2003 Volkswagen Passat Logo
Bridget Posted on May 23, 2009
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Hood Release is broken

The hood release on my VW Passat is broken. How do I open the hood to replace the part?

  • Bridget May 23, 2009

    Thanks for the info. The part that we pull to open the hood (plastic piece) just comes right out and there's indication that this plastic piece is broken. Do you think it's most likely still the cable?

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1 Answer

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  • Expert 323 Answers
  • Posted on May 23, 2009
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It is more likely the cable that runs from the handle inside is broken, either on the handle end or where it connects to the release under the hood.

If it is inside, you're in luck; grab the end of the cable with a pair of vice grips and pull to open.

If it broken under the hood, you may be able to look up to the top of the hood through the grille or from under the front of the car and see where the locking bar fastens to the holder. If you can, you may be able to take a long screwdriver or flat iron and push on it to release it. But make sure you have a replacement part for it first so you don't have to go through the whole thing again. And realize that it will be hard to push on it enough to open it.

Sirwriter

  • Anonymous May 23, 2009

    Absolutely. This is the easiest way to go, although you may have to search a bit to find the end of the cable. Keep looking, and remember to have a replacement part ready, or at least have a small pair of vice grips you can leave attached until you get one.

    Sirwriter


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1 Related Answer

Anonymous

  • 38 Answers
  • Posted on May 12, 2009

SOURCE: can't open hood

if you can still get to the little steel cable, a extremely tight pair of vise grips and a moderate amount of force will do the trick.

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