Expert: William Forster - 12/30/2008

Question
I have a hood that I can not get open.I made a mistake and now I do not know how to fix it. My car was running hot and I was going to check the water so I opened the hood and but did not raise it up and then  I got distracted .I started driving and the hood flew all the way back over my windshield and then when I stopped it went back down and closed and now I can not get it to open. It is not closed all thye way,but, I can't get it open. How can I get the hood open or what do you suggest? Is there any way to pry it open?

Answer
Mel, I have no idea what sort of vehicle this is- that would help a little. The hood and hinges are probably totally ruined, that's why it's jammed against the striker. It's probably ruined also. About all I can suggest is getting a helper, have him pull the latch while you first push down on the hood- then try prying up with some sort of prybar or large screwdriver. If that don't work, you need to visit a body shop. Bill