Toyota Prius: How to How to Open the Hood

Every once in a while, it is necessary to look under the hood and ensure everything is okay. You may check your coolant level, the oil level, or the windshield washing liquid. Whatever it is, you will need to open the hood on your Toyota Prius. To do that:

First, ensure your Toyota Prius is properly parked, and the car is turned off.

2016 – 2023 Models

1. Pull the hood release lever towards you to release the hood. You should hear the hood release. (The lever is located on the driver’s side, below the steering wheel, at about knee height, just below the fuel tank release button.)
2. Standing in front of the vehicle, on the right side of the Toyota logo underneath the hood, find the secondary release latch, pull up on it, and then lift the hood.
3. Find the prop rod and securely place the hood on the prop rod.

2010 – 2015 Models

1. Pull the hood release lever towards you to release the hood. You should hear the hood release. (The lever is located on the driver’s side, below the steering wheel, at about knee height, just below the power mirrors buttons by the door frame.)
2. Standing in front of the vehicle, on the right side of the Toyota logo underneath the hood, find the secondary release latch, pull up on it, and then lift the hood.
3. Find the prop rod and securely place the hood on the prop rod.

Closing the Hood

When you are done working under the hood;

1. Carefully remove the prop rod holding up the hood. (Ensure you are ready to hold the hood’s weight, so it doesn’t fall on you.)
2. Secure the prop rod properly on the hood for future use. (It has a mechanism to hold it in place, so make sure it clicks into place.)
3. Lower the hood.
4. Ensure you hear the clicking sound, and try lifting the hood to ensure it’s securely locked.