In brief: pull the interior hood release, then go to the front to release the secondary latch, and lift the hood. On most 2020 Cherokees, the hood is held open by gas struts, so you don’t need a prop rod.
This guide explains the exact steps and safety tips to open the hood without damage, so you can access the engine bay for routine checks or repairs. We’ll cover where to find the latches, how to release them, and what to expect once the hood is open.
What you’ll need
Before you pop the hood, have these items in mind to ensure a smooth and safe process.
- Gloves to protect your hands (optional)
- Flashlight if lighting under the hood is poor
- Rags or towels to clean up any spills or to wipe surfaces
With these basics ready, you can proceed to open the hood confidently.
Steps to pop the hood
The following steps describe how to safely release the hood latch and open the hood on a 2020 Jeep Cherokee. Note that the hood is usually supported by gas struts, so no prop rod is required.
- Park on level ground, turn off the engine, and engage the parking brake. If you have a manual transmission, put the car in gear or first and set the parking brake.
- Inside the vehicle, locate the hood release lever on the driver's side under the dash panel and pull it. You should hear the hood pop up slightly at the front of the vehicle.
- Move to the front of the Cherokee and stand in a safe stance. Feel along the center of the hood edge to locate the secondary latch hidden near the grille.
- With one hand under the edge, push or lift the secondary latch to release the hood from the latch catch. You may feel or hear a click as it frees.
- Raise the hood slowly. If your model uses gas struts, the hood will stay open on its own. Do not force it; if you do, lower the hood and retry, ensuring the latch fully releases. If your model uses a prop rod (rare on newer Cherokees), secure the rod in the designated slot before working in the engine bay.
Take care to keep your head and clothing clear of the edge, and place your other hand on the hood to guide it as it rises to prevent accidental slams.
Safety and troubleshooting tips
If the hood won’t pop or hold open, try these common checks before seeking professional help.
- Confirm you fully released the interior hood latch. You may need to pull it firmly again.
- Check that you are locating and releasing the correct front latch (the secondary latch located beneath the edge of the hood).
- Ensure the engine isn’t excessively hot or the hood isn’t obstructed by components.
If the hood remains stuck or won’t release after multiple attempts, avoid forcing it and contact a mechanic to prevent damage to the hood latch or related components.
Summary
Opening the hood of a 2020 Jeep Cherokee involves releasing the interior hood latch, then the front secondary latch to free the hood, which is typically supported by gas struts. The process is straightforward but requires careful handling to avoid injury or damage. If you encounter trouble, consult the owner’s manual or a certified technician.