Ford Focus - Bonnet release trouble

March 01, 2022
Ford Focus - Bonnet release trouble After removing the under shield and accessing the outer cable it can be gripped tightly and then turning it may often release the bonnet, however a new cable will be required
Share:

The bonnet on this 2006 Ford Focus 1.6 had very likely not been opened since the last time the Focus was in my workshop, and that was around a year ago. A quick call to the owner confirmed my suspicions, and told me he had not had a need to open it, all was running OK he said.


The problem with the bonnet release system on the Focus is that the key operated cable which travels back to the lock can stretch and not turn the catch enough to release it. Another common failure is a small plastic clip in the end of the cable that can also fail and stop the bonnet from opening. I have seen a few different methods of releasing the bonnet under these circumstances, but they all result in a new catch and cable being needed, so before I started I ordered up the new parts.

In the case of this Focus, I was able to grab the outer cable of the release mechanism after removing the lower shield, by going up from underneath, and in front of the radiator. Once the cable was firmly grasped in a pair of grips I twisted it, which in turn twisted the mechanism sufficiently to pop the bonnet. Of course, once the bonnet is opened the grill can be removed and access from there on is easy.

You can download this story as a PDF, as well as other technical tips at TechTips.ie.

There are lots more Tech Tips to view, and they are all searchable, on TechTips.ie.

 
Ford Focus - Bonnet release trouble
PREVIOUS ARTICLE
ATE offers a glimpse of future braking 
NEXT ARTICLE
EV sales grow as supply continues to be a major issue 

More from GARAGE WORKSHOP

The Automechanika Birmingham Programme goes Live

The Automechanika Birmingham Programme goes Live

icon The official event programme f...
The EV charging revolution is coming – At least in China

The EV charging revolution is coming – At least in China

icon One of the big hurdles stoppin...
Introducing “Goldy” the Civic supercar slayer 

Introducing “Goldy” the Civic supercar slayer 

icon Everyone loves an underdog and...
Stay safe and secure with febi Door and Tailgate Locks

Stay safe and secure with febi Door and Tailgate Locks

icon Locks on vehicles perform a vi...
SEALEY launches new Tool Promotion 

SEALEY launches new Tool Promotion 

icon The latest Tool Promotion from...
Brembo braking - for the ultimate upgrade

Brembo braking - for the ultimate upgrade

icon Brembo has highlighted how off...

More from AUTOBIZ