goes.

Hey, welcome to the site
Dont be a stranger

 

[mcgodx]

Thanks. I don't have a 10 inch extender, only a 6 inch one. I could probably find one, though. Thanks for telling me how it's held on there, though.

I'll get it fixed on Wednesday.

 

[gijoecam]

Before you go through all that effort, snag a neighbor, friend, significant other, orstranger at a gas station and have them give you a hand. Have them pull the hood release and hold it while you pull up on the hood. I have to shoot mine with WD-40 or some silicone spray about 3 times each year for the same reason. The primary latch simply corrodes in place, that's all. I've seen that 99 times out of 100 that's all it takes to get it fixed.

-Joe

 

[joshfig]

I have the same issue, but on mine, it seems like the cable is streched. I have to pull all the way, and then a little more. Then it releases.

Anyone know how to tighten that cable?

 

[mcgodx]

Before you go through all that effort, snag a neighbor, friend, significant other, orstranger at a gas station and have them give you a hand. Have them pull the hood release and hold it while you pull up on the hood. I have to shoot mine with WD-40 or some silicone spray about 3 times each year for the same reason. The primary latch simply corrodes in place, that's all. I've seen that 99 times out of 100 that's all it takes to get it fixed.

-Joe

That'd be nice if that's all it is. Thanks for the tip. I'm getting a tool from my grandpa (don't have a long extender), and I'll try that out when I go over there.

 

[Runnin'OnEmpty]

You might also push down on the hood, while a helper is pulling the hood release. That'll relieve some pressure on the hood latch, and maybe be enough for it to release.

 

[mcgodx]

Okay, I finally got it fixed. We tried to get a socket up to the two bolts, but couldn't seem to (transmission cooler (?) in the way). So, we called the Mexican neighbor over to help out. He's been gone the past few days, otherwise I'd have called him over in the first place. Anyways, he reached right up in there, and fixed it easy. By pulling on the cable. I feel stupid, for that. But I guess it doesn't matter, I couldn't reach up that far anyways.

After that, I took the latch off, lubricated it, put it back, and it works like new.

The dealership said I had to get a new one... haha.