How To Open Jeep Wrangler Hood? [4 Easy Steps]
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The process of opening your Jeep Wrangler’s hood is a bit different compared to regular vehicles. While most vehicles have a way of unlocking the hood from the inside, Jeep Wrangler requires manual operation. However, it should be easy if you know how to open the Jeep Wrangler hood.
To open your Jeep Wrangler’s hood, you will have to unfasten the two latches on the sides of the hood first. Then you can elevate the hood slightly and push the centre catch at one side to undo it. Now your hood should be ready to open up.
There can be many circumstances where you may need to look at what’s under the hood immediately. So it’s better to be well-acquainted with the steps beforehand. These simple steps will help you open your Jeep Wrangler’s hood anywhere, anytime.
4 Easy Steps To Open Jeep Wrangler Hood
The following method should apply to most models of Jeep Wranglers. Although quite a few changes with the features took place through the years, hardly anything changed with the hoods. The general method of opening the Jeep’s hood is explained below.
1. Locate and unhook the side latches
You should find latches on each side of the hood as you go to the front, which you must unhook first. You have to unfasten the latch and draw the lever down simply; then, it should loosen up. Now do the same for the other side as well.
2. Raise the hood slightly and locate the centre latch
After unfastening the side latches, you should be able to raise the hood slightly. Note that you can’t pull the hood up at this point, so don’t force it to open more. But it should be enough to locate and operate the latch on the centre.
3. Push the centre latch and release the hood
As you locate the centre latch, you need to insert your hand slightly to push the lever at one side to unhook the latch. This step is supposed to release the hood and let you lift it completely.
4. Secure the hood with the rod
Now, you should be able to lift the hood. You will find a bar on the hood. Just pull it out and connect it to the base to secure the hood at its open position.
4 Things To Consider When Opening Jeep Wrangler Hood
As you try and open the hood of your Jeep, there are some things that you can consider to make the process go smoothly. Let’s check them out.
1. Close the hood properly
You must double-check and ensure that you’ve closed the hood properly before you start driving again. If your hood is not latched back in its place correctly, it can open up when you’re going, and it can be quite dangerous and cause accidents.
2. Keep an eye on the washer hose
If you’re about to inspect what’s underneath the hood, securing the hood with the rod may not give you adequate space. If you’re planning to move the hood up to the windshield, check the washer hose so it can stay manageable.
3. Check the hood lock (if there’s any)
Some Jeep Wranglers can come with a hood lock installed in the upper center part of the grill, especially if it’s a second-hand purchase. The lock is usually hidden under a flap. You may have to look there and take care of the lock if you cannot raise the hood.
4. Try safety lock catches for security
One major issue with the Jeep Wrangler hoods is that they need to provide more security. You can resolve this issue by installing safety lock catches or a bolt lock to enhance security. These locks are key-operated so that you can control your Jeep’s security.
Problems You May Face When Opening Jeep Wrangler Hood
As you start opening the hood up, you can encounter some obstacles. However, these are nothing serious and can be taken care of quickly. Some problems that you may face are stated below.
1. The centre catch won’t move
The centre catch is what locks the hood in place. If it gets stuck, there’s no way you can open the hood without moving it. If the lever doesn’t budge no matter what you do, you may have to take a closer look at the whole centre catch.
To do that, you will have to take the grille out, as the primary mechanism of the lever is behind the grille. As you do that, you can now try moving the lever back and forth gently to release the hood.
If it still doesn’t move, the catch might be broken, and you may need a replacement. Depending on the model and brand, it can cost you around $50-$80.
2. If your vehicle had some modifications done
Modifications like a grille insert or guard can sometimes complicate your situation. The grille insert is for guarding the grille. Sometimes, it can make it difficult to reach the lock to unfasten the catch and open the hood.
3. Factory latches are not sturdy
The factory latches that come with the Jeep Wrangler are not sturdy enough; they can wear out after long-term use. Also, these latches fail to hold the hood tightly, so you can hear a fluttering sound while driving, even a bit fast.
It can become quite annoying when you drive at a greater speed. The material used in making these latches is soft hence can’t secure the hood tightly enough. It doesn’t mean your hood will open on its own and fly away.
But you can eliminate the fluttering by getting your hands on a sturdy pair of aftermarket latches. Some of these latches even come with lock features to instigate security.
FAQs
Jeep wranglers are pretty famous for their sturdy designs and aesthetic appearance. But, if you’re a new user, you may need to learn how some things function in your vehicle. Following are some frequently asked questions regarding how the hood of a Jeep Wrangler works.
Are Jeep wrangler hoods locked?
Jeep Wrangler hoods are not locked, and none of the factory latches has any lock features to secure the hood. Yes, the latches and the centre catch work fine to hold the hood down in its place, but anyone can open it up since there’s no lock.
What are the black things on a Jeep wrangler hood for?
The black things on a Jeep Wrangler hood are bumpers. These bumpers are there to rest the windshields if you need to fold them down. Remove the wipers first to lean the windshield down to the bumpers.
Do Jeep wrangler hood vents work?
Jeep Wrangler hood vents work. These vents help to channel the hot air out of the engine. The engine, as well as the engine components, can become very hot, especially during the hot summer days. The vents let the hot air vent out and keep the temperature down under the hood.
What is the hook on Jeep wrangler hoods for?
The hook is for tying the windshield if you ever fold it down. Just like the two bumpers, the purpose of this hook is also connected to the windshield. It helps, especially when you intend to drive the Jeep with the windshield down.
Conclusion
Opening the hood of a Jeep Wrangler is not tricky; it’s just different from other vehicles. While most cars let you control the hood from the inside, you will have to open the hood of your Jeep from the outside manually.
The primary process is quite simple. You just unfasten the side latches, unhook the centre catch, and lift the hood. Also, it doesn’t take much time to do this.
However, if you face any problem handling the latches or the centre catch, you should look closely at the parts and check for damage. These parts are readily available and easily replaceable.
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