How do I open the hood on a 2020 Ford F150?

[McTessa]

Opening the hood on a 2020 Ford F-150 involves a simple two-step process: an interior release lever and an exterior safety catch. The procedure is standardized across this model year and similar to other full-size trucks, requiring no tools.

First, locate the primary hood release lever inside the cabin. It is situated on the driver's side, specifically on the lower left portion of the dashboard near the parking brake pedal. Pull this lever firmly toward you until you hear or feel a distinct click. This action disengages the primary latch, causing the hood to pop up slightly at the front.

Next, walk to the front of the truck. You will see the hood slightly ajar. Reach your hand into the gap at the center of the grille, just above the prominent Ford emblem. Inside, you will feel a secondary safety latch, typically colored bright yellow or black for high visibility. Push this latch to the left (towards the passenger side) while simultaneously lifting the hood. The hood is supported by robust hydraulic struts, so it will raise easily and stay in the fully open position without needing a prop rod.

To close, gently lower the hood until it is about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) from the latch, then let it drop. This ensures the latch engages securely. Do not push down on the hood with your hands, as this can damage the sheet metal.

Step	Location	Action	Key Visual/Physical Cue
1. Primary Release	Driver's footwell, left of parking brake	Pull lever firmly toward seat	Audible click, hood front pops up
2. Safety Latch Release	Front grille center, above emblem	Reach in, push latch left, lift hood	Yellow/black lever; hood lifts with strut support
3. Closing	Front of vehicle	Lower hood from 6-8 inches, release	Firm closing sound indicates secure latch

A common point of confusion is the safety latch. If the hood doesn’t open after pulling the interior lever, you likely haven’t fully disengaged this secondary catch. Ensure you push it fully to the side. If the interior lever feels loose or the hood doesn’t pop, the cable may need adjustment—a known issue addressed by dealership service bulletins. Forcing components can cause damage; consulting the owner’s manual or a certified technician is advised for persistent issues.

[VonClara]

Just got my used 2020 F-150 last month and had to figure this out at the gas station. Felt a bit silly, honestly. The trick is there are two latches, not one. Inside, you yank a handle near your left foot. Then, you have to go outside and feel around in the front grille for another lever. Mine’s yellow. You push it sideways and lift. The hood kinda holds itself up, which is nice. Slamming it shut felt wrong, but you just let it drop from about half a foot up and it clicks fine.

[MacMiles]

As a mechanic, I see people struggle with this all the time. The 2020 F-150 uses a standard dual-latch system for safety. The interior cable release is sturdy, but don’t yank it violently—a firm, steady pull is enough. The exterior safety catch is the main hurdle. You must get your fingers through the grille opening. It’s designed to be operated from directly in front of the vehicle. If the hood seems stuck after the first pull, never force it. A common fix is to have a helper gently press down on the hood while you pull the interior lever again to reset the tension. Also, periodically lubricate the latch mechanism with white lithium grease to prevent seizing, especially in winter climates.

[MirandaDella]

Here’s the simplest way to remember it: Pull, Walk, Flip, Lift.

1. Pull the handle under the dash by your left knee.
2. Walk to the front of the truck.
3. Flip the yellow lever you find inside the grille to the left.
4. Lift the hood all the way up. It’s that straightforward. The most important part is step three—if you miss that hidden latch, you’re not getting it open. Closing is just a gentle drop from a short height.

[AugustFitz]

I’ve owned my 2020 F-150 since new, and the process is second nature now. What I appreciate is the safety logic: that secondary latch in the grille prevents accidental opening while driving. From my experience, the action of the interior lever requires a solid pull, more than you might expect. When you go to the front, don’t just look—actually reach your hand in. The yellow tab is unmistakable. The hydraulic struts are strong; on a very cold morning, they might raise a bit slower, but they’ve never failed. My advice for closing mirrors the manual: don’t “place” it shut. Lower it until it’s about the width of a soda can from closing, then let gravity do the work. That ensures a clean, secure latch every time and protects the leading edge of the hood from dents.