Why Does the Tiguan's Hood Open Automatically?
2 Answers
First, remove the left front headlight cover of the Tiguan by unscrewing two bolts with a T-30 torx bit. This will allow access to the cable location. Be sure to keep the screws safe. Next, use a small flathead screwdriver to pry open the two plastic clips on the upper cover plate. This will enable the removal of the small hood cable box. The Tiguan's hood cable is secured inside the small box and needs to be manually removed. This will separate the front and rear cables. After trimming a small section, the position of the rear cable clip will move forward, ensuring the front cable is not too tight. If it's not tight, it won't open automatically.
I once experienced the hood of my Tiguan popping open on its own, which was really frustrating. The common causes for this issue include accidental activation of the remote key, such as pressing the unlock button when the key is squeezed in a pocket, or aging and rusting of the hood latch that fails to hold the spring tension. I've also encountered a broken cable, which becomes brittle and snaps after prolonged use. This problem is more likely to occur in cold weather when plastic parts freeze and crack, leading to insecure locking. If this happens, you should immediately pull over to check if the hood is properly closed and press it shut if necessary. Don't underestimate this issue—having the hood suddenly pop open while driving can severely obstruct your view and is extremely dangerous, potentially causing accidents. It's advisable to have the mechanic thoroughly inspect the locking system and cables during regular maintenance sessions. Prevention is key, and it saves a lot of hassle in the long run.
