**Opening the bonnet of a Honda CRV is a straightforward procedure that can be completed in a few simple steps.** It is important to have access to the engine compartment for maintenance, repairs, or inspections. However, if you are unfamiliar with the process, it is crucial to follow the correct steps to avoid any damage or injury. This guide will provide you with clear instructions on how to open the bonnet of your Honda CRV safely and efficiently.
**Firstly, ensure that your Honda CRV is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged.** Locate the bonnet release lever inside the vehicle, which is typically situated on the driver’s side, near the left knee area. Pull the lever towards you to release the bonnet latch. Proceed to the front of the vehicle and locate the secondary bonnet latch in the center of the grille. Press down on the latch to release the bonnet.
**Finally, carefully lift the bonnet using the designated support rod located on the left or right side of the engine compartment.** The support rod holds the bonnet in an open position, allowing you to access the engine. When closing the bonnet, ensure that it is properly aligned and latched securely to prevent it from opening while driving. By following these steps, you can confidently open the bonnet of your Honda CRV whenever necessary.
Identifying the Bonnet Lever
The bonnet lever is usually located inside the vehicle, on the driver’s side. It is typically a small, plastic lever with a symbol or “Bonnet” written on it.
Here are some tips for locating the bonnet lever:
- Look for a small, plastic lever near the bottom of the dashboard, to the left of the steering wheel.
- If you can’t find the lever there, check the side of the dashboard, near the driver’s door.
- Some models have the bonnet lever hidden behind a panel. If this is the case, you may need to use a screwdriver or other tool to pry open the panel.
Once you have located the bonnet lever, pull it towards you. This will release the latch that holds the bonnet closed. You can then lift the bonnet to access the engine compartment.
| Honda CR-V Model | Bonnet Lever Location |
|---|---|
| 2007-2011 | Left of the steering wheel, bottom of the dashboard |
| 2012-2016 | Side of the dashboard, near the driver’s door |
| 2017-2023 | Hidden behind a panel on the side of the dashboard, near the driver’s door |
Locating the Bonnet Latch
1. Locate the lever located on the driver’s side footwell, near the dashboard. This lever is usually marked with the bonnet symbol or the word “bonnet.”
2. Pull the lever towards you to release the bonnet latch. The bonnet will pop up slightly, but it will still be held in place by a safety catch.
3. Locate the secondary bonnet latch, which is positioned in the center of the bonnet at the front of the engine bay.
4. Pull the secondary bonnet latch towards you to fully release the bonnet. The bonnet will now be able to be lifted up and opened.
Retrieval of Bonnet Latch
If the lever for releasing the bonnet latch is broken or jammed, you can retrieve the bonnet latch manually. Here are the steps to do so:
- Locate the grille at the front of the vehicle. The grille is the plastic or metal panel that covers the radiator and engine.
- Remove the grille by pressing on the tabs or clips that hold it in place. Once the grille is removed, you will see the bonnet latch.
- Use a screwdriver or other tool to pry the bonnet latch open. Be careful not to damage the latch or surrounding components.
- Once the bonnet latch is open, you will be able to lift up and open the bonnet.
For 2017-2022 Honda CR-V
| Bonnet Release Lever | Emergency Bonnet Release |
|---|---|
| Located on the driver’s side footwell | Pull the lever towards you |
| Marked with the bonnet symbol or "bonnet" | Bonnet will pop up |
| Pull the lever to release the bonnet latch | Locate the secondary bonnet latch in the center of the grille |
| Bonnet will pop up but held by a safety catch | Pull the secondary bonnet latch to fully release the bonnet |
| Secondary bonnet latch is located in the center of the bonnet |
Engaging the Secondary Catch
In certain Honda CR-V models, particularly those manufactured after 2017, you may encounter a secondary latch mechanism designed to prevent the bonnet from opening accidentally during high-speed driving or in the event of a collision.
To release the secondary catch and fully open the bonnet, follow these steps:
Step 1: Locate the secondary latch handle, which is usually situated near the center of the bonnet, close to the grille.
Step 2: Insert the blade of a flat-head screwdriver or a similar thin, flat tool into the slot adjacent to the handle.
Step 3: Carefully pry the handle outward to release the latch. You may feel some resistance, which is normal.
Step 4: Once the secondary catch is released, you can raise the bonnet fully using the primary latch mechanism located inside the vehicle.
| Type | Location | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Latch | Inside the vehicle, usually near the driver’s seat | To unlock the bonnet from inside the vehicle |
| Secondary Latch | On the bonnet, near the center grille | To prevent the bonnet from opening accidentally during high-speed driving or collisions |
Propping the Bonnet Up
Once the bonnet release lever has been pulled, the bonnet will unlatch but will not open fully due to a safety catch. To fully open the bonnet, you will need to prop it up using the bonnet prop rod.
Locate the bonnet prop rod. It is usually located in the engine compartment near the bonnet latch. The prop rod may be attached to the radiator support or the inner wing.
Remove the bonnet prop rod from its storage location. It may be attached by a clip or hook. Pull the rod straight up to release it.
Locate the bonnet prop rod bracket on the underside of the bonnet. It is usually located near the center of the bonnet, towards the front of the vehicle.
Insert the bonnet prop rod into the bracket. The prop rod should be inserted at an angle.
Lift the bonnet fully up and secure it in the open position. The prop rod should now be holding the bonnet open securely.
To Lower the Bonnet
To lower the bonnet, simply push it down until it latches shut. You may need to use your body weight to apply pressure to the bonnet.
Step 3: Removing the Bonnet Stay
Now that you have located the release handle and popped the bonnet open, you need to remove the bonnet stay to gain full access to the engine bay. Here’s how:
1. Locate the Bonnet Stay
The bonnet stay is a metal rod that connects the bonnet to the chassis and holds it in place. Look for it on the left-hand side of the engine bay, near the hinge.
2. Release the Locking Mechanism
There’s a locking mechanism on the bonnet stay that keeps it in place. To release it, press the small button or lever.
3. Slide Out the Bonnet Stay
Once the locking mechanism is released, you can slide the bonnet stay out of its mountings. Be careful not to drop it.
4. Set Aside the Bonnet Stay
Once the bonnet stay is removed, set it aside in a safe place. You’ll need to re-install it later.
Step 4: Replacing the Bonnet Stay
Now that you have removed the bonnet stay, you can replace it with a new one. Here’s how:
1. Insert the New Bonnet Stay
Take the new bonnet stay and insert it into its mountings. Make sure it’s positioned correctly, with the locking mechanism facing the right way.
2. Secure the Locking Mechanism
Push the locking mechanism into place to secure the bonnet stay. Ensure it’s engaged and locked.
3. Test the Bonnet Stay
Gently close the bonnet and check if it stays open when you release the handle. If it doesn’t, adjust the stay or locking mechanism as needed.
Reclosing the Bonnet
Step 1: Align the bonnet with the latch on the radiator support.
Step 2: Lower the bonnet slowly and firmly until it meets the latch.
Step 3: Press down on the center of the bonnet to ensure it is fully seated.
Step 4: Engage the secondary safety latch by pushing down on the lever located in the center of the grille.
Step 5: Verify that the bonnet is securely closed by attempting to lift it slightly.
Additional Tips
The following table provides some additional tips for safely and effectively opening the bonnet of a Honda CR-V:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use caution when operating the bonnet release lever. | The lever can be stiff, and excessive force could damage it. |
| Check the bonnet latch for proper alignment and lubrication. | A misaligned or dry latch can make it difficult to open or close the bonnet. |
| If the bonnet is frozen shut, apply a de-icing spray or warm water to the latch area. | Never force the bonnet open, as this could damage the vehicle. |
Ensuring Secure Closure
To ensure a secure closure of the Honda CR-V bonnet, follow these detailed steps:
- Ensure Proper Alignment: Check that the bonnet is aligned properly with the fenders and grille before closing.
- Lower the Bonnet: Carefully lower the bonnet by hand until it is about 3 inches away from the closed position.
- Give a Slight Push: Apply a firm downward push on the center of the bonnet, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Check the Latch: Verify that the bonnet latch has fully engaged by flipping the latch lever up and down.
- Apply Pressure at Corners: Firmly press down on the corners of the bonnet to ensure a tight closure.
- Double-Check: Pull up slightly on the bonnet from the center to confirm that it is securely latched.
- Listen for a Click: When the bonnet is fully closed and latched, you should hear a distinct click sound.
- Secure the Hood Prop: If you used a hood prop to keep the bonnet open, stow it securely in its designated location.
- Check the Latch Mechanism Regularly: Periodically inspect the bonnet latch mechanism for any signs of wear or damage and lubricate it as needed.
| Inspection Points | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Bonnet Latch Mechanism | Every 6 months or 6,000 miles |
| Bonnet Hinge Pins | Every 12 months or 12,000 miles |
| Bonnet Adjusters | As needed, if misalignment is observed |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The Hood Release Lever Is Not Working
If the hood release lever is not working, there may be a problem with the latch mechanism or the cable. Try pulling the lever a few more times to see if it will open. If it doesn’t, you can try to open the hood manually using the emergency release.
The Hood Is Not Opening All the Way
If the hood is not opening all the way, there may be an obstruction in the way. Check for any wires, hoses, or other objects that may be preventing the hood from opening fully.
The Hood Is Stuck
if the hood is stuck, you can try to pry it open using a screwdriver or other tool. Be careful not to damage the hood or the paint on your car.
The Hood Latch Is Broken
If the hood latch is broken, you will need to replace it. This is a relatively simple repair that you can do yourself with a few basic tools.
The Hood Cable Is Broken
If the hood cable is broken, you will need to replace it. This is a more difficult repair, but it is still possible to do it yourself with some mechanical skills.
The Hood Hinge Is Broken
If the hood hinge is broken, you will need to replace it. This is a more difficult repair that should be done by a professional mechanic.
The Hood Release Lever Is Loose
If the hood release lever is loose, you can tighten it by unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place and then tightening them back up.
The Hood Release Cable Is Disconnected
If the hood release cable is disconnected, you can reconnect it by simply plugging it back into the proper place.
The Hood Release Lever Is Broken
If the hood release lever is broken, you will need to replace it. This is a relatively simple repair that you can do yourself with a few basic tools.
| Troubleshooting Common Issues | Solutions |
|---|---|
| The hood release lever is not working | Pull the lever a few more times, use the emergency release, or check the latch mechanism or cable. |
| The hood is not opening all the way | Check for any obstructions in the way. |
| The hood is stuck | Pry it open using a screwdriver or other tool. |
| The hood latch is broken | Replace it with a new one. |
| The hood cable is broken | Replace it with a new one. |
| The hood hinge is broken | Replace it with a new one. |
| The hood release lever is loose | Tighten the bolts that hold it in place. |
| The hood release cable is disconnected | Reconnect it by plugging it back into the proper place. |
| The hood release lever is broken | Replace it with a new one. |
How to Open the Bonnet of a Honda CR-V
If you need to access the engine compartment of your Honda CR-V, you will need to open the bonnet. Here are the steps on how to do it:
-
Locate the bonnet release lever inside the vehicle. It is usually located on the driver’s side, near the left footwell.
-
Pull the bonnet release lever to release the bonnet latch.
-
Go to the front of the vehicle and lift the bonnet up slightly.
-
Locate the bonnet prop rod and insert it into the hole on the bonnet to keep it open.
To close the bonnet, simply lift it up slightly and then let it fall closed. Make sure that the bonnet latch engages properly.
People also ask
Where is the bonnet release lever on a Honda CR-V?
The bonnet release lever is usually located on the driver’s side, near the left footwell.
How do I open the bonnet of my Honda CR-V without the key?
If you do not have the key, you can use a flathead screwdriver to pry open the bonnet. Insert the screwdriver into the keyhole and twist it to release the latch.
How do I keep the bonnet of my Honda CR-V open?
Once you have opened the bonnet, locate the bonnet prop rod and insert it into the hole on the bonnet to keep it open.
