The basic steps to open your bonnet from inside the car
Most cars have a two-step release system: a lever or handle inside the cabin that unlatches the bonnet, then a secondary catch under the bonnet itself that you release by hand. To open your bonnet, sit in the driver's seat, locate the bonnet release lever (usually on the left side of the steering column, below the dashboard, or sometimes on the floor), pull it toward you, then get out and walk to the front of the car. Lift the bonnet slightly, find the safety catch in the center or to one side of the opening, push or pull it (depending on your model), and raise the bonnet fully. Prop it open with the support rod if your car has one, or use the hydraulic struts if they are fitted.
The exact location and style of the release lever varies by manufacturer and model year. Some cars use a pull handle, others a push button, and a few older models use a cable you must pull firmly. Your owner's manual will show you the exact location for your specific vehicle. If you cannot find the release inside the cabin, check the manual's index under "bonnet," "hood," or "engine access."
Key Takeaways
- The bonnet release is usually a lever or button inside the cabin on the left side of the steering column or dashboard, and pulling it unlatches the bonnet from the outside.
- After pulling the interior release, you must walk to the front of the car and push or pull the secondary safety catch under the bonnet to fully open it.
- Your owner's manual shows the exact location of the release for your model, which can vary significantly between manufacturers.
- Support rods or hydraulic struts hold the bonnet open so you do not have to hold it yourself while working underneath.
Where to find the bonnet release lever in your cabin
The release lever is most commonly mounted on the dashboard to the left of the steering wheel, below the dashboard trim. Look for a handle or button labeled with a bonnet or engine symbol — usually a straightforward line drawing of a car with an open hood. Pull the handle toward you with moderate force; you should hear or feel a click as the bonnet unlatches.
Some vehicles mount the release on the floor to the left of the pedals, or on the side of the seat. A few luxury or older models may have the release on the center console. If you cannot locate it after checking these common spots, open your owner's manual and search the index or the "maintenance" or "engine" section. The manual will include a diagram showing the exact location for your car.
How to release the secondary catch and lift the bonnet
Once you have pulled the interior release, walk to the front of the car and look under the bonnet opening. You will see a metal catch or latch, usually in the center or slightly to one side. This secondary catch prevents the bonnet from flying open accidentally while driving. Push it to the side, pull it toward you, or lift it upward — the direction depends on your car's design. The catch will move freely once released.
After releasing the catch, grip the bonnet edge and lift it upward. If your car has a support rod (a metal prop), it will either be attached to the bonnet or to the frame; guide it into the slot or holder on the opposite side to hold the bonnet open. If your car has hydraulic struts instead, they will hold the bonnet up automatically and you do not need to do anything else. Never force the bonnet if it does not open smoothly — stop and check that you have fully released both the interior lever and the secondary catch.
What to do if the bonnet will not open
If the interior release lever moves but the bonnet does not pop open, the cable connecting the lever to the latch may be broken or disconnected. Try pulling the lever again with more force, or have someone pull it while you watch under the bonnet to see if the latch moves. If the latch does not move at all, the cable has likely failed and you will need a mechanic to repair it.
If the bonnet opens slightly but the secondary catch will not release, the catch may be stuck or corroded. Do not force it — you risk bending the bonnet or damaging the catch. Spray the catch with penetrating oil (such as WD-40), wait a few minutes, and try again gently. If it still will not budge, leave the bonnet closed and take the car to a mechanic rather than risk damage.
Using the support rod or hydraulic struts correctly
A support rod is a metal prop that comes loose from the bonnet or frame. Once the bonnet is open, locate the rod (usually stored in a clip on the bonnet or frame), remove it, and insert one end into the slot or holder on the opposite side of the opening. The rod holds the bonnet at a safe working height. When you are finished, remove the rod, store it back in its clip, and lower the bonnet gently until it latches.
Hydraulic struts are gas-filled cylinders attached to the bonnet and frame that automatically hold the bonnet open. You do not need to do anything with them — straightforward open the bonnet and they will keep it up. To close the bonnet, gently lower it until it is about six inches from closed, then release it and let it fall the rest of the way. Do not slam it or let it drop from full height, as this can damage the struts over time.
Closing the bonnet safely
To close the bonnet, first remove the support rod if you used one and store it back in its clip. Lower the bonnet gently until it is about six inches above the frame, then release it and let it fall closed. You should hear a solid click as the latch engages. If the bonnet does not latch on the first try, lift it slightly and lower it again — sometimes it needs a second attempt to seat properly.
Do not slam the bonnet shut or let it drop from full height. Doing so can damage the hinges, dent the bonnet, or harm the hydraulic struts if your car has them. If the bonnet does not latch after two or three gentle attempts, check that nothing is blocking the latch or the frame, and try again. If it still will not close, have a mechanic inspect the latch mechanism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I cannot find the bonnet release inside the car?
Check your owner's manual first — the location varies by manufacturer and model year. Common spots are the left side of the dashboard below the steering wheel, the floor to the left of the pedals, or the center console. If you still cannot find it, call your car's manufacturer with your vehicle identification number (VIN), or visit a dealership for help locating it.
Can I open the bonnet if the car is running?
Yes, you can open the bonnet while the engine is running, but it is safer to turn off the engine first. If you must work on the engine while it is running, keep loose clothing, hair, and hands away from moving parts like the fan and belts. Never open the bonnet when ready after driving — the engine and coolant are extremely hot and can cause severe burns.
What does the secondary catch do?
The secondary catch is a safety feature that prevents the bonnet from flying open if the interior release cable breaks or comes loose while you are driving. It must be released by hand from outside the car, so the bonnet cannot open accidentally on the road.
Is the support rod the same for all cars?
No, support rods vary in length, thickness, and how they attach. Use only the rod that came with your car — using the wrong rod can allow the bonnet to fall or close unexpectedly. If your rod is lost or damaged, buy a replacement from your car's manufacturer or a parts supplier that carries your model.