How to open a stuck bonnet

You need to do something in the engine bay, so you pull the release lever (or insert the key behind the badge in the grille on certain models) and instead of the usual clunk, there's the ominous sound of silence. You've got a stuck bonnet. Here's how to solve it.

1. Get some help

Ask an assistant to push down at the front of the bonnet (gently but firmly) while you pull on the release lever again. If the cable is jammed between the lever and the catch, this may free it and the bonnet will pop up as usual.

2. Pull the cable manually

Take a closer look at the release lever. You may be able to release the handle and the trim around it to reveal the cable that's attached to it. If the lever is part of the dashboard, take a look underneath - you should see the cable.

Carefully detach the end of the cable from the mechanism (take a photo of how it was secured to make sure you can put it back) and, using a pair of pliers, grip the end and pull the cable towards you to replicate the motion of the lever.

If the bonnet pops up, the cable is likely to have lost its tension and will need to be replaced. Have another look at the lever, though, because the mechanism may have broken.

3. Work through the grille

On some cars you'll be able to unlatch the bonnet release catch by working a pair of long-reach pliers or similar through the grille.

Look for a hook that the release cable attaches to. Pull this hook with the pliers and the bonnet should open. Take care not to damage the grille as you do this.

4. Jack up the car

If you can't work through the grille, use a trolley jack and axle stands (with the car on solid, level ground, the handbrake on and chocks behind the rear wheels) to raise the front of the car. Do NOT use your car's emergency jack.

Now reach an arm up from behind the front bumper and release the bonnet lever/mechanism. You may be able to peer through the grille with a torch to see what you're doing but will probably need to look up from underneath for the best view.

5. Remove the Wheel Plastic Wheel Arch Liner 

Reach the bonnet cable and pull toward you, some latches opens the bonnet successfully.

After Bonnet Was successfully Open - Lubricate the latch with a lithium spray lubricant if it's jammed. 

Purchase a spray lubricant—ideally lithium-based—with a bendable straw at the nozzle at least 8 inches (20 cm) long. Insert it into your grill or from underneath your car and apply it generously to the latch. Often, broken or stuck latches can be remedied with lubrication.

• Be sure to wear safety goggles if you apply the lubricant from underneath the car.
• Never use silicone spray as it can contaminate the oxygen sensor and impair engine performance.

Adjust the latch mechanism if it's misaligned. In many cases, latches don't work properly because they become misaligned. After locating the latch, loosen the bolts that hold it in place just enough that you can move it. Move it side-to-side so it aligns with the opening in the inner panel of the hood. Now, move the latch up and down until it fits flush between the fenders and the top of the hood while the hood is pressed upward. Finally, tighten the latch bolts.

• Open and close your hood afterward to ensure it works properly.