body

Hood Latch

for 2003 Dodge Viper 8.3L V10 · RWD

Difficulty

Easy

Time

1.0 h

Tools

Steps

✓Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.

Remove and replace the hood latch assembly on a 2005 Dodge Viper, including cable disconnection and adjustment.

Warnings

⚠Support the hood in the open position using the hood prop rod before beginning work. Never work under an unsupported hood.

ℹ️The hood latch is located at the front center of the radiator support. Access is straightforward with the hood open.

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential

13mm socket and ratchetEssential

Flat-blade screwdriverEssential

Needle-nose pliersEssential

Torque wrenchEssential

T25 Torx driver

Panel trim tool

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Parts

Hood latch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
Hood release cable (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Preparation

Open the hood and secure it with the hood prop rod
Inspect the hood latch and cable for visible damage or corrosion
Test the hood release handle inside the vehicle to confirm the cable moves freely before disassembly

Procedure

1
Disconnect hood release cable
Locate the hood release cable attachment point on the latch mechanism. Use needle-nose pliers to compress the cable end retaining clip and slide the cable end off the latch lever. Note the routing and position of any cable guides or clips for reinstallation.
2
Remove cable from latch bracket
Locate the cable housing retainer on the latch bracket. Press the retaining tabs on the cable housing and pull the housing out of the bracket. The cable should now be completely free from the latch assembly.
3
Remove hood latch mounting bolts
Remove the bolts securing the hood latch assembly to the mounting bracket/crossmember (verify count and socket size against the 2005 Viper service manual). Support the latch as you remove the last bolt to prevent it from falling. The latch is mounted to the front upper crossmember/radiator support tie bar area. Verify exact mounting surface orientation against the 2005 Viper service manual before removal. Support the latch as you remove the second bolt to prevent it from falling.
Torque spec
Hood Latch Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
4
Remove latch assembly
Lift the hood latch assembly away from the radiator support. Inspect the mounting surface on the radiator support for damage, cracks, or corrosion. Clean the mounting surface if necessary before installing the new latch.
5
Prepare new latch assembly
Compare the new latch assembly to the old one to confirm correct part. Note the position of any adjustment slots or shims on the old latch if present. Transfer any reusable hardware or shims to the new latch if applicable.
6
Install new latch assembly
Position the new hood latch on the radiator support mounting surface. Align the bolt holes and start both mounting bolts by hand. Do not fully tighten yet to allow for adjustment.
Torque spec
Hood Latch Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
7
Reconnect hood release cable
Insert the cable housing into the latch bracket until the retaining tabs click into place. Attach the cable end to the latch lever, ensuring the cable end retaining clip seats properly. Pull gently on the cable to verify it is secured.
8
Adjust latch position
Close the hood slowly and observe alignment between the latch and its mating striker. Verify which component (latch vs. striker) is mounted on the hood versus the body per the 2005 Viper service manual. The latch should engage the striker smoothly without forcing. If adjustment is needed, loosen the mounting bolts and shift the latch position slightly. The latch can typically be adjusted up/down and forward/back within the slotted mounting holes.
9
Torque mounting bolts
Once latch alignment is correct, torque both hood latch mounting bolts to the value specified in the 2005 Viper service manual (verify against factory spec) using a torque wrench and the correct socket. Confirm socket size and torque value match the actual fastener before final tightening. Verify the latch does not shift during final tightening.
Torque spec
Hood Latch Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
10
Test hood operation
Close the hood completely and verify it latches securely. Pull upward on the front edge of the hood to confirm it is locked. From inside the vehicle, pull the hood release handle and verify the latch releases smoothly. Repeat the test 3-4 times to ensure consistent operation.

Reassembly

Installation is the reverse of removal with adjustment as described in steps 8-9
Ensure the hood release cable is routed properly and does not contact sharp edges or hot components
Verify the cable housing is fully seated in the latch bracket before final testing

Verification

The hood should close smoothly and latch securely without excessive force
The hood release handle inside the vehicle should operate with normal effort and fully release the latch
With the hood closed and latched, pull upward on the front center of the hood to verify it does not open
Open and close the hood 3-4 times to confirm consistent latch engagement and release