2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser Owner's Manual - Page 92

92 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD To open the hood, two latches must be released. First pull the hood release lever located under the left side of the instrument panel. Use the hood prop rod clipped to the driver's side of the engine compartment to secure the hood in the open position. Place the hood prop at the location stamped into the inner hood surface. To prevent possible damage, do not slam the hood to close it. Lower the hood until it is open approximately 20 cm (8 inches) and then drop it. This should secure both latches. Never drive your vehicle unless the hood is fully closed, with both latches engaged. WARNING! If the hood is not fully latched it could fly up when the vehicle is moving and block your forward vision. You could have a collision. Be sure all hood latches are fully latched before driving. Then move the safety catch located under the front edge of the hood, near the center and slightly to the right, and raise the hood.