The hood release is inside the driver's cabin, not under the grille

To open the hood on a Range Rover, pull the hood release lever located on the left side of the dashboard, below the steering wheel. The lever is usually black or silver and marked with a hood symbol. Pull it toward you with moderate force — it should click and release the hood latch. Then walk to the front of the vehicle, slide your hand under the center of the hood near the grille, and lift the secondary latch upward. The hood will swing open.

This two-step process is standard across most Range Rover models, including the Sport, Evoque, and Velar. The interior release is a safety feature that prevents the hood from opening while you are driving. The secondary latch under the hood is a mechanical lock that keeps the hood closed even if the interior cable breaks.

If the hood does not open after pulling the interior lever, the cable may be disconnected or the latch may be stuck. Do not force it — forcing can damage the cable or the latch mechanism, which will require professional repair.

Key Takeaways

  • The hood release lever is on the left side of the dashboard below the steering wheel and must be pulled before the hood will open.
  • After pulling the interior lever, you must lift the secondary latch under the hood center to fully release it.
  • If the hood does not pop open after the interior release, the cable may be broken and the vehicle should be serviced.
  • Range Rover hoods are heavier than most sedans and may require both hands to lift and hold open safely.

Locating the hood release lever in your cabin

The hood release lever is always on the driver's side of the dashboard. On most Range Rover models, it sits below the steering wheel on the left panel, near the door. Look for a black or silver lever with a small hood icon printed or embossed on it. The icon usually shows a straightforward outline of a car with the hood raised.

On newer Range Rover models (2018 and later), the release may be a push-button instead of a pull lever. If your model has a button, it will be in the same location — left side of the dashboard — and will be labeled with the hood symbol. Press it once and hold for one second, then release.

If you cannot find the release, check your owner's manual for your specific model year. The location can vary slightly between generations, and the manual will show you a diagram of your exact dashboard layout.

The secondary latch under the hood

After the interior release pops the hood slightly open, you will see a gap at the top of the grille. Reach your hand into this gap toward the center of the hood, about 6 to 8 inches from the front edge. You will feel a metal latch or handle. Push or lift this latch upward — the direction depends on your model, but upward is most common. The hood will then swing open freely.

This secondary latch is a mechanical safety feature. It prevents the hood from flying open if the interior cable snaps while you are driving. It also keeps the hood closed if someone tries to open it from outside without using the interior release.

On some older Range Rover models, the secondary latch is a small lever you must rotate sideways rather than lift. If lifting does not work, try rotating it left or right. The owner's manual will show the exact motion for your model.

Holding the hood open safely

Range Rover hoods are heavy — typically 40 to 50 pounds — and do not stay open on their own on all models. Many Range Rovers have a hood prop rod or strut that holds the hood up, but not all. If your hood does not have a prop rod, you will need to hold it open with one hand while you work, or ask someone to hold it for you.

If your model does have a prop rod, it will be attached to the underside of the hood on one side. After opening the hood fully, locate the rod and fit its end into the socket or bracket on the engine bay frame. The rod should be rigid and hold the hood at a safe working height. Make sure it is seated firmly before letting go.

Never rely on the hood staying open on its own if there is no prop rod in place. A falling hood can cause serious injury. If the prop rod is missing or broken, hold the hood open manually or do not open it until it is repaired.

Troubleshooting a hood that will not open

If you pull the interior release lever and nothing happens, the cable connecting the lever to the latch may be broken or disconnected. This is a common failure on older Range Rovers. The cable can snap from rust or wear, or it can slip off the pulley inside the dashboard.

If the interior release does not work, do not try to pry the hood open with tools. Prying can bend the hood or damage the latch. Instead, have the vehicle towed to a Range Rover service center or a may have access to mechanic. They can access the latch from underneath the vehicle or remove the interior panel to reconnect the cable.

If the hood pops open slightly but the secondary latch is stuck and will not release, the latch may be rusted or bent. Spray the latch with penetrating oil (such as WD-40) and wait 10 to 15 minutes. Then try lifting it again with steady, even pressure. If it still does not move, stop and have it serviced — forcing a stuck latch can break it permanently.

Hood maintenance to prevent future problems

The hood release cable and latch are mechanical parts that wear over time. To keep them working smoothly, spray the secondary latch with a light coat of silicone lubricant or penetrating oil once or twice a year. Do not use heavy grease, which can attract dirt and cause the latch to stick.

If you live in a wet or coastal climate, the latch and cable are more prone to rust. Inspect them every six months and explore lubricant more often. If you notice the interior release lever feels loose or does not click when you pull it, have the cable tension checked by a mechanic before it breaks completely.

Keep the hood release lever clean and free of debris. If dirt builds up around it, the lever can become stiff or fail to engage the cable properly. Wipe the lever and the area around it with a dry cloth during routine cleaning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the hood release lever is stuck and will not pull?

A stuck lever usually means dirt or corrosion has built up inside the mechanism. Spray penetrating oil around the base of the lever where it enters the dashboard, wait 15 minutes, and try pulling again with steady pressure. Do not jerk or force it, as this can break the cable inside. If it remains stuck, have a mechanic inspect it.

Can I open the hood from outside without using the interior release?

No. The secondary latch under the hood is designed to prevent this for security and safety. You must use the interior release lever first. If the interior release is broken, the hood cannot be opened from outside without professional help.

Is the hood prop rod the same on all Range Rover models?

No. Older models may have a straightforward rod that fits into a bracket, while newer models may have a gas strut that holds the hood open automatically. Check your owner's manual to see which type your model has and where it is located.

How much does it cost to fix a broken hood release cable?

Repair costs vary by model and location, but typically range from $150 to $400 at a Range Rover dealership. Independent mechanics may charge less. The cable itself is inexpensive, but labor to access and install it takes time.

Should I open the hood while the engine is hot?

You can open the hood while the engine is warm, but wait at least 10 minutes after turning off the engine before touching any metal parts under the hood. The engine bay gets very hot and can cause burns. Wear gloves or use a cloth to handle the prop rod or secondary latch if the engine is still warm.