Yes, dumb question...but I consistently struggle to close the hood on my 2001 911 Turbo. Are there any good strategies I can use to make this an easier process? Here are the strategies I've tried...all with extremely limited success rates.

1. Lower hood to approximately 6" away from latch, quickly use both hands to push it down on the extreme edges. Typically takes me 3-5 times even using force this way.
2. Lower hood to approximately 6" away from latch, quickly use one hand to push it down at the hood crest. Didn't work for me, and I've heard it's not good to apply force at the hood crest at all.
3. Lower hood to approximately 8-10" away from latch, let it drop. This never worked, and I'm guessing the hood shocks won't really permit this strategy from a taller starting height.

Help me stop making a fool of myself please!

 

I close it slowly till it makes it's first latch, than push just below the crest slowly until the second latch catches. You may want to screw the rubber bumpers in the front corners of the hood in a little bit if yours are out too much.

 

+1 I do the same technique

 

it is not meant to close on the first try..it's a two step process...best method is to lower it to an inch or two, let go of it and let it shut part way...then I use a clean towel/rag to place pressure with my fingers spread along the leading edge to engage the lock...works every time...

 

Exactly. And never push on the emblem, push below it.

 

Help me stop making a fool of myself please! [/quote]

You could start by calling parts by their names so that we can communicate effectively. The hood, or decklid, covers the engine. The trunk, or boot cover, on a 911, is in the front. It's pretty easy when you think about it.

 

^^^^ditto

 

You could start by calling parts by their names so that we can communicate effectively. The hood, or decklid, covers the engine. The trunk, or boot cover, on a 911, is in the front. It's pretty easy when you think about it.[/quote]

It's the boot and the bonnett!! :P

 

Man, having a bad day? You could use a little more tact and less jerk... But it is typical dtmarsh style...

I think it was very clear since there is no crest on the engine cover...

 

I thought of that while composing my post, but it's clear that most vendors do use the term "hood" for the same part I'm referring to, so I'm guessing it's not just me. Thanks for taking the time out of your day to answer my post nonetheless.

 

I use a similar technique, except I specifically use the heel of my palm on the hood...closer to the bumper than the emblem.

 

The quick reference guide that comes with the cars shows using two hands ,placing them next to the crest, one on each side of it, and gently pressing down until it latches.

 

I'll be eagerly trying out these tips tomorrow, and particularly on a road trip (with real luggage!) that we're taking next Friday. Thanks guys!

 

+1, I don't like slamming the hood, prefer to do it nice and smoothly.

 

i carry a rubber hammer beat the hell out of it till it closes. if that doesn't work i let my wife out and she rides in the cabin with me