Rep Power: 0

I'm in a tough spot and could use some help.
I have a 1995 honda civic ex, 2 dr coupe.

The hood latch stopped working, I took the cable end from the inside hood release latch and pulled with a pair of pliers, it pulls too freely, must be a cable break close to the latch.

I removed the front bumber clips from each side of bumper where it attaches to the fender, and the 8 or so bolts underneith the front edge which holds on the lowwer fender 'guard'. I pried back the bumber almost to the point of breaking but I still can't get to the hood latch from underneith because there is a plastic guard that extends back from the bumber about 2 feet (under the radiator and AC radiators).

I can't unbolt the bumber because I can't get the hood open. I can't get my hand up because of the attached bumber.

I even cut through one of my plasitc grill panes (I can superglue it later) so I could get my arm in the grill. However there are two or three metal hoses that crisscross the front which prevents me from getting to the hood latch mechinism.

How the hell am I suposed to get this thing popped?

Any advice?

 
Rep Power: 235

That "plastic guard" underneath is called a splash guard. It isn't absolutely needed, most of us don't run with one. Cut it off for access. Stick a flathead in the lock and twist.

If you want another one go to the salvage yard or #7: http://www.hondapartscheap.com/south...t=0&quantity=0

 
Rep Power: 0

At the risk of sounding like an idiot, what lock?
If I cut off the splash guard then I can possibly reach up from the bottom to touch the latch mech. which is housed in a metal box (top is where holding hooks come out).

I'm not sure which part of that is considered the lock, and what part I should be applying pressure to with a screwdriver.

 
Rep Power: 235

Put the flathead in between where the lock mechanism holds the hood latch and twist. You're twisting to push the tooth in the lock mechanism back so it will release the hood latch.

 
Rep Power: 0

Had same thing happen to me, actually my daughter's '95 Civic EX. Found tonight, inside unLatch Lever/Pull didn't work to pop open the hood the normal 1/2 " or so for access to then move Spring Lever to open rest fo way. I took earlier written advice....'Flathead in the spot & twist'...worked well - Thx! Then found that latch mechanism was siezed (apparently w/ sludge/dirt/rust)....sprayed heavily w/ WD40 and worked Latch/Lock a bunch; Latch then moved more freely. Took a chance and closed Hood; used inside unLatch and all then worked well. Thx Again!