The quickest way is to pull the interior hood release on the driver’s side, then release the front latch and lift the hood. On newer CR-Vs the hood is held up by gas struts, while older models may use a manual prop rod.
Step-by-step: inside the cabin to the latch
The following steps describe the standard process to release and lift the hood. They apply to most CR-V generations, but if your vehicle uses a prop rod, you’ll follow a slightly different step when securing the hood.
- From the driver's seat, locate the interior hood release lever under the dashboard, near the left kick panel. It typically has a hood icon.
- Pull the lever firmly; you should hear a soft pop as the hood latch releases the front edge.
- Move to the front of the vehicle and stand in front of the grille. Find the secondary latch along the center edge of the hood at the top of the grille.
- Push or slide the secondary latch to release it while lifting the hood with your other hand.
- Lift the hood to the desired height. If your CR-V uses gas struts, it will hold the hood open; if it uses a prop rod, continue to the next step to secure the rod.
This sequence provides access to the engine bay for fluids checks, maintenance, or inspection. If the hood is stubborn, double-check that you fully released the interior latch and moved the secondary latch completely to the release position.
Hood supports: gas struts versus prop rod
Honda CR-V generations differ in how the hood is held up. Modern CR-Vs rely on hydraulic gas struts and require no manual prop rod, while older versions may use a prop rod that you insert into a support notch.
- Gas struts: After releasing the front latch, gently lift the hood. The two gas-filled struts will hold the hood open on their own. Do not apply extra force to the hood; lift it to a safe height and let the struts do the work.
- Prop rod: If your hood uses a prop rod, locate the rod near the engine bay, lift it from its clip or holder, and insert its end into the pre-made hole or bracket in the underside of the hood or the engine bay support. Ensure it is securely seated before working under the hood.
- Closing: To close, remove the rod (if used) from its support, return it to its clip, then lower the hood slowly until the latch engages with a slight click. Do not slam the hood.
Note: If you’re unsure which system your model uses, check the owner’s manual for your exact year and trim, or ask a Honda dealer or mechanic. The presence or absence of a prop rod is a quick visual cue: gas struts are visible along the sides of the engine bay, while a prop rod is a single metal rod with a clip.
Safety tips
Before you begin
Make sure the engine is off and cool before touching any components under the hood. Remove the key from the ignition and ensure the area around you is clear to avoid injury.
Working under the hood
Keep hands and clothing away from moving parts. If you need to check fluid levels, use only containers with the engine off and the hood safely supported. Do not place fingers in the latch area while releasing the hood.
Summary
Opening the hood on a Honda CR-V is typically a two-step process: release the interior latch and disengage the front secondary latch, then lift the hood. For most newer CR-Vs, gas struts hold the hood open automatically, while older models may require a prop rod. Always verify your exact model year and trim, and follow safe practices when inspecting or performing maintenance in the engine bay.
Where is the hood latch release?
Another dad tip from Dwayne. If you're a new driver how do I open my hood a lot of people don't know how to open their hood. Simple but not so simple. So it's always going to be on this pillar.
How to pop hood on 2026 Honda CRV?
We're going to take this rod and we're just going to push it to our right. And then push up on the hood. And the hood raises up.
How do I pop the hood on a Honda CR-V?
And it's got a picture of the hood of a car right. There. So here we have the hood has been popped from inside. And I'm going to reach down here.
Where is the hood release on a Honda?
Slip your left hand under the hood. And move the lever to the right then just lift up the hood grab the support rod by the foam rubber handle. And insert it to the receptacle in the hood.