Need HELP!! Hood Won't Open
 

Hi folks, new here. I have an 87 325 BMW. I have to add water to the radiator once a week. I try to add water this morning but the cable that realeases the lock to open the hood broke. Now I can't open the hood and desperately need to add water to the radiator. Does any one know how I can open the hood? Any suggestions will be much appreciate it.

Thanks

Did the cable break at the release lever inside the car?

Yes the cable did break at the release level inside the car. So I figure I can get a set of good old pliers and that should do the job. When I pull on the cable, nothing happens. I purchased some grip vice pliers thinking this will do the job. but no cigar.

Any ideas?

Not sure if your car is the same...

While I was working on my car (1993 318i) the other day, I noticed that there is a small hole in the kidney grill area that is just in front of the hood latch. I believe that it is put there just for this problem. They probably have a special tool that you can stick through the kidney grill and unlatch the hood.

I haven't tried this, but I believe if you stick a clothes hanger that is bent just the right way, you can grab the hood latch (pull it forward) and release it.

I agree, that is the way you will have to get it open.

Thanks guys... I will try it.

While it's open, you might also want to lubricate all the catches and the guide tube for the cable, to prevent the cable from snapping again.