Kia Forte: How to Open the Hood

Kia Forte’s hood allows you to access the vehicle’s engine system. It allows you to check the engine’s condition, change the oil, refill the wiper fluid, etc. However, you must first learn and know how to open the hood. While it seems straightforward, it can be challenging for some people, especially if you have just acquired your new car.

Whether you are a first-time owner or need a refresher, this guide helps you open your Kia Forte hood, regardless of your model.

2019 – 2023 Models

1. Pull the hood release lever located near the driver’s door. Look for a lever with an image of an open car’s hood.
2. Go to the front of your car and slide your hand under the slightly popped-up hood.
3. Locate the secondary safety latch.
4. Move the secondary safety latch to the left.
5. The hood will release and raise to open.
6. Locate the hood prop and slide it into the designated spot to support the open hood.

2015 – 2018 Models

1. Pull the hood release lever located near the driver’s door. Look for a lever with an image of an open car’s hood.
2. Go to the front of your car and slide your hand under the slightly popped-up hood.
3. Locate the secondary safety latch.
4. Press the secondary safety latch.
5. The hood will release and raise to open.
6. Locate the hood prop and slide it into the designated spot to support the open hood.

2008 – 2014 Models

1. Pull the hood release lever located near the driver’s door. Look for a lever with an image of an open car’s hood.
2. Go to the front of your car and slide your hand under the slightly popped-up hood.
3. Locate the secondary safety latch.
4. Move the secondary safety latch to the left.
5. The hood will release and raise to open.
6. Locate the hood prop and slide it into the designated spot to support the open hood.

Additional Support

Before Closing the Hood

For all the models, you should consider the following before closing the hood:

• Place the hood prop in its clips to avoid rattling.
• Lower the hood until about 10 inches from the latch, then release it slowly.

What to Do if the Hood Won’t Open

Problems opening Kia Forte’s hoods are common. This can be due to corrosion, debris, and dirt deposits on the hood latch. Excessive force on the hood release lever can also damage the latch cable, causing failure.

Here are a few tips to help you open your Forte’s hood if it can’t open using the regular method:

1. Ask someone to help push the hood down as you pull the hood release lever in the driver’s compartment. While still holding on to the hood release lever, ask them to try to pop the hood open.
2. Check that the hood release cable under the dashboard is in good condition. If the hood release cable is badly damaged, you might have to open the hood via the wheel or grill (not recommended). At this point, hiring an authorized dealer to help you solve the problem is your best move.