To open the hood, pull the interior hood release, then release the front edge latch; the hood is supported by gas struts and will stay up once opened.
In this guide, we describe the exact steps you’ll follow on a 2025 Pilot, where to locate the latches inside and at the front, and what to do if the latch sticks or won’t stay raised. This procedure is consistent with Honda’s current design across recent Pilot models.
Inside the cabin: locating the interior hood release
Begin by locating and pulling the interior hood release. On the 2025 Pilot, the release is positioned to the left of the driver's knee, under the dash near the kick panel. A clearly labeled handle or lever with a hood icon is pulled firmly until you hear a click, indicating the latch inside the engine bay has released.
Before you proceed to the front, ensure the engine is off, the parking brake is engaged, and the vehicle is on level ground.
Step-by-step: opening the hood
Follow these steps to open the hood safely and reliably.
- Park on a level surface, place the transmission in Park, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine. If the engine or components are hot, allow a cooling period before touching the engine bay.
- Stand in front of the Pilot and locate the secondary hood latch along the front edge of the hood, roughly at the center or slightly to either side under the grille opening.
- From the center, reach under the edge of the hood to find the secondary latch release; push or slide the latch to disengage it. You may hear a light pop as the latch frees.
- With the latch released, carefully lift the hood from the center. The gas-filled struts will support the hood; do not apply excessive force and keep your head away from the opening.
- Raise the hood to its full open position and secure it with the hood stay if your model is equipped; otherwise, the gas struts should hold it in place. Do not prop the hood open with tools or improvised supports.
Once the hood is open, proceed with your inspection or maintenance, then reverse the steps to close the hood, ensuring it is fully latched before driving.
Troubleshooting and safety tips
If the hood won’t release or won’t stay open, try these checks before seeking service. The following tips help reduce the risk of damage to the latch or components.
- Ensure the interior release is fully pulled; you should hear a definite click indicating the latch has released.
- Check for ice, dirt, or debris jammed around the latches; clear the area gently with a flashlight and a soft brush if needed. Do not force the lever.
- If the latch is stiff in cold weather, consider applying a small amount of penetrating lubricant to the exterior latch area and wipe away any excess; avoid getting lubricant into the engine bay.
- Never stand directly in the path of the hood as you release or lift it; keep hands and face clear of the opening.
- If the hood remains closed after the interior release, or you cannot locate or operate the latch, contact a Honda dealer or qualified mechanic for assistance.
Proper maintenance and use will minimize latch issues, but if the hood fails to release safely, professional assistance is recommended.
Summary
Opening the hood on a 2025 Honda Pilot is a two-step process: first use the interior release, then release the front-edge secondary latch and lift the hood. The hood is held by gas struts and should stay open once released. Always work on a level surface with the engine off, and avoid forcing the latch or placing your body in the line of the hood to prevent injury. If you encounter a stubborn or jammed latch, seek professional assistance.