Yes. Open the hood of a 2020 Honda Civic by pulling the interior hood release, then releasing the exterior latch at the front and lifting the hood.
In this guide, we outline a safe, two-stage process used by the Civic, covering both sedan and hatchback variants. You’ll learn where to find the interior lever, how to locate the front latch, and how the hood is supported once it’s open.
Two-stage hood release: interior and exterior latches
Follow these steps in order to access the engine bay safely. The Civic uses a two-stage release: an interior lever inside the driver’s footwell, and a secondary catch at the front edge of the hood.
- Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and ensure the transmission is in Park (automatic) or in Neutral with the parking brake engaged (manual). If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for a few minutes before touching engine components.
- Inside the cabin, locate and pull the interior hood release lever. On most 2020 Civics, the lever is near the driver’s side kick panel, under the dashboard, and features a small hood icon.
- Move to the front of the vehicle and locate the exterior secondary latch at the front edge of the hood, typically centered near the grille. Push or slide the latch to release it while you lift the hood slightly with the other hand to feel it release.
- Lift the hood slowly and let it rest securely on the hood struts. Most 2020 Civics use gas-filled struts to hold the hood open, so you don’t need a prop rod. Keep hands, hair, and clothing clear of the hinges and moving parts.
Closing note: If the hood doesn’t stay up on its own or you hear unusual noises, stop and double-check the latch alignment. Do not continue if the hood feels unstable.
Safety considerations
Before you inspect or work under the hood, observe these precautions to minimize risk:
- Ensure the engine is off and has cooled before touching components.
- Engage the parking brake and place the transmission in the correct gear.
- Avoid loose clothing, ties, or long hair that could snag on moving parts.
- Keep fingers and hands clear of the latch area while releasing the exterior catch to prevent pinching injuries.
If the hood won’t latch after release, or if you notice any misalignment or damage to the latch or hood, do not force it. Consult the owner's manual or contact a Honda dealer for service.
Summary
Opening the hood on a 2020 Honda Civic is a straightforward two-step process: use the interior hood release, then operate the exterior front latch to lift the hood. Always start with a cool engine, secure the vehicle, and ensure the hood is properly supported by the hydraulic struts before performing any checks or maintenance inside the engine bay.