2009 Jeep Patriot Owner's Manual - Page 124

122 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 2. Move the safety catch located under the front edge of the hood, near the center and raise the hood. CAUTION! To prevent possible damage, do not slam the hood to close it. Lower the hood until it is open approximately 8 in (20 cm) 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. Safety Catch Lift the hood prop rod, clipped to the right side (left side facing hood) 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.