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Ford Mustang V6 1994-2004: How to Open a Stuck/Stiff Hood

If your Mustang's hood release becomes stuck, there are a few simple tricks you can do to fix the issue.

By Charlie Gaston - September 23, 2015

This article applies to the Ford Mustang V6 (1994-2004).

If the hood release lever in your 1994 to 2004 Ford Mustang stops working, don't panic! There are a few simple tricks you can do to open the hood of your Ford Mustang without causing any damage to the surface of your vehicle or the actual hood release lever. In most cases, you won't need to head down to your local Ford dealership or a local garage for help. However, if, after implementing the tips laid out here, you find that you still cannot open your hood, it's highly recommended that you do seek professional help. You don't want to damage your vehicle when an alternative, easy fix may be available through your local Ford dealer. Let's get started on the easy options that are available to you now.

Materials Needed

  • WD-40 lubricant
  • Rag for cleanup (optional)
  • Screwdriver
  • 8mm socket
  • 1/4-inch drive ratchet

Step 1 – Apply force to the hood

Over time, the manual hood release lever on your Ford Mustang could appear to be more and more difficult to open. If you notice that your hood release lever does not immediately open the hood after one or two initial attempts, it's recommended that you apply some force.

  • Press down on the front end of the hood multiple times to release the hood and access your engine.
Figure 1. Simply press down on the front end of the hood.

Step 2 – Add lubrication to the hood latch

  • If after pressing down on the hood you find that you are still unable to open it, lubricate the entire latch assembly with a high-quality lubricant. While WD-40 is a great product, you can use any lubricant in your garage.
  • Lubricate the entire latch assembly, and then wait several minutes for the lubricant to loosen any rust or other stubborn particle that could be causing the hood release to stick.
  • Apply force as needed when attempting to open the hood once the lubricant has had sufficient time to work.
Figure 2. Spray the lubricant and let it set.

Step 3 – Maneuver the broken latch cable

  • If you notice that the hood release cable has snapped but you are able to grab hold of it, pull the cable to release the hood manually.
  • Depending on how the cable has snapped, this simple trick might work.
  • Also, push down on the hood of the car where the hood release lever is located while simultaneously pulling on the hood release cable.
Figure 3. Example of broken hood release cable.

Pro Tip

It's recommended that you have an assistant for this step. If you feel comfortable doing so, reach through the front grille with a screwdriver. Press down on the hood release lever as your helper pulls up on the hood.

Step 4 – Unbolt the hood latch receiver

  • Unbolt the 8mm bolts that lock the hood latch receiver in place on the radiator support using an 8mm socket with 1/4-inch drive ratchet.
  • Open the hood as wide as possible; if you are stopped by the safety catch, simply release it using your hand or a screwdriver.
  • Release the hood release lever manually, taking care not to damage the cable if it's still attached at this point.
Figure 4. Example of hood latch receiver.

Step 5 – Seek professional help

  • If your hood still does not open, visit your local Ford dealer for professional help. It's highly recommended that you do NOT attempt to pry open your hood using a pry bar or other blunt object.
  • If you notice a button underneath your steering wheel, this can also be used to unlock your hood; however, you'll need a key to access it.
  • If you do not have the key, you'll need to unbolt the lock and completely remove it.
  • Your Ford dealer should be able to assist you in opening the lock if you do not wish to manually remove it.

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