Hood Latch Release Cable Frozen/Seized (Replace and Re-Route Cable)

Some customers may comment that the hood latch release cable is frozen and the hood latch lever will not release the hood latch assembly.

Moisture entering the cable assembly at the hood latch may freeze due to extreme cold temperatures causing the cable to seize. The cable may also seize from corrosion due to moisture intrusion.

To correct this condition and prevent further incidents of frozen cables, re-route the cable. If cable assembly is broken, install and re-route new cable.

Hood Latch Release Cable Replacement

1. Open the hood.
2. For sedans only, remove the upper grille. Refer to "Grille Replacement" procedure in the Exterior Trim section located in the appropriate 2003 Saturn ION Service Manual.



3. Remove the hood release cable from the latch. Note the routing of the hood release cable in the engine compartment for installation.
4. Tape a 2 m (7 ft.) length of wire to the latch end of the cable.



5. Inside the vehicle, remove the left front carpet retainer. Refer to the "Carpet Retainer Replacement - Front" procedure in the Interior Trim section located in the appropriate 2003 Saturn ION Service Manual.
6. Remove the handle from the hood latch handle bracket. Use 2 small flat-bladed tools to disengage the retainer clip.



7. Slide the handle rearward.



8. If the handle will not slide rearward, use pliers for the following steps:

•	Place one end of the pliers on the tab of the hood release lever base, near the bracket.

•	Place the other end of the pliers on the rearward edge of the bracket.

•	Squeeze the pliers.

•	If necessary, place a flat-bladed tool in the slot.




9. Pull the hood release cable through the front of the dashboard. Use a flat-bladed tool to loosen the grommet.

Installation

Notice: The cable must be routed so it "rises" as it leaves the hood latch mechanism. This upward positioning of the cable will prevent moisture intrusion.

1. Tape the feeder wire onto the end of the new hood release cable, P/N 22725598.



2. Use the feeder wire to pull the cable through the cowl grommet into the engine compartment.
3. Install the hood primary latch release cable through the hole in the instrument panel.
4. Remove the feeder from the hood release cable.
5. Install the hood release cable handle assembly onto the bracket.



6. Install the front carpet retainer. Refer to "Carpet Retainer Replacement - Front" procedure in the Interior Trim section located in the 2003 Saturn ION Body & Accessories Service Manual.



7. Using wiring harness strap, P/N 21020792, attach hood release cable to front bumper valance panel assembly at opening shown in the illustration.



8. Connect the hood release cable to the latch.
9. To prevent rattling noise, route cable so it is not making contact with any components in the engine compartment area.
10. Inspect the hood release cable for proper operation.
11. For sedans only, install the upper grille. Refer to "Grille Replacement" procedure in the Exterior Trim section located in the appropriate 2003 Saturn ION Service Manual.
12. Close the hood.

To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim through the Saturn Dealer System for B1630.

One wiring harness strap per vehicle.