How to Open 2017 Ford Escape Hood: Easy Step-by-Step Guide
If you own a 2017 Ford Escape, knowing how to open the hood is a skill you can’t afford to miss. Whether you need to check your engine, add fluids, or tackle a small repair, getting the hood open is the first step.
But sometimes, it’s not as simple as pulling a lever—especially if you’re new to this model. In this guide, you’ll discover easy, step-by-step instructions that make opening your Escape’s hood quick and hassle-free. Stick with me, and you’ll never have to struggle or guess again.
Locate The Hood Release Lever
Knowing how to locate the hood release lever on your 2017 Ford Escape is the first key step to opening the hood safely and efficiently. This lever is your gateway to accessing the engine compartment for routine checks or repairs.
Finding the hood release lever might feel tricky at first, especially if you’re new to your vehicle. But once you know where to look, it becomes second nature. Let’s break down exactly where to find it and what it looks like so you won’t have to guess next time.
Where To Find The Hood Release Lever
The hood release lever is usually located inside the vehicle, near the driver’s side. In the 2017 Ford Escape, you’ll find it just below the dashboard on the left side, close to the door. It’s tucked in a small space, so you might need to lean down slightly to spot it.
How The Lever Looks And Feels
The lever typically has a small icon of a car with an open hood. It’s made of black plastic and is easy to pull. You’ll feel a gentle pop or release when you pull it, signaling that the hood latch has been disengaged.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Don’t confuse the hood release lever with the fuel door release; they are close but serve different purposes.
- Avoid pulling too hard; a firm but controlled pull is enough to release the hood.
- If you can’t find it, check your owner’s manual or use a flashlight to see better in the dark areas under the dashboard.
Have you ever struggled to find this lever in an unfamiliar car? Now, you can approach your Ford Escape with confidence. Locating the hood release lever quickly saves time and prevents frustration during maintenance or emergencies.
Pull The Interior Hood Release
Pulling the interior hood release is your first move to open the hood on a 2017 Ford Escape. This simple action unlocks the hood latch from inside the vehicle, making it possible to access the engine bay. Knowing exactly where and how to find this release can save you time and avoid frustration, especially if you’re dealing with unexpected car troubles.
Locate The Hood Release Lever Inside Your Vehicle
The hood release lever is usually found on the driver’s side, near the lower left corner of the dashboard. It’s often tucked under the dash, close to the door, so you might need to crouch or lean in to spot it. Look for a small handle or lever marked with a symbol of an open hood.
Pull The Lever Firmly Until You Hear A Click
Once you spot the lever, pull it firmly toward you. You should hear a distinct click or pop sound—that means the hood has popped loose from its locked position. If you don’t hear anything, try pulling again with a bit more force, but don’t yank it violently.
Check That The Hood Has Partially Opened
After pulling the lever, step outside and check if the hood is slightly lifted. The interior release only unlocks the primary latch, so the hood will still be held down by a secondary catch. This partial opening lets you safely open the hood fully in the next step.
Find The Safety Latch Under The Hood
Locate the safety latch under the front edge of the hood after releasing the interior hood lever. Press or slide the latch to fully open the hood of your 2017 Ford Escape. This latch keeps the hood secure while driving.
Opening the hood of a 2017 Ford Escape is simple if you know the steps. The process involves finding the safety latch under the hood. This latch keeps the hood secure while driving. Locating it correctly is crucial for safely accessing the engine compartment. Let’s explore the steps to find this safety latch with ease. First, sit in the driver’s seat. Look for the hood release lever near the steering wheel. It is usually on the left side, below the dashboard. Pull this lever firmly. You will hear a clicking sound. This sound indicates the hood is released.
Approach The Front Of The Vehicle
Exit the car and walk to the front. The hood is slightly raised now. Stand in front of the grille. This position allows you to easily access the latch.
Feel For The Safety Latch
Slide your hand under the hood, above the grille. Move your fingers to the center. You will feel a small lever or latch. This is the safety latch. It is designed to be felt by touch.
Release The Safety Latch
Push the latch to one side or lift it upwards. The direction may vary slightly. This action fully releases the hood. Now, you can lift the hood safely.
Secure The Hood Open
Find the hood prop rod inside the engine bay. Use it to hold the hood open. Insert the rod into the designated slot. This ensures the hood stays open while you work. Understanding these steps helps in accessing the engine compartment easily. Always ensure the hood is properly secured when closing. This prevents any damage or safety issues.
Lift The Hood Fully
After releasing the hood latch on your 2017 Ford Escape, lifting the hood fully is crucial for safe and easy access to the engine compartment. This step ensures the hood stays securely open while you work, preventing any accidental closures that could cause injury or damage. Let’s focus on how to lift the hood completely and keep it stable during your maintenance tasks.
Locate The Hood Prop Rod
Once you lift the hood slightly, look for the hood prop rod inside the engine bay. It’s usually a thin metal rod attached near the front of the engine compartment. Knowing exactly where it is saves you time and frustration, especially if you’re working in low light or cold weather.
Secure The Prop Rod Into The Slot
Firmly grab the prop rod and place its end into the designated slot on the underside of the hood. This little lock-in point is designed to hold the hood steady. If you miss this step, the hood might fall unexpectedly—have you ever had a hood drop on you? It’s not fun and can be dangerous.
Check Hood Stability Before You Start
After securing the rod, gently shake the hood to ensure it’s firmly in place. A stable hood lets you work without worry, whether you’re checking fluid levels or inspecting engine parts. If it feels loose, reposition the rod immediately.
Secure The Hood With The Prop Rod
Securing the hood of your 2017 Ford Escape with the prop rod is a crucial step to keep it safely open while you work under the hood. Without properly setting the prop rod, the hood could unexpectedly fall, causing injury or damage. Taking a moment to secure it correctly ensures you have both hands free and peace of mind during your maintenance tasks.
Locate The Prop Rod
First, find the prop rod, which is usually clipped near the front of the engine bay or along the side. It’s a slim metal rod designed to hold the hood up once lifted. If you’re unsure, look for a thin rod secured by a small clip on the radiator support or the hood latch area.
Lift And Position The Hood
Raise the hood carefully until it reaches its fully open position. You’ll feel it become lighter as the hood’s gas struts take some weight. Hold it steady before moving on to the next step to avoid any sudden drops.
Insert The Prop Rod Into The Slot
Once the hood is up, take the end of the prop rod and insert it into the designated hole or slot along the underside of the hood. This slot is specifically built to hold the rod firmly in place. If you’re struggling to find the slot, gently run your fingers along the edge of the hood’s underside—you’ll feel the indentation designed for the rod.
Check Stability Before Releasing The Hood
Before letting go, give the hood a gentle shake to make sure the prop rod is securely holding it. If the hood wobbles or feels loose, reposition the rod until it fits snugly. This small check can prevent accidents and make your work under the hood much safer.
Tips For Handling The Prop Rod Safely
- Always use the prop rod even if the hood feels stable on its own.
- Keep your hands clear of pinch points when positioning the rod.
- Inspect the prop rod for any bends or damage before use.
Have you ever worked on your car only to have the hood unexpectedly drop? Taking the time to secure the hood with the prop rod can save you from that frustrating and potentially dangerous experience. How confident do you feel handling your vehicle’s hood now?
Tips For Easier Hood Opening
Opening the hood of a 2017 Ford Escape can sometimes be tricky. Small issues like dirt or poor lighting often cause delays. Simple tips can make the process smoother and faster. These ideas help avoid frustration and keep your vehicle in good shape.
Check For Obstructions
Look around the hood latch area for any dirt or debris. Leaves, dust, or small objects can block the latch. Clear these obstructions carefully with a cloth or brush. Make sure nothing is stuck inside the latch mechanism. This step helps the hood open easily without extra force.
Apply Lubricant To The Latch
Use a spray lubricant to keep the latch moving smoothly. Spray a small amount directly on the latch and hinges. Move the latch back and forth to spread the lubricant evenly. This reduces stiffness caused by rust or wear. Regular lubrication prevents the latch from sticking over time.
Use Proper Lighting
Good lighting makes finding the hood release easier. Use a flashlight or work in a well-lit area. Shine light inside the engine bay to see the latch clearly. Proper lighting helps you avoid fumbling and saves time. It also reduces the risk of accidental damage while opening the hood.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Open The Hood Of A 2017 Ford Escape?
Locate the hood release lever inside the driver’s side footwell. Pull it firmly until you hear the hood pop open.
Where Is The Hood Release Latch On A 2017 Ford Escape?
The hood release latch is under the front edge of the hood. Reach under the center to lift and fully open the hood.
Can I Open The 2017 Ford Escape Hood From Outside?
No, you must first pull the interior release lever. Then, use the exterior latch to fully open the hood.
What Should I Do If The Hood Won’t Open?
Check if the interior release lever is fully pulled. Inspect the exterior latch for obstruction or damage.
Conclusion
Opening the hood of a 2017 Ford Escape is simple with these steps. Find the lever inside your car first. Pull it to release the hood latch. Then, go to the front and lift the hood carefully. Don’t forget to secure the hood with the prop rod.
Regular checks under the hood keep your car healthy. Now you can easily access the engine and other parts. Stay safe and take your time while opening the hood. Practice makes it easier each time.
By Herbert Langham
ASE-Certified Master Technician & Garage Consultant based in Columbus, Ohio. Herbert helps drivers choose reliable automotive tools, accessories, and garage equipment through practical, experience-based advice.