How to open the hood on a Nissan Sunny: 3 methods + problem solving

Open the hood to Nissan Sunny It seems like a simple task - until you encounter a jammed lever, a broken cable, or an unexpected blockage. This model, produced from 1982 to 2006 (and later in some countries), has several generations (B14, B15, N16, N17), and in each of them the hood opening mechanism is designed differently. In 80% of cases problems arise due to cable oxidation, broken lock spring or simple ignorance of the location of the hidden lever.

In this article - 3 proven methods open the hood (including without a key), unique table of method compatibility with generations Sunny, as well as instructions on how to repair the cable and lock yourself. If you are faced with a situation where the hood cannot be opened either from the interior or from the outside, here you will find a solution, including emergency measures with minimal risk of damage to the body.

Where is the hood release lever located in Nissan Sunny?

In most generations Nissan Sunny the hood release lever is located to the left of the driver's seat, but its exact location depends on the year of manufacture and configuration. Here are the key options:

• 🔹 B14 (1990–1995): The lever is hidden under the instrument panel, next to the clutch pedal. It is often confused with adjusting headlights.
• 🔹 B15 (1995–2000): The lever is located at the level of the driver's knee, next to the fuse box. Has a red or orange handle.
• 🔹 N16/N17 (2000–2006): The lever is integrated into the lower part of the panel, next to the trunk release lever. Can be hidden with a plastic plug.

On some export versions (for example, for the Japanese market) the lever is moved under the steering column - it can be found if you remove the bottom plastic cover. If you are unsure of the location, please note hood icon (stylized image of the front of the machine) on the handle.

Important: on models with right hand drive (for example, Japanese versions) the lever is located to the right of the driver - a mirror image compared to left-handed cars. If you can't find the lever, check instruction manual (section "Opening the hood") or inspect the area under the steering wheel with a flashlight.

Method 1: Standard opening from the passenger compartment

This is a basic method that works in 95% of cases if the mechanism is working properly. Follow the step by step instructions:

1. Make sure the car is parked flat surface, and the handbrake is activated.
2. Locate the hood release lever (see section above) and pull it towards you as far as it will go.
3. Go to the front of the car and find safety latch under the hood (usually in the center, under the emblem Nissan).
4. Gently push the latch to the left or up (depending on the model) and lift the hood at the same time.

If the lever does not return to its original position after pressing, this is a sign cable break or spring breakage. In this case, go to emergency methods.

Park on a level surface|Handbrake set|Engine off|Key removed from ignition|Cable inspected for damage-->

On Nissan Sunny N16/N17 The safety latch can be hidden under a plastic cover. To open it, click on left side of the logo (driver's side) - the trim will move, exposing the mechanism.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use excessive force when pressing the latch! On models B14 The plastic retainer can break if you press in the wrong direction. The right direction is to the left and a little up.

Method 2: Opening the hood without a key (emergency method)

If the cable breaks or the lever in the cabin does not work, you can open the hood outsideusing available means. This method requires care not to damage the paint or plastic parts.

You will need:

• 🔧 Flathead screwdriver (or metal ruler)
• 🔦 Flashlight (to illuminate the castle)
• 🧤 Fabric gloves (to avoid scratching the hood)

Step by step instructions:

1. Raise the hood 2–3 cm, placing your hands on the front edge (radiator side).
2. Insert a screwdriver into the gap between the hood and body driver's side (where the castle is located).
3. Gently press on metal lock tongue down or to the side, simulating the action of a cable.
4. As soon as you feel the latch engage, lift the hood and secure it with the stop.

On Nissan Sunny B15 The lock can be protected by an additional plastic cover. In this case it will have to break (the cost of a new one is about 300–500 rubles). An alternative is to try to get to the castle through radiator grille, having previously removed it (4 bolts).

What to do if the hood is slightly opened, but does not lock?

If the hood is raised but does not stay on the stop, use wooden block or strong ropeto lock it in the open position. Do not rely on gas struts - they may be faulty!

Generation	Method 1 (lever in the cabin)	Method 2 (screwdriver from outside)	Risk of damage
B14 (1990–1995)	✅ Works 90% of the time	⚠️ Requires removal of the radiator grille	Low (if careful)
B15 (1995–2000)	✅ Easily accessible	✅ Can be opened without removing parts	Medium (risk of breaking the rubber)
N16/N17 (2000–2006)	✅ Lever integrated into the panel	❌ Difficult (lock hidden)	High (requires bumper removal)

Method 3: Opening the hood through the radiator grille

This method is suitable for Nissan Sunny N16/N17, where the hood lock is hidden deep and inaccessible from the outside. Partial removal of the front bumper or grille will be required.

Tools:

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (or T20 bit)
• 🔨 Plastic clip remover
• 📸 Phone with flashlight (for lighting)

Algorithm of actions:

1. Remove the 2 self-tapping screws securing the radiator grille (bottom, under the license plate).
2. Carefully pull the grill towards you - it is attached to 4 plastic clips.
3. Through the resulting gap you will see lock cable (gray or black). Pull it out with pliers.
4. If the cable is broken, find metal lock tongue and press it with a screwdriver.

On Sunny B14 The radiator grille is attached differently - it can be removed by snapping 6 plastic clips around the perimeter. Be careful: the clips are fragile and often break if dismantled carelessly (replacement will cost 100–200 rubles apiece).

Typical problems and their solutions

Even if you managed to open the hood, the breakdown may occur again. Let's look at the most common faults and how to fix them:

1. The hood opening cable is broken

Signs: The lever in the cabin moves too easily, there is no click when pressed.

Solution:

• 🛠️ Replace the cable (part number for B15: 72501-4M000, cost ~800 rubles).
• 🔧 Temporary repair: tie to a broken cable strong fishing line and pull it towards the lever.

2. The hood lock is jammed

Signs: The lever is pulled, but the hood does not open; A grinding noise is heard when you try to operate the latch.

Solution:

• 💧 Pour into the castle WD-40 or rust remover (Liqui Moly Rostloser).
• 🔨 Knock on the lock rubber mallet, pull the lever at the same time.

3. The lock spring is broken

Signs: The hood opens, but does not lock in the up position; The lock does not return to its original state.

Solution: Replace the spring (part number for N16: 72505-4M000). Temporary option - screed, but it won't last long.

⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Sunny B14 with an automatic transmission, the hood opening cable runs next to power steering. When replacing, do not confuse it with the clutch cable (it is thinner and has a red braid)!

Prevention: how to avoid problems with the hood

To avoid encountering a stuck hood at the most inopportune moment, follow these tips:

• 🔧 Lubricate every six months cable And castle silicone grease (CRC 5-56 or equivalent).
• 🚗 After washing under the hood, check to see if water has gotten into the lock mechanism.
• 🔍 Inspect the cable for abrasions or corrosion during each maintenance.
• 🔑 Keep a spare cable in the trunk (costs ~500 rubles, but will save your nerves).

On Sunny N17 (after 2004) installed reinforced cable with Teflon coating. If you have an earlier model, consider installing it - this will increase the service life of the mechanism by 2-3 times.

If you often park in places with high humidity (for example, underground parking lots), treat the cable anti-corrosion composition (Molykote G-4500). This will prevent oxidation and breakage.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about opening the hood on Nissan Sunny

❓ Is it possible to open the hood if the key in the ignition is broken?

Yes, but it will be required remove the plastic trim under the steering wheelto reach the cable manually. On B15 To do this, you need to unscrew 3 screws with a Phillips screwdriver. An alternative is to use spare key or call a locksmith to remove the debris.

❓ Why doesn’t the alarm go off after opening the hood?

On Nissan Sunny With factory alarm, the hood sensor is located on right side member. If it doesn't work, check:

• Integrity of the sensor wire (often rubs against the body).
• Setting the alarm sensitivity (in some cases it is required retraining keychain).

❓ How to open the hood if the car is deformed after an accident?

If the front is dented, try:

1. Disconnect battery (if there is access to the terminals).
2. Use jackto lift the hood and get to the lock.
3. As a last resort - cut off the loops grinder (only if the car is for recycling).

On Sunny B14 after a frontal impact it often jams left loop — it can be released by knocking it down with a hammer.

❓ How much does it cost to repair a hood lock at a service center?

Prices depend on the fault:

Type of repair	Cost (RUB)
Replacing the cable	1 200–2 000
Lock repair (cleaning, lubrication)	800–1 500
Replacing the lock spring	1 500–2 500
Complete lock replacement	3 000–5 000

You can save money by purchasing spare parts yourself (for example, a cable for B15 costs ~800 rubles, and the service will sell it for 1,500+).