To open the hood, pull the interior hood release lever in the driver's seat to unlatch the hood, then release the front safety latch and lift the hood. On most 2018 Mercedes-Benz models, the hood is held up by gas struts, so a prop rod is not typically needed.
This guide explains where to find the releases, provides a step-by-step process, safety tips, and notes for common 2018 Mercedes variants like the C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, and related SUVs. It also covers what to do if the hood fails to open or stay up.
Where to find the hood releases on a 2018 Mercedes
Most 2018 Mercedes-Benz cars use two stages to open the hood: an interior release lever and a front-level secondary latch. The interior lever unlatches the hood from the main latch; the front latch must be released to fully raise the hood.
Step-by-step: popping the hood
Follow these steps to safely open the hood. The general method remains consistent across 2018 Mercedes sedans and SUVs, though minor differences may exist by model.
- Inside the cabin, locate the hood release lever on the lower left side under the dashboard near the driver's footwell. Pull the lever firmly; you should hear a click indicating the hood is released.
- Move to the front of the car and place your hand under the center front edge of the hood to feel for the secondary safety latch.
- Push or slide the secondary latch to the side (the exact direction can vary by model) while lifting the hood slightly until you feel it release.
- Lift the hood evenly with both hands. The gas struts will hold the hood open, so you typically do not need a prop rod. If the hood feels hesitant to stay up, support it with one hand on the edge while ensuring the struts are functioning.
Closing tip: when you’re finished with maintenance, lower the hood slowly and press it down until you hear a final click to ensure it’s latched securely.
Safety and troubleshooting
Before you begin, ensure the engine is cool and the car is parked on a flat surface. Do not place fingers near the latch when releasing, and never force the hood if it does not release easily. If the interior lever does not release or the hood won’t unlatch, consult the owner's manual or contact a Mercedes service center. A failed hood release can indicate a stuck latch or damaged latch mechanism that may require inspection.
- Always check that the hood is fully latched before driving. A hood that isn’t secured can suddenly open while driving and cause a crash.
- If the hood does not stay open, do not rely on a missing or damaged hood strut; avoid driving with the hood up.
- Be cautious around the engine and fluids; allow the engine to cool before opening or handling components under the hood.
In most cases the two-step release works reliably, but if you experience persistent issues, seek professional help rather than forcing the latch.
What to do after opening the hood
Inspect fluid levels, belts, hoses, and engine components as needed. If you are checking the oil or coolant, use the dipsticks and reservoirs labeled in the engine bay, and ensure the engine is turned off and cooled before touching components.
Summary
Opening a 2018 Mercedes hood involves pulling the interior release, releasing the front safety latch, and lifting the hood, which is typically held up by gas struts. Always verify the hood is fully latched when closing, and consult a professional if the latch or struts show signs of damage or failure.