How to Replace a Ford Hood Release Cable
by Daniel ValladaresThe hood release cable on your Ford vehicle is the wire connector that allows you to open the hood when you pull on the hood release lever. In order to replace the this important cable, you will need to remove the hood latch and uninstall several bolts. Although it may seem complicated, replacing the hood release cable on your Ford is a relatively simple process that should only take about one hour.
Step 1
Turn the engine off and open the hood. Remove the two bolts securing the hood latch at the front of the engine compartment. Remove the hood latch.
Step 2
Disconnect the hood release cable by disengaging it from the back of the latch assembly. Simply lift the cable off the latch to disengage it.
Step 3
Detach all of the retaining clips of the cable at the firewall located at the rear of the engine compartment.
Step 4
Open the driver's side door and remove the fuse panel cover. Remove the two release lever mounting bolts with a socket wrench. Detach the hood release lever with a slotted screwdriver.
Step 5
Pull the cable rearward into the interior of the vehicle and remove it. Install the new cable by running it through the fuse panel access hole that leads into the engine compartment. Reattach the bolts in the fuse panel and the clips along the firewall. Reattach the hood latch and attach the cable to the latch.
References
- "Ford Pick-Ups & Expedition 1997 thru 1999 Haynes Repair Manual"; Haynes; 1999
Things You'll Need
- Socket wrench
- Slotted screwdriver
Writer Bio
Daniel Valladares began his career as a medical writer in 2008. He has written patient education brochures for several pharmaceutical companies and has worked as an auto mechanic at Kim's Speedy Auto Service since 2007. Valladares holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Rice University and is currently studying to become a personal trainer.
