How to close the engine hood of the Envision?
4 Answers
Method to close the engine hood of the Envision: Simply press the engine hood down manually. The engine hood serves to prevent dust and water ingress and to isolate noise. The engine hood (also known as the engine cover) is a prominent body component and one of the parts frequently inspected by car buyers. The main requirements for the engine hood are heat and noise insulation, lightweight construction, and high rigidity. The Envision's body dimensions are 4686mm in length, 1839mm in width, and 1660mm in height. The current model offers two engine options: 1.5T and 2.0T, each available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. The 1.5T engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the 2.0T engine is matched with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Owners of the Envision have probably all encountered issues with closing the hood. I had one experience that left a deep impression on me. That day, after topping up the windshield washer fluid, the hood just wouldn’t close properly. It turned out I was using the wrong method. The correct way is not to press it down hard with your hands, as that can deform the brackets. Instead, lower the hood to about 30 centimeters above the latch, then let it drop on its own. You’ll hear a click when the latch engages—then press down firmly with your palm on the center of the hood to secure it. Through trial and error, I found that the height matters: too low, and it’ll hit the latch; too high, and it won’t lock. Every time after maintenance, the mechanics remind me to check the hood gaps to ensure they’re even on both sides. A poorly closed hood can also affect the seal over time.
I've been driving this Envision for five years and have mastered the hood-closing technique. Many people gently lower it fearing damage, but actually the hood needs gravity to latch properly. My method involves three steps: First retract the metal support rod, hold the hood with both hands and lower it to waist height, then suddenly release for a free fall. The key is decisive release - no cushioning movement. If you don't hear the locking click, it didn't catch and you'll need to lift and repeat. New vehicle hoods are tighter - press firmly on the front edge to confirm secure locking. Avoid doing this in rain/snow as wet metal components may produce strange noises.
When repairing cars, I often hear Buick Enclave owners complain about the difficulty of closing the hood. Actually, it's quite simple if you use the right method. There's no need to press down hard, as that can easily damage the hinges. After opening, first retract the support rod in the engine compartment, then lower the hood to about a foot above the latch and simply let go. Gravity will naturally close the hood, and the latch will engage on its own. Checking if it's properly closed is easy—just lift the front edge of the hood to see if it wobbles. I've seen people trying to close the hood while still holding the support rod, which ended up bending it. If the hood bounces back, it indicates aging parts, and it's time to replace the sealing strip.
