What is a hood release cable and where is it located?

Your vehicle uses two latches to keep the hood closed. They ensure that the hood doesn’t fly open and block your vision at highway speeds, which would, of course, be highly dangerous. They must also, however, allow the hood to open at command so you can work under the hood to make repairs or even to perform simple tasks like adding windshield washer fluid. 

The first latch is connected by a cable to a handle inside your cockpit. When you pull the handle, the cable releases the latch and lets the hood pop up a couple of inches, allowing you access to the second latch. This second latch ensures that the hood does not fly all the way up towards the windshield, which would be a bummer, and lets you open the hood all the way by releasing it manually.

The cable for the first latch runs from the handle inside the cockpit along the driver side fender well to the latch near the driver’s side headlight. If this cable becomes rusted, worn, damaged, or misaligned, it might leave you unable to open your hood.

How do I know if my hood latch cable needs to be replaced?

Unfortunately, you might find out that your hood release cable needs to be replaced when you go to pop your hood and nothing happens. If the cable is broken or jammed, it might not be able to open the hood latch. Accidents that damage the hood may also move the cable out of proper alignment, again leaving you unable to open the hood. A less pressing issue may be wear in the handle, making it difficult to operate. Some hood latch cables can be purchased with a new handle attached.  

Can I replace a hood release cable myself?

Replacing the hood latch cable presents something of a catch-22. In order to do so, you must, somehow, gain access to the hood. It is possible to manually release the latch with a screwdriver, pliers, or a coat hanger. The latch will usually be a hook-like object behind the grill, near the radiator support. With luck, that should be the most difficult part of replacing your hood release cable. You’ll simply have to thread out the old cable and thread the new one through and attach it. It’s likely you’ll be able to do this without removing any other parts. Take note of the path of the cable. It must be taut in order to function properly, and so it will only be just long enough to cover its prearranged path. 

Need a hood release cable replacement?

It really helps to be able to open your hood - really. If you need a hood release cable replacement, you have come to the right place! At 1A Auto, we have just what you need to repair or replace broken or defective hood cables and bring back the safety and integrity of a safely latched hood. We carry aftermarket hood release cables for many makes and models, and all at great prices.

At 1A Auto, we make shopping for replacement hood release cables for your car, truck, SUV or van easy - we're here to help you select the right part for your vehicle! Call our customer service toll free at 888-844-3393 if you have any questions about our products, warranty, compatibility or to purchase, or you can buy online.