Hood Latch Doesn't "Pop"
 

When I release the hood it doesn't pop up, just seems to release softly and not completely, I have to pull out the handle in the grill to completely release it. Seems like it's either the hood struts or the latch springs. The hood is heavy to lift but then when it gets about 45 degrees, the struts assist and it goes up the rest of the way, that's what makes me think it's the struts, but wanted to put it out to all of you before I bought some struts only to find I need to replace the springs.

Oil the handle in the grill pivot point.

That sounds pretty normal. You must use the handle in the grill to release the safety latch otherwise it wouldn't be safe!

I had a lazy hood once.
I cleaned and lubed everything I could find.
Made sure there was no drag.
She pops up like a steamy Saturday night with a martini and Viagra now.

BTW, love wagons, have an E350, the e53 is the elder statesman in our garage.

Thanks for the replies but I've lubed it all, when you pop a hood you always get a sound and the hood raises a few inches, mine nothing, but I know it's cleared the latch because it raises by just pulling on the lever and then lifting the hood. I really think it's the 14 year old struts, but wasn't sure if anyone had encountered "weak" springs on the latch as well.