I just got 1998 Jaguar Vanden Plas four door Sedan (4.0) and I can,t open the hood because the driver side lach doesn,t release.
What can I do to open it

 

Leo, I had a similar problem with my X-Type. What you will need to do is get the front end of the car up in the air and be able to crawl under the vehicle. From there you can attempt to reach up and pull on the cable for the hood release. This should pop the hood. From there, take some WD-40 and spray the latch assembly on each side really good. Then if you can, use some oil like 3-in-1 oil and apply some to the cable itself (may require lifting the hood release assemblies from the crossmember). This will ensure the cable does not hang up on your in the future.

Just to ask a silly question, but when you pull the hood release, is it really easy to pull? If so, you may have to buy a new cable as the one that you currently have either has a broken cable or the lead ball on the end has been pulled off. Either way, a new cable is required.

if you need more help, let me know.

 

If Thermos suggestion won't work (and it is a long reach, with stuff in the way), then your other alternative is to use a hole saw and make a 1' penetration at the appropriate spot in the wheel well at abot 1:00. A poster on another forum used this method. It seems drastic, but you can get rubber filler plugs. I would get another car, or good photos to use as a target so you can tell exactly what and where to do it.

 

Sparky that's the only way, send him the link.

 

Good Gosh Leo, STOP! A one INCH hole!!!!!!

 

Leo:
Here is the link:
http://forums.roadfly.com/forums/jag...8987770-1.html
Unfortunately, I can't find the pictures I PMed him. If you are gonna do this yourself, I can make you some pictures. Firemanmn (from the link) is a good fellow. I advise you get in touvh with him for advice.

 

Mattw:
You need to:
1) look at another car to see where you are "aiming" or get someone to make good underhood pictures.
2) drill a 1" hole with a hole saw through the fender inner well.
3) use a long screwdriver to "pop" the latch
4) repair the cable, latch or hardare before you close the hood.

Simple, huh?

 

Like the title says i am in need of assistance I own a 1999 xjr.
I have suspected that maybe something broke? What do I do???I just recently purchased my first Jag but where do i start????

please help Jaguar members?