How to Open the Car Engine Hood?
3 Answers
Method to open the car engine hood: There is an interior release lever located below the dashboard, opposite the driver's left leg. Pull this lever to unlock the engine compartment hood. Then, pull the small handle extending from the grille or reach under the slightly raised edge of the hood to release the secondary latch, allowing the hood to open fully. If steam or coolant is escaping from the engine compartment, do not open the hood. Wait until there is no steam, smoke, or coolant escaping and the engine has cooled down before attempting to open the hood. After closing the hood, ensure it is properly secured by checking that it is flush with the adjacent body panels.
Opening the hood isn't actually difficult. When I first drove a car, I also fumbled around inside for quite a while. Near the driver's seat on the lower left side close to the door, there's usually a small lever with an engine icon. Pull it up firmly and you'll hear a 'click' as the hood pops open. Then walk to the front of the car, slide your fingers into the middle gap of the hood, feel for a metal tab that can be flipped upward, and while lifting the hood with your other hand, it should open. Remember to check if the support rod is securely locked in place—last time I didn't fasten it properly and got my hand hit by the hood. It's best to turn off the engine before operating, as opening the hood when it's hot can cause burns, especially in summer.
The way to open the hood varies significantly across different car models, as I've learned from driving over a dozen types. Most cars have a release lever at the lower left corner of the dashboard, but SUVs often place it on the side of the seat, and older Mercedes models even hide it above the accelerator pedal. After popping the first latch, some cars require pressing a hidden button above the emblem, while others need you to pinch a small lever within the grille. Hydraulic struts make it much easier, but with older cars using support rods, be mindful of the slot position. Beginners should check the owner's manual to locate the release lever, and never force it open to avoid bending the latch if it doesn't release.
