How to Open the Hood of an Older Model Focus?

[DeAmara]

Next to the driver's left leg in the Focus, there is a hood release lever. Pulling it will pop the hood open by about 1CM. Then you can reach under the hood to open the yellow safety latch and lift the hood. For most sedans, the hood release lever is located under the dashboard near the driver's left calf, pointing towards the front of the vehicle.

[Clifford]

I'm quite familiar with opening the hood of an old Ford Focus, having driven one for nearly a decade. First, sit in the driver's seat and locate the small pull handle on the floor near your left foot—it's about palm-sized. Give it a firm tug toward you. You'll hear a 'click' as the hood pops open slightly. Then, walk to the front of the car and feel along the lower edge of the hood's center for a hidden metal latch tucked into the gap—you'll usually need to slide your fingers in to reach it. Once found, push the latch toward the driver's seat while lifting the hood with your other hand. The hood will fully release, but don't let go yet! Quickly pull up the hydraulic support rod on the right side and secure it in its slot. Without the rod, the hood could slam down—ouch! Pro tip: If the latch feels stiff from disuse, apply slightly more force, but never use tools to pry it, or you'll risk scratching the paint.