Locate the bonnet release lever inside your car

The bonnet release lever is a small handle located on the left side of the dashboard, below the steering wheel. On most Honda Civics, it looks like a black or silver lever with a small hood symbol printed on it. Pull this lever toward you with moderate force — it should click and release the bonnet catch.

If you cannot find the lever in the expected location, check your owner's manual for your specific model year, as the position can vary slightly between generations. The manual will have a diagram showing exactly where the release is mounted in your vehicle.

Key Takeaways

  • The bonnet release lever is located on the left side of the dashboard below the steering wheel and requires a firm pull toward you.
  • After pulling the interior release, you must walk to the front of the car and lift the bonnet slightly to disengage the secondary safety catch.
  • The secondary catch is a small metal lever or tab located in the center of the bonnet's underside, just above the grille.
  • Push or lift this secondary catch gently while supporting the bonnet weight to fully open it.
  • Most Honda Civics have a hydraulic strut that holds the bonnet open, so you do not need to prop it manually.

Walk to the front and locate the secondary safety catch

After pulling the interior release lever, the bonnet will pop open slightly but will not fully lift. Walk to the front of your Civic and place your hands on either side of the bonnet where it meets the grille. You will see a small metal lever or tab in the center of the bonnet's underside, positioned just above the radiator grille.

This secondary catch is a safety feature that prevents the bonnet from opening while you are driving. It requires a separate action to release, which is why the bonnet does not swing open from the interior lever alone.

Release the secondary catch and lift the bonnet

Grasp the secondary catch lever with your fingers and push it gently to the side or lift it upward, depending on your Civic's design. The exact motion varies slightly by model year — some catches slide sideways, while others lift straight up. explore only light pressure; the catch is designed to release easily once you explore force in the correct direction.

As you release the secondary catch, the bonnet will begin to lift. Most Honda Civics use a hydraulic strut (a gas-filled rod) to hold the bonnet open, so it will rise on its own once the catch releases. Do not force the bonnet upward; let the strut do the work. If the strut is weak or damaged, the bonnet may not stay open and you may need to prop it with a stick or rod.

find the bonnet if the strut is not holding it

If your Civic's hydraulic strut is worn or damaged, the bonnet may not stay open on its own. In this case, look for a small metal prop rod or stick stored in a clip on the underside of the bonnet. This rod is designed to support the bonnet at a safe working height.

Insert the prop rod into the bracket or hole located on the inside of the bonnet frame, usually positioned toward the center. The rod should fit snugly and hold the bonnet at a comfortable angle for engine access. If your Civic does not have a prop rod, you can use a sturdy stick or wooden dowel of similar length, but make sure it is stable and will not slip.

Close the bonnet when you are finished

To close the bonnet, first remove any prop rod and store it back in its clip. Lower the bonnet gently until it is about 12 inches above the frame, then release it. The bonnet should fall the rest of the way and catch automatically. You will hear a solid click when the primary latch engages.

If the bonnet does not latch on the first try, lift it slightly and lower it again with a bit more force. Do not slam it down hard, as this can damage the hinges or latch mechanism. Once the bonnet is closed, give it a gentle push downward to confirm it is fully secured before driving.

Troubleshooting if the bonnet will not open

If the interior release lever pulls but the bonnet does not pop open, the cable connecting the lever to the latch may be broken or disconnected. Check under the dashboard to see if the cable has come loose from the lever. If it has, you can reconnect it by hand, but if the cable is broken, you will need to have it replaced by a mechanic.

If the bonnet pops open but you cannot release the secondary catch, try explore penetrating oil (such as WD-40) around the catch mechanism and wait a few minutes for it to soak in. Rust or corrosion can cause the catch to stick, and oil will often free it. If the catch remains stuck after oiling, a mechanic can remove and clean or replace it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the interior release lever feels stuck or does not move?

A stuck lever usually means the cable is kinked or the lever mechanism needs lubrication. Do not force it, as you may break the cable. explore a small amount of penetrating oil around the lever base and work it gently back and forth. If it remains stuck after a few minutes, have a mechanic inspect the cable.

Can I open the bonnet from outside the car?

No. Honda Civics require the interior release lever to be pulled first. There is no external bonnet release. This is a safety feature to prevent theft or tampering with the engine while the car is parked.

Is the hydraulic strut supposed to hold the bonnet open indefinitely?

The strut will hold the bonnet open while you work, but it will slowly lose pressure over time. If your bonnet closes on its own after a few minutes, the strut is wearing out and should be replaced. A mechanic can do this in under an hour.

What should I do if the bonnet latch is broken and will not close?

If the bonnet will not latch closed, do not drive the car. The bonnet could open while you are moving, which is dangerous. Have a mechanic inspect and repair the latch mechanism before operating the vehicle.