The hood latch release is typically inside the vehicle, usually on the lower left side of the dash near the driver’s knee. If you can’t find it there, check the driver’s kick panel or near the steering column. After pulling the interior release, you’ll often need to disengage a secondary latch at the front edge of the hood to fully open it.
Interior hood latch release locations
These are the most common interior spots where manufacturers place the hood release. Location can vary by make and model, so if you don’t see it in these spots, consult your owner’s manual.
- Lower left corner of the dash, near the driver's knee or footwell, often labeled with a hood icon.
- Kick panel area on the driver's side, sometimes near the fuse box or steering column.
- Under the steering wheel, with the lever oriented toward the front of the car.
- Some trucks and SUVs place the lever along the door jamb or near the driver’s seat belt anchor.
Interior placements vary by model and manufacturer; if you still can’t locate it, consult the vehicle’s owner manual or contact the dealer for model-specific guidance.
Exterior latch and how to complete the open
After pulling the interior release, you typically must locate and disengage a secondary latch at the front edge of the hood to fully open it. These are the common steps you’ll follow on most cars.
- Walk to the front of the car and locate the secondary release at the hood’s front edge, usually under the center or toward one side near the grille.
- Push, lift, or slide the external latch as required by your vehicle’s design to release the hood from the fully closed position.
- Carefully lift the hood and secure it with the prop rod or ensure the gas struts hold it open; never rely on the primary latch alone to keep the hood open.
If the hood resists or the interior lever feels stuck, stop and seek professional assistance to avoid damaging the latch, hood, or engine components.
Summary
In most cars, look for the interior hood release on the lower left dash or driver’s kick panel. If you find it, you’ll then release a secondary latch at the front edge of the hood to open it fully. Because locations can vary by make and model, consult the owner’s manual or a dealer for model-specific instructions, and never force the latch if it sticks or feels unusual.