Answer
Oct 29, 2025 - 06:34 PM
Happens all the time on these Rangers. Usually the hood release cable is either sticking or the latch is just gummed up. Try this first — have someone pull the release inside and hold it, and while they’re doing that, go to the front and push down on the hood right above the latch, then try lifting it. A lot of times it just needs that little nudge to take the pressure off.
If it’s still not moving, the latch is probably stuck. You can usually reach through the grille with a long screwdriver and push the latch arm over to pop it. The lever is right behind the badge area, kind of tucked slightly to one side.
If the cable’s actually snapped, you’ll need to get to the latch from the grille or from underneath. The grille pops off on these without too much drama — just be gentle so you don't break the clips.
Once you get it open, clean the latch good (brake cleaner works), then grease it — white lithium or whatever you’ve got that isn’t peanut butter thick. Make sure the cable housing is seated where it clips in too, so it actually pulls instead of flexes.
Hope this helps 👍🏻
