The hood release inside a 2013 Honda CR-V is located on the driver’s side under the dash near the kick panel. Pull the interior lever to pop the hood, then go to the front to release the secondary latch and lift the hood.
Inside the cabin: locating the release
In most 2013 CR-V models, the interior hood-release lever sits to the left of the steering wheel, tucked under the dash near the kick panel. It’s a small handle with a hood icon, and you may need to lean forward or kneel a bit to feel it.
Step-by-step: opening the hood after the interior release
Follow these steps to fully open the hood after you’ve activated the interior release.
- Park the vehicle, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine. Sit in the driver’s seat and locate the hood-release lever on the left side under the dash near the kick panel.
- Pull the lever firmly. You should hear or feel the hood pop slightly, indicating the primary latch has released.
- Move to the front of the car and stand directly in front of the hood. Feel along the leading edge for the secondary latch centered near the grille.
- Push or slide the secondary latch to fully release the hood. You should hear a second click as it frees.
- Lift the hood with both hands. The CR‑V uses gas-charged hood struts to hold the hood up; no separate prop rod is typically needed. If your model uses a prop rod, secure it in the designated holder before you begin maintenance.
Once opened, ensure the hood is supported securely by the struts before performing any checks in the engine bay.
Troubleshooting and tips
If the interior lever feels stuck or the hood won’t release, avoid forcing it. Try closing and re-opening the lever, check for ice or debris, and apply light penetrating oil to a stubborn latch from the outside only if safe. If the hood won’t stay open, the struts may be worn and require replacement.
Additional notes for 2013 CR-V owners
Model variations exist by trim level or aftermarket modifications, but the interior release location described here remains consistent for the 2013 CR-V. Always consult the owner’s manual for exact latch locations and any model-specific instructions.
Summary
In short, the hood release for a 2013 Honda CR‑V is inside the car on the driver’s side under the dash near the kick panel. Pull the interior lever to pop the hood, then release the front secondary latch to lift the hood, which is held open by gas struts.