Pull the interior hood release, then go to the front to release the secondary latch and lift the hood.
On a 2015 Honda CR-V, the release sequence is straightforward: inside the cabin on the driver’s side is the hood release handle; at the front edge of the hood is a secondary latch you must release before the hood will lift. The hood is held up by gas struts, not a prop rod, on most trims.
What you’ll need to know
Before you start, park on a flat surface, ensure the engine is cool, and locate the two release points: the interior hood latch and the front secondary latch.
Step-by-step opening guide
Following these steps will allow you to safely open the hood of a 2015 CR-V.
- Stay seated in the driver's seat and locate the hood release lever beneath the dash on the left side of the pedals. The handle is typically orange or yellow and marked with a hood icon.
- Pull the interior hood release lever firmly. You should hear the hood unlatch slightly and the hood edge raise a few inches.
- Move to the front of the vehicle and stand directly in front of the grille. Feel along the edge of the hood for the secondary latch located near the center of the hood’s front edge.
- Disengage the secondary latch: press or slide the lever to release the catch while supporting the hood with your other hand. Do not force the hood up while the latch is engaged.
- Lift the hood with both hands. If your model uses gas-filled struts, the hood will stay open on its own; if it uses a prop rod, secure it in the prop rod holder before you begin work.
The exact feel of the secondary latch can vary, but you should hear or feel a click when it releases. Once the hood is up, the gas struts (or a safe prop rod, if equipped) will hold it in place while you inspect or service the engine bay.
Safety checks and tips
Use these precautions to avoid injury or damage while the hood is open.
- Ensure the engine is completely cool before touching components to prevent burns.
- Keep hands, clothing, and long hair clear of the hinges and latch mechanism.
- Do not press down on the hood while releasing the latch to avoid bending the panel.
- If the hood doesn’t stay up, check the hood struts for proper operation or confirm whether your model uses a prop rod and ensure it’s properly engaged.
If you encounter trouble opening the hood or if the latch feels stuck, consult the owner's manual for model-specific guidance or contact a Honda service center for assistance. Variations can occur by trim or aftermarket modifications.
Troubleshooting: hood won’t open
If the interior release works but the hood won’t release at the front, the latch mechanism or cable could be misaligned or damaged. Do not force the hood. Have a technician inspect the latch, hinges, or linkage to avoid bending the hood or causing injury.
Closing the hood
To close the hood, lower it until it is a few inches above the latch, then press down firmly in the center until you hear the latch engage. Do not slam the hood from a height, as this can misalign or damage the latch.
Summary
Opening the hood on a 2015 Honda CR-V involves pulling the interior release, releasing the front secondary latch, and lifting the hood. Most trims use gas struts to hold the hood open, though some may employ a prop rod. Always work with the engine cool and handle the latches and hinges gently. If problems arise, consult the owner's manual or a Honda dealer for assistance.