Unable to pop open the hood

dennisvab · #1 12-02-2021, 06:06 PM

I was replacing the belt tensioner and pulleys on my 2011 E70 and I removed the aluminum cross bar that sits right above the radiator. When I was installing it back in I must have disconnected the cable from the passenger side hood latch. That’s my guess I obviously can’t confirm yet. I tried to pull the cable as much as possible from inside thinking maybe that would let the hood pop open, no success. Right now the driver’s side unlatched, passengers does not. I removed the front grill pieces but it doesn’t give you much access. I’ll figure this out, but wanted to know if anyone can save me any guessing with some tips.

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andrewwynn · #2 12-02-2021, 06:11 PM

When doing similar on e53 I had to cut though plastic duct around the fan to gain access to the cable.

If you can't get to the inner cable and the cross cable is disconnected from the left side it's destructive method but but you can vice grip the whole cable and twist/pull usually will work.

If it's disconnected from the right latch you will likely have to use a stiff wire with a hook to catch the release lever. I'll try to get a photo that can help

dennisvab · #3 12-02-2021, 06:17 PM

I’ve used vice grips on a previous e39 to twist the cable and got the hood to unlatch. Here I don’t see an easy way to get to the inner connecting cable.

andrewwynn · #4 12-02-2021, 06:55 PM

I'll be using the e70 in an hour I'll try to remember to open the hood and take a picture for suggestions how to get in there.

I'm guessing that twist the hood enough to help get a hook onto the right latch. Which model is yours? Ours is 50i and no chance in hell to work a hook up from below

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dennisvab · #5 12-02-2021, 07:53 PM

Thanks I appreciate that! I have the n55. I don’t think there is a lot of room to work from below. But I very well may have to drop the undercarriage cover and attempt to

andrewwynn · #6 12-02-2021, 08:53 PM

This is where the cable splits from the cabin.

Left-right paths

Right cable behind radiator

Yellow the latch red a possible access hole to the latch

Latch from a distance

Close up release not pulled

Close up release pulled.

Your goal is going to be too be to use a stiff rod (that's what she said) and poke in the hole (too easy).

Poke right next to the ball on the end of the cable (or on the lever that may be missing the ball).

It will be a simple job if you have an inspection camera to see what your are doing.

If it gets too frustrating drill another hole in the plastic about an inch up from the existing one so you have a direct shot.

dennisvab · #7 12-03-2021, 12:30 AM

Thanks so much for these pictures!! This definitely helps! I’ll let you know what happens once I find time to do this. I’m in upstate NY where the roads are getting ugly. I need to do this before I run out of windshield washer fluid.