Opening the hood on a Jeep Cherokee is a common maintenance task. In most Cherokees, you start by pulling an interior hood release, then release the exterior latch at the front to lift the hood. On newer KL-model Cherokees, the hood is held up by gas struts, so you simply lift it once the latches are released. This guide covers how to do it safely across generations and what to watch for if something doesn’t seem right.
Understanding the hood latch system across generations
Jeep Cherokees have used slightly different hood-release setups over the years. In many older models, you operate an interior latch to pop the hood and then disengage a front-facing secondary latch to fully open it. Newer Cherokees (notably the KL generation from 2014 onward) use gas struts to hold the hood open, so there’s typically no need for a manual prop rod. If you’re unsure which system your Cherokee has, consult the owner's manual or a dealership service bulletin for your exact year and trim.
Step-by-step guide
Before starting the steps, note that the process is largely the same across generations, with small variations. Follow each step in order for a smooth and safe hood open.
- Inside the cabin, locate the hood release lever near the driver's side kick panel and pull it firmly. You should hear the primary latch pop, and the hood may lift slightly.
- Go to the front of the vehicle and locate the secondary latch on the front edge of the hood, centered behind the grille. Use your fingers to release the secondary latch while gently lifting the hood edge. If the hood doesn’t rise enough, gently lift the center of the hood with your other hand as you release the latch.
- Raise the hood fully. On KL-model Cherokees, gas struts will hold the hood open on their own. If you have a older model that uses a prop rod, secure the rod into the designated support hole to keep the hood from falling.
- To close, lower the hood to a few inches above the latch, then press down firmly with even force until it clicks into place. Do not slam the hood.
Opening the hood correctly reduces the risk of accidentally bending the hood or injuring yourself. If the interior release doesn’t pop the hood fully, you may need to apply slight upward pressure on the center of the hood while pulling the release to help release the secondary latch.
Safety tips
These precautions help ensure you stay safe while opening and handling the hood.
- Always make sure the engine is off and has cooled before placing your hands near the engine components.
- Keep hair, clothing, and jewelry clear of moving parts and the latch area.
- Use both hands and your body to support the hood edge when releasing the latch and lifting.
- Do not rely on the hood to stay open if you notice a weak or failed gas strut; avoid leaning on the hood in that case and consider replacing the struts or using a proper support if needed.
- When closing, avoid slamming the hood; let it settle with a firm, controlled press to engage the latch.
Following these safety tips helps prevent burns, pinched fingers, or accidental hood slams while you inspect or service the engine.
Common issues and troubleshooting
What to do if the interior latch won’t release
If pulling the interior hood release does not pop the hood, try these steps: confirm you’re pulling the correct lever (near the driver’s side kick panel), check that the hood is not already partially open, and gently nudge the hood from the center while pulling the release to help release the secondary latch. If the hood still won’t release, do not force it; this may indicate a stretched or broken cable and should be inspected by a professional.
What to do if the hood won’t stay open or won’t close securely
If the hood does not stay open on its own (no gas struts or a faulty strut) or fails to latch securely when closing, inspect the hood hinges and latch for damage, and check the hood edges for warping or debris. For gas-strut failure on newer models, replace the struts to restore proper support. If you’re unsure, consult a mechanic to avoid the hood unexpectedly dropping while you’re working under it.
Summary
Opening a Jeep Cherokee hood starts with the interior release, then the exterior secondary latch. On modern Cherokees, gas struts hold the hood up once released, eliminating the need for a prop rod. The steps are consistent across generations, with small variations in latch design. Always prioritize safety: turn off the engine, keep hands clear of moving parts, and avoid forcing a stubborn latch. If you encounter persistent issues, consult the owner's manual or seek professional assistance to prevent damage.