How Do I Open The Hood On My Subaru?

A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Open the Hood on Your Subaru (On Most Models)

Opening the hood of your Subaru is a basic yet crucial skill every car owner should master. Whether you drive a 2010 Legacy or a 2023 Outback, knowing how to access your engine bay can be handy for routine maintenance checks or in case of an emergency. In this guide, we will answer the question, “how do I open the hood on my Subaru”?

Preparing to Open the Hood

Before you begin, make sure your Subaru is parked on a level surface and the engine is turned off. It’s also a good idea to engage the parking brake for added safety. Once you’ve taken these precautions, follow these steps:

Step 1: Locate the Hood Release Lever

The hood release lever is usually located inside the cabin, near the driver’s seat. In most Subaru models, you can find it under the dashboard, near the left side of the footwell. It’s a small lever that you need to pull or push, depending on the model year. In most cases it will be a pull lever like the video above.

Step 2: Identify the Hood Release Lever

Once you’ve located the hood release lever, take a moment to identify it. It’s often labeled with an image of a car with an open hood or the word “Hood.” In some models, you may need to remove a panel or cover to access the lever, but this is rare and uncommon.

Step 3: Pull or Push the Hood Release Lever

With your Subaru’s key in the ignition or the accessory position (to release the hood latch), either pull or push the hood release lever. The exact motion required may vary by model and year, so consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure. When done correctly, you’ll hear a click, indicating that the hood latch has been released. Again, in most cases it will be a pull lever.

Opening the Hood

Now that you’ve released the hood latch from inside the car, you can proceed to open the hood itself.

Step 4: Locate the Hood Release Mechanism

Exit the car and go to the front of your Subaru. At the front of the vehicle, you’ll see the hood release mechanism, which is usually located just above the grille or under the front lip of the hood.

Step 5: Release the Secondary Hood Latch

Underneath the hood release mechanism, you’ll find a secondary latch. Push or pull it to the left or right to release the hood completely. This latch is a safety feature designed to prevent the hood from accidentally flying open while driving. Yikes, that would be scary!

Step 6: Lift the Hood

With the secondary latch released, you can now safely lift the hood of your Subaru. Use the provided hood support rod to hold the hood in the open position. This rod is usually found near the front of the engine bay or connected to the hood itself, and you can secure it in place by inserting it into the designated hole on the underside of the hood.

Closing the Hood

When you’re finished working under the hood, follow these steps to close it securely.

Step 7: Remove the Hood Support Rod

Lift the hood slightly and remove the hood support rod from its designated hole and replace it in it’s designated position. Gently lower the hood until it’s about 8 inches above the closed position.

Step 8: Release the Hood

Allow the hood to drop gently, ensuring it latches securely. It is ok to let it gain a little momentum on the way down. The harder it falls the more sure you can be it will properly close. Don’t let it fall to much further than 8 inches. To confirm it’s properly closed, give it a light push or pull to ensure it doesn’t pop back up. Safety first!

Congratulations! You’ve successfully learned how to open and close the hood on your Subaru. On some older models it may be a little different, but these instructions should ensure you find the proper technique regardless of your Subaru model. Regularly accessing your engine bay for maintenance checks or in emergencies is an essential part of responsible car ownership. Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions and safety precautions, and if you ever encounter difficulties, consider seeking professional assistance. We are always happy to help at Willsonville Subaru. Give us a call if you are having trouble at (971) 351-9877 With these steps, you’ll have no trouble accessing your Subaru’s engine bay when you need to. Safe driving to you all!