How to replace a hood latch assembly yourself

Step by step guide to replace a hood latch assembly yourself Hood latch replacement cost at a shop

A hood latch assembly replacement costs between $145 and $295 plus labor of about .75-hr. The price really depends on whether the part is a dealer-only item or whether it can be purchased in the aftermarket for less. It’s not a complicated repair and you can replace a hood latch assembly yourself using just an ordinary socket set.

Hood latch replacement steps

Most hood latches are held in place by three bolts. Open the hood and secure it with the prop-rod. Next check if the hood latch incorporates an alarm switch. If so, disconnect the alarm switch electrical connector. Then locate the three hex bolts holding the latch to the radiator support.

Remove the old latch and swap in the new latch. Then reconnect the alarm switch (if equipped)

Most common cause of latch failure

Rust is the most common cause of latch failure. It can cause a hood to rust shop and not open when you operate the release lever.

In worst cases, the latch can be so rusted that  you break the release lever in the cabin or break the release cable.

The best way to prevent this is to lubricate the latch with spray white lithium grease.

Hood latch replacement cost examples

A replacement hood latch for a 2010 Mazda CX-7 with an alarm system costs about $150 from the dealer. The same latch without an alarm switch is around $80. However, an aftermarket latch for this vehicle costs around $50 (without alarm).

©, 2022 Rick Muscoplat