Opening the hood of a Jeep Cherokee requires pulling the release lever inside the cabin, then lifting the safety latch under the front grille. If you are searching for how to open jeep cherokee hood because you are stuck or just bought a used model, this guide will walk you through every step. The process is simple once you know where the two latches are located.
Most Jeep Cherokee models from 2014 to 2023 share a similar hood release system. The interior lever is on the driver side, near the floor. The secondary latch is centered under the front edge of the hood. Let us get into the details so you can pop that hood with confidence.
How To Open Jeep Cherokee Hood
Before you start, make sure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool. This prevents burns and makes the release mechanism work smoothly. Here is the step-by-step process for a standard Jeep Cherokee.
Step 1: Locate The Interior Hood Release Lever
Sit in the driver seat and look down near your left knee. The hood release lever is a small handle, usually black or dark gray, sticking out from the lower dashboard panel. It may be labeled with a hood icon.
- Pull the lever toward you firmly. You should hear a loud pop or click sound from the front of the vehicle.
- If you do not hear a sound, the cable might be loose or disconnected. Try pulling again with a bit more force.
- This action only releases the primary latch. The hood will lift slightly but will not open fully.
Step 2: Go To The Front Of The Vehicle
Walk to the front of the Jeep Cherokee. Stand directly in front of the grille. You will see a small gap between the hood and the front fascia. Slide your fingers under the center of the hood edge.
Feel for a small metal lever or tab. This is the safety latch. It is spring-loaded and must be pushed or lifted to release the hood completely.
Step 3: Release The Safety Latch
Use your left hand to lift the hood slightly while your right hand pushes the safety latch. On most Cherokee models, you push the latch to the left or lift it upward. The exact motion depends on the year.
- Lift the hood about an inch with one hand.
- With your other hand, locate the latch tab under the center of the hood lip.
- Push the tab to the left or pull it toward you until you feel it release.
- Raise the hood fully until the support struts hold it in place.
If the hood does not lift after releasing the safety latch, check that the interior lever was pulled all the way. Sometimes the cable stretches over time.
Step 4: Secure The Hood With The Prop Rod Or Struts
Newer Jeep Cherokee models have gas struts that hold the hood open automatically. Older models (2014-2018) may have a manual prop rod. If you see a metal rod clipped to the hood, pull it out and insert the tip into the slot on the hood hinge.
Always make sure the hood is stable before you lean in to check fluids or work on the engine. A falling hood can cause injury or damage.
Common Issues When Opening The Hood
Sometimes the hood release mechanism gets stuck. This is common on older vehicles or after winter salt exposure. Here are a few problems and fixes.
Interior Lever Feels Loose Or Does Nothing
If you pull the lever and feel no resistance, the cable may have snapped. You will need to access the latch manually from the front. Use a long screwdriver or a coat hanger to reach through the grille and trip the latch.
- Slide a flathead screwdriver between the grille slats near the center.
- Push the latch mechanism to the left or right until it clicks.
- This should release the primary latch so you can lift the hood.
Safety Latch Is Stuck Or Frozen
In cold weather, ice can freeze the safety latch. Pour warm (not boiling) water over the latch area to melt the ice. You can also spray a de-icer or WD-40 into the latch mechanism.
After the ice melts, try the release again. If the latch remains stuck, tap it gently with a hammer or pliers to break the ice seal.
Hood Will Not Close Properly
If the hood does not latch after closing, the release cable may be out of adjustment. Open the hood fully and look at the latch assembly. There is usually a small adjustment screw or nut. Tighten it slightly to pull the cable taut.
Another common cause is debris blocking the latch. Clean the latch area with a rag and apply a little grease to keep it moving smoothly.
Jeep Cherokee Hood Release By Model Year
Different generations of the Jeep Cherokee have slight variations in the hood release system. Here is a breakdown by year range.
2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee (KL Generation)
This generation has the interior lever on the lower left dash. The safety latch is a plastic tab under the center of the hood. Push the tab to the left while lifting the hood. The hood uses manual prop rods on some trims.
2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee (KL Facelift)
The facelifted models have the same interior lever location. The safety latch is metal and requires lifting upward. These models have gas struts, so the hood stays open automatically. No prop rod is needed.
1999-2001 Jeep Cherokee (XJ Generation)
Older XJ models have the release lever under the steering column. The safety latch is a metal lever near the center of the grille. Pull it upward to release. These hoods are heavier and use a prop rod.
2024 And Newer Jeep Cherokee
The newest Cherokee models may have an electronic hood release. Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions. Some models have a button inside the cabin instead of a mechanical lever.
Safety Tips When Opening The Hood
Working under the hood involves risks. Follow these safety guidelines to avoid injury or damage.
- Always open the hood on a flat surface. A sloped driveway can cause the vehicle to roll.
- Let the engine cool for at least 15 minutes before opening the hood. Hot coolant and oil can cause burns.
- Keep loose clothing and hair away from moving parts if the engine is running.
- Use gloves if the latch is dirty or rusty.
- Do not force the hood if it resists. Check for ice or obstructions first.
What To Do If The Hood Release Cable Breaks
A broken cable is frustrating but fixable. You can still open the hood with some tools. Here is how to do it.
- Remove the grille if possible. On some Cherokees, the grille snaps off with clips.
- Reach through the grille opening with a long screwdriver.
- Locate the latch mechanism on the driver side of the radiator support.
- Push or pull the latch arm to release the primary latch.
- Lift the hood and release the safety latch normally.
If you cannot reach the latch, you may need to remove the under-engine cover or access from below. This is a job for a mechanic if you are not comfortable.
How To Lubricate The Hood Latch
Regular lubrication prevents sticking and makes opening easier. Use a silicone spray or white lithium grease. Do not use oil-based lubricants that attract dirt.
- Spray the latch mechanism where the cable attaches.
- Apply grease to the moving parts of the safety latch.
- Open and close the hood a few times to work in the lubricant.
- Wipe away excess to prevent dripping.
Do this every six months or after winter. It takes only a few minutes and saves you from a stuck hood later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you open a Jeep Cherokee hood from the outside?
If the interior lever is broken, you can open the hood from the outside by reaching through the grille with a screwdriver. Locate the latch mechanism near the center and push it to release the primary latch. Then lift the hood and release the safety latch.
Why wont my Jeep Cherokee hood open?
The most common reasons are a broken cable, frozen latch, or debris blocking the mechanism. Check the interior lever for tension. If it feels loose, the cable may be snapped. If it is cold, ice may be the problem.
Where is the hood release on a 2015 Jeep Cherokee?
The hood release lever is on the driver side, under the dashboard near the left knee. It is a small handle that you pull toward you. The safety latch is under the center of the front hood edge.
Can I open the hood if the battery is dead?
Yes, the hood release is mechanical, not electronic. You can pull the lever and release the safety latch even with a dead battery. The only exception is on some newer models with electronic releases, which require power.
How do I close the hood properly?
Lower the hood until it is about 12 inches above the latch. Let it drop gently. Do not slam it. Push down on the center to ensure both latches engage. Check that the hood is flush with the fenders.
Final Thoughts On Opening The Hood
Knowing how to open jeep cherokee hood is a basic skill every owner should master. The process takes less than a minute once you are familiar with the latches. Keep the mechanism clean and lubricated to avoid problems.
If you ever get stuck, remember that the interior lever releases the primary latch, and the safety latch is under the hood. With a little patience and the right technique, you can access your engine bay for maintenance or repairs.
Practice opening the hood a few times so you remember the steps. It is one of those things that seems tricky until you do it once. Now you are ready to check your oil, coolant, or battery without any hassle.