96 Corolla Hood won't stay closed!!

Hello all,

The hood unlocking latch is stuck in the open position and will not stay closed if I press it in.
Furthermore, the actual hood will not close all the way either. Can I please get some advice on
this??? This has never been a problem with my vehicle before.

Thanks in advance!

Clean and lubricate the latching mechanism. Make sure the spring is still there and is functioning. Check around the hood for obstructions, tools, debri, etc. Look at the hood carefully and see why it is not lining up.

Welcome to the AF!

In addition to what Kim said above, if your hood is cable-operated, spray some penetrating oil on the cable ends and see if you can get the cable to free up by wiggling the outer sheath.

Also, put some spray grease on the hood hinges and work the hood up and down. Check the hood stand-offs to see if someone accidentally unscrewed one too far and is preventing the hood from closing. They are the adjustment to keep the hood level with the front quarter panels, but if you unscrew them too much, they may keep the hood from closing.

You may have to replace the cable if it is what is stuck.