Hood Latch Adjustment Cost Guide
Basic Hood Latch Adjustment
A simple adjustment of the hood latch mechanism typically takes 30-45 minutes to complete. This includes inspecting the latch, making basic adjustments, and testing.
Estimated Cost: $62-95
Hood Latch Cable Adjustment
Adjusting the release cable requires accessing components under the dashboard and hood area. This typically takes 45-60 minutes.
Estimated Cost: $95-125
Hood Latch Strike Plate Adjustment
Adjusting or realigning the strike plate usually takes 30-45 minutes, including removal, adjustment, and proper reinstallation.
Estimated Cost: $62-95
Complete Hood Latch System Adjustment
A comprehensive adjustment of all hood latch components, including the latch mechanism, cable, and strike plate typically takes 1-1.5 hours.
Estimated Cost: $125-190
*Note: These prices reflect labor costs only at our standard rate of $125/hour. Additional parts, if needed, would be extra. Prices may vary based on vehicle make and model.
Additional Considerations:
- Diagnostic time may be required for complex issues
- Replacement parts are not included in these estimates
- Some vehicles may require additional time due to design complexity
- Emergency service calls may incur additional fees
Hood Latch Adjustment Procedures
Primary Latch Adjustment
Tools needed:Socket set, screwdriver, marker
1. Open the hood and locate the primary latch mechanism on the hood.
2. Loosen (but don't remove) the mounting bolts that secure the latch to the hood.
3. Mark the original position of the latch before adjusting.
4. Adjust the latch position slightly up/down or left/right as needed.
5. Tighten the mounting bolts and test the hood closure.
6. Repeat adjustment if necessary until proper alignment is achieved.
Secondary (Safety) Latch Adjustment
Tools needed:Socket set, pliers, safety glasses
1. Locate the secondary latch mechanism under the front of the hood.
2. Loosen the mounting bolts securing the catch mechanism to the vehicle frame.
3. Adjust the catch position forward or backward to achieve proper engagement.
4. Verify that the safety catch engages correctly when the hood is partially closed.
5. Tighten all mounting hardware securely.
Strike Plate Adjustment
Tools needed:Socket set, wrench, measuring tape
1. Locate the strike plate on the vehicle's front panel.
2. Loosen the mounting bolts holding the strike plate.
3. Adjust the plate up/down or left/right to align with the latch.
4. Ensure the hood closes smoothly without excessive force.
5. Tighten all bolts to manufacturer specifications.
Cable Adjustment
Tools needed:Pliers, lubricant, cable tool
1. Locate the hood release cable near the primary latch.
2. Check for proper cable tension and movement.
3. Adjust the cable tension using the adjustment nut if available.
4. Lubricate all moving parts and cable connections.
5. Test the hood release multiple times to ensure smooth operation.
Important Safety Note:Always verify that both primary and secondary latches are functioning correctly after any adjustment. An improperly adjusted hood latch can lead to dangerous situations while driving.
Note: These procedures may vary depending on vehicle make and model. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions.
Understanding Hood Latch Adjustments

Primary Hood Latch
Theprimary hood latchis the main securing mechanism that keeps your vehicle's hood firmly closed during operation. Located at the front of the vehicle, this latch engages automatically when you close your hood and is typically released by pulling a lever inside your vehicle, usually near the driver's side footwell.
Key functions of the primary hood latch:
- Provides the main securing point for the hood
- Prevents hood from opening while driving
- Creates a tight seal between hood and vehicle body
Secondary Hood Latch
Thesecondary hood latch, also known as the safety catch or hood stop, acts as a backup security measure. This additional latch prevents the hood from flying open even if the primary latch fails or is accidentally released. When you pull the interior hood release, the hood only opens partially, requiring you to reach under the hood to disengage the secondary latch.
Key functions of the secondary hood latch:
- Provides backup safety mechanism
- Prevents hood from fully opening accidentally
- Requires manual release for added security
Auxiliary Hood Latch
Theauxiliary hood latchis an optional third securing point found on some vehicles, particularly performance or heavy-duty models. This additional latch provides extra security and stability, especially important for vehicles that experience high speeds or severe operating conditions.
Key functions of the auxiliary hood latch:
- Offers additional securing point for enhanced safety
- Provides extra stability during high-speed operation
- Reduces hood flutter and vibration
Note: Regular maintenance and inspection of all hood latches is essential for proper vehicle safety and operation.
Primary Hood Latch Adjustment
The primary hood latch adjustment involves setting the correct tension and alignment of the main latch mechanism that secures your hood when fully closed. This adjustment ensures the hood sits flush with the body panels and creates a proper seal. A correctly adjusted primary latch prevents hood vibration during driving and maintains even panel gaps around the hood.
Secondary Hood Latch Adjustment
The secondary (or safety) hood latch adjustment controls the backup latch mechanism that prevents the hood from flying open if the primary latch fails. This adjustment ensures the safety catch engages properly and can be easily released when needed. A properly adjusted secondary latch provides an essential safety feature while still allowing smooth hood operation.
Hood Bumper Adjustment
Hood bumper adjustment involves setting the height of the rubber stops that support the hood when closed. These bumpers ensure the hood sits at the correct height and maintains even pressure across all contact points. Proper bumper adjustment prevents hood misalignment, reduces noise, and protects the paint from damage due to metal-on-metal contact.
Hood Cable Adjustment
The hood cable adjustment controls the release mechanism's tension and travel distance. This adjustment ensures the hood release handle inside the vehicle operates smoothly and effectively engages/disengages both latches. Correct cable adjustment prevents situations where the hood is either too difficult to open or doesn't latch securely.
Hood Hinge Adjustment
Hood hinge adjustment involves aligning the hood's mounting points to ensure proper fitment and operation. This adjustment controls the hood's forward/backward and side-to-side positioning, as well as its height relative to surrounding body panels. Proper hinge adjustment is crucial for maintaining even panel gaps and preventing binding during hood operation.
Common Hood Latch Failure Symptoms and Misalignment Issues
Hood Latch Adjustment - Signs of Failure and Maintenance Guide
Primary Hood Latch
Signs of Failure:
- Hood feels loose or rattles while driving
- Difficulty engaging or releasing the latch
- Grinding or squeaking noise when operating hood
- Visible rust or corrosion on latch mechanism
Service Schedule: Inspect and lubricate every 12 months or 12,000 miles. Adjust if needed during regular maintenance.
Secondary (Safety) Hood Latch
Signs of Failure:
- Hood doesn't catch on secondary latch when released
- Visible damage or bent components
- Excessive play in the safety catch
- Corrosion or seized mechanism
Service Schedule: Inspect every 6 months for proper operation. Clean and lubricate annually.
Hood Release Cable
Signs of Failure:
- Increased resistance when pulling release handle
- Cable feels loose or disconnected
- Hood release handle doesn't return properly
- Complete failure to release hood
Service Schedule: Check operation during each oil change. Replace cable if showing signs of wear or every 5-7 years.
Hood Bumpers/Stops
Signs of Failure:
- Uneven hood height when closed
- Hood metal-to-metal contact
- Deteriorated or missing rubber bumpers
- Hood misalignment
Service Schedule: Inspect during regular maintenance. Replace bumpers every 3-5 years or when showing wear.
Note: These are general guidelines. Specific service intervals may vary by vehicle make and model. Consult your owner's manual for manufacturer recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.