I noticed when I got home today that the hood of my car was ajar. Funny thing is the data center never notified me. Good thing traffic was bad & I didn't get on the freeway or it could have gotten ugly. Anyways I noticed what appears to be a hood sensor on the passenger side of the vehicle that is attached to the inside lip of the fender. I wonder if I have a bad sensor..... Any suggestions????

I know.. I know "take it to the dealer... it's under warranty.. right???"

I just never noticed a "hood ajar" notification in the data center before -- even when you run the diagnostic it makes no mention of it. :scratch:

 

maybe the sensor is for the alarm?!

 

didn't think of that... I wonder how to find out for sure??? Maybe i'll try keeping the trigger mechanisim depressed while arming the alarm. Once I release it -- if it is for the alarm... all heck should break loose. If not... something is definitely wrong.

 

Is it possible you are confusing the sensor with the ground strap?

 

I don't believe so -- It's almost like a spring type mechanisim that's covered in black plastic. When the hood is lowered it connects with the device - obviously letting the computer know that the hood is closed. I'm still trying to determine if it's related to the alarm or if it's for something else. I'll try to post a pic when I get the chance. But you can't miss it if you look under your hood. It's on the passenger side of the vehicle - about 12inches or so up from the front - secured by one of the bolts that attaches the fender to the frame.

 

The momentary switch on the passenger side of the car (left side if standing in front). Is for the hood intrusion detection. Pop the hood, hold the button down, arm the alarm, wait for 20 seconds. And let go of the switch! The alarm will sound. Same device is in the trunk as well!

If you arm the alarm without holding the button you'll notice the lights do not flash, and the horn beeps twice warning you something isn't closed.

 

Yeah that **** is definitely for the alarm.

Was changing the oil Sunday, had finished up underneath and was pouring in a quart of oil and leaning against the car at the edge of the engine compartment with my right hand while pouring with my left - in my garage, alarm OFF - was leaning on that switch without realizing and all of a sudden, the alarm went off and scared the CRAP outta me!

 

Didn't spill any oil did ya?

 

Basic question is - why was your hood ajar in the first place?

 

That sensor is for the alarm. To test it, sit in your car. Close the door, open the door and then lock it using the control on door. Don't get out of the car. Now pop the hood. The alarm will go off. There is no sensor for a "hood ajar". Those are only on the doors and trunk.

 

that's a good question -- I didn't notice it until I got home. I had just washed my car sunday - so it was definitely closed. Can you say " Twilight Zone" -- But you're all right -- it's definitely the alarm sensor.