Park your car in a safe location and turn off the engine. Engage the parking brake and raise the hood slightly.
Locate the hood release lever underneath the dashboard, typically on the driver's side. Pull the lever to release the hood. If the lever doesn't work, you may need to use a flat-head screwdriver to pry open the hood from the front of the car.
Once the hood opens, inspect the hood release cable and latch. Look for any signs of damage or corrosion, such as fraying or rust. If the cable is visibly damaged, it will need to be replaced.
If the cable and latch appear intact, you can try lubricating them with a penetrating oil or silicone lubricant. Spray the lubricant into the latch mechanism and move the lever several times to ensure proper lubrication.
Test the hood release by pulling the lever and making sure the hood opens and closes properly. If the issue persists, you may need to have the hood release mechanism replaced by a professional mechanic.
