How to Open the Hood of a Ford Escape

14 mins read

Last Updated on July 27, 2023

Opening the hood of a Ford Escape may seem like a daunting task, but with a few simple steps, you’ll be able to access the engine compartment with ease. First, locate the hood release lever inside the vehicle, usually found on the driver’s side. Pull the lever to release the hood latch. Next, go to the front of the vehicle and locate the secondary hood release lever, which is typically located in the center of the grille. Pull this lever upwards to fully open the hood. Remember to prop the hood open with the provided support rod to ensure safety. Now you’re ready to perform any necessary maintenance or inspections under the hood of your Ford Escape.

The Ford Escape is a popular SUV known for its reliability and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a new driver, it’s important to know how to open the hood of your Ford Escape. Understanding the process allows you to perform necessary maintenance and inspections, ensuring the safety and longevity of your vehicle.

Step 1: Locate the hood release lever inside the vehicle.

  • Begin by sitting in the driver’s seat of the Ford Escape.
  • Look for a lever located on the lower left side of the dashboard.
  • This lever is typically labeled with a picture of a car with the hood open.
  • Once you have located the lever, pull it towards you firmly.

Step 2: Pull the hood release lever to partially open the hood.

  • After pulling the lever, you will hear a click sound.
  • This indicates that the hood release mechanism has been activated.
  • Exit the vehicle and move to the front of the Ford Escape.
  • Locate the hood latch, which is located in the center of the front grille.

Step 2: Pull the hood release lever to partially open the hood.

Once you have located the hood release lever inside the vehicle, it is time to take the next step in opening the hood of your Ford Escape. This lever is typically located on the driver’s side of the vehicle, near the footwell. It may be labeled with a hood symbol or the word “hood” to make it easier to identify.

To open the hood, simply pull the hood release lever towards you. This action will disengage the primary hood latch and partially open the hood. You may need to exert some force to fully release the latch, as it can be quite secure. Once the hood is partially open, you can move on to the next step in the process.

Step 4: Pull the secondary hood release latch to fully open the hood.

After you have successfully pulled the hood release lever and partially opened the hood, it is time to move to the front of the vehicle and locate the secondary hood release latch. This latch is typically located near the center of the hood, just above the grille.

To fully open the hood, reach under the partially opened hood and locate the secondary hood release latch. It is usually a small lever or handle that you can pull towards you. This action will release the secondary latch and allow the hood to fully open. Be careful when pulling the latch, as it may require some force to fully release.

Step 3: Move to the front of the vehicle and locate the secondary hood release latch.

Once you have pulled the hood release lever inside the vehicle, it’s time to move to the front of the Ford Escape and find the secondary hood release latch. This latch is usually located near the center of the front grille, just above the Ford logo.

Locating the secondary hood release latch may require you to bend down and look closely, as it can be quite small and inconspicuous. It is important to note that the location of the latch may vary slightly depending on the model year of your Ford Escape, so be sure to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.

Once you have located the secondary hood release latch, you will need to use your fingers or a small tool to pull it towards you. This action will release the hood and allow it to be fully opened.

Step 4: Pull the secondary hood release latch to fully open the hood.

  • Once you have partially opened the hood using the hood release lever inside the vehicle, it is time to fully open it by pulling the secondary hood release latch.
  • The secondary hood release latch is usually located at the front of the vehicle, near the center.
  • Look for a small lever or handle that you can pull to release the hood completely.
  • Once you have located the secondary hood release latch, firmly grasp it and pull it towards you.
  • As you pull the latch, you will feel some resistance, but continue pulling until the hood pops open.
  • Make sure to hold onto the hood as you release the latch, as it may open with some force.
  • Once the hood is fully open, you can let go of the secondary hood release latch.

Step 5: Secure the hood with the prop rod to keep it open.

Once you have fully opened the hood of your Ford Escape, it is important to secure it in place to prevent it from accidentally closing while you are working on the engine. Follow these steps to properly secure the hood:

  • Locate the prop rod, which is a long metal rod with a curved end.
  • Insert the curved end of the prop rod into the hole on the underside of the hood.
  • Position the prop rod so that it rests securely against the hood and the engine compartment.
  • Ensure that the prop rod is securely in place and will not easily dislodge.

By securing the hood with the prop rod, you can work on the engine without worrying about the hood accidentally closing and causing injury or damage. It is important to always use the prop rod when working under the hood of your Ford Escape.

Step 6: Inspect the engine compartment for any signs of damage or leaks.

Once you have successfully opened the hood of your Ford Escape, it is important to inspect the engine compartment for any signs of damage or leaks. This step is crucial for ensuring the safety and proper functioning of your vehicle.

Start by visually examining the engine components, such as the belts, hoses, and wires. Look for any signs of wear, cracks, or fraying. If you notice any damage, it is recommended to have it repaired or replaced by a professional mechanic.

Next, check for any fluid leaks. Look for puddles or stains on the ground beneath your vehicle, as well as any wet spots or drips on the engine itself. If you spot any leaks, it is important to address them promptly to prevent further damage to your engine.

Additionally, take note of any unusual smells or sounds coming from the engine compartment. These could be indicators of underlying issues that require attention.

By regularly inspecting your engine compartment, you can catch potential problems early on and prevent costly repairs down the line. Remember, safety should always be a top priority when maintaining your Ford Escape.

Step 7: Perform any necessary maintenance or repairs under the hood.

Once you have successfully opened the hood of your Ford Escape, you may need to perform maintenance or repairs on the engine. It is important to note that working under the hood can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Always ensure that the engine is turned off and has had time to cool down before attempting any work.

If you are unsure about how to perform a specific maintenance task or repair, it is recommended to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or seek professional assistance. Some common maintenance tasks that may need to be performed under the hood include checking and topping up fluids such as oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid, replacing air filters, and inspecting belts and hoses for wear and tear.

Remember to always use the appropriate tools and follow safety guidelines when working under the hood. If you are not confident in your abilities or do not have the necessary tools, it is best to leave the maintenance and repairs to a qualified mechanic.

Step 8: Safely close the hood and ensure it is securely latched

After you have finished performing any necessary maintenance or repairs under the hood of your Ford Escape, it is important to safely close the hood and ensure that it is securely latched. This will prevent any accidents or damage that could occur if the hood were to unexpectedly open while driving.

To close the hood, first remove the prop rod from its holder and carefully lower the hood until it is about six inches above the closed position. Then, with a firm push, let the hood close completely. Make sure to avoid slamming the hood shut, as this can cause damage to the vehicle.

Once the hood is closed, check that it is securely latched by giving it a gentle tug. If it does not open, then it is properly latched. However, if it does open, you will need to repeat the closing process until it is securely latched.

Remember, properly closing the hood of your Ford Escape is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road. By following these steps, you can ensure that your hood is securely closed and ready for your next journey.

Conclusion: Ensuring Proper Maintenance and Safety
Knowing how to open and close the hood of a Ford Escape is not only important for maintenance purposes but also for safety reasons. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can confidently access the engine compartment and perform necessary inspections or repairs. Regularly inspecting the engine compartment for any signs of damage or leaks is crucial in maintaining the overall health of your vehicle. Additionally, being able to safely close the hood and ensure it is securely latched is essential to prevent any accidents or damage while driving. By familiarizing yourself with the process of opening and closing the hood, you can take control of your vehicle’s maintenance and ensure its longevity. Remember, a well-maintained vehicle not only performs better but also keeps you and your passengers safe on the road. So, take the time to learn how to open and close the hood of your Ford Escape and prioritize the maintenance and safety of your vehicle.Learn how to open the hood of a Ford Escape for maintenance and safety purposes. Simple steps explained.

About The Author

Alison Sowle is the typical tv guru. With a social media evangelist background, she knows how to get her message out there. However, she's also an introvert at heart and loves nothing more than writing for hours on end. She's a passionate creator who takes great joy in learning about new cultures - especially when it comes to beer!