If I ever really get stuck I could just do this:

On each side of the latch there is an 8mm screw that can be removed through the front, between the hood and grill They are aprox 6" apart.

The latch itself has two locator pins that slide into the front suppoprt behind the grill.

After removing the two screws, gently pry the whole latch away from the support. The hood can be raised, taking the latch with it.

Access to the release lever is behind the latch. It is now exposed.
pull the tiny release lever toward the drivers side and latch will come loose.

__________________


2005 X5 4.4i M Sport
2003 X5 4.4i