The cable is seizing.The one from the lever to to the first latch(there are two).My 02 is like that now.I just use a small screw driver to pry the latching mechanisms back.Give the hood a good reef to make sure it's latched after you close it.Cable looks like a bitch to change so it'll have to wait until spring.

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If I'd of known it would last this long I'd of taken better care of it

Chris