Expert: William Forster - 7/31/2007

Question
I recently changed my oil in my jeep and when finished I never latched my hood. To make a long story short the hood sprang up when I was driving. I quickly slammed the hood closed and went home the hood had slid towards the windshield. Once I open the hood it was pressing against a plastic piece between the window and the hood . I have tried to readjust the hood with no luck. Is it the hood hinges do you believe they are wrecked I pulled them out and they seem to be ok however I don't know the difference between a good hood hinge and a bad one. I just don't know if I am overlooking something small.

Answer
The hinges are bent, plain and simple. A bent hinge can be pretty subtle, and not be obvious when just looking at the hinge. I've seen this dozens and dozens of times. The hinge mounting points are also likely bent, and the combination of the two are throwing the hood alignment. I would consider buying new hinges, but they may still be off. One trick is to ream the mounting holes larger, elongating the adjustment slots. This will gain you some more adjustment, without having to purchase a hinge. Bill