Switch, Hood Ajar: Operation

The hood ajar switch is actuated by the hood latch mechanism and the hood latch striker. When the hood is closed and properly latched, the hood ajar switch is an open circuit. When the hood is open or only partially latched, the hood ajar switch is a closed circuit. The hood ajar switch is hardwired in series between ground and a signal circuit of the Body Control Module (BCM).

The BCM reads the hardwired hood ajar switch input through an internal pull-up resistor, then uses this input to control other vehicle's electronic functions and features. The BCM may also send electronic hood ajar switch status  messages to other electronic modules in the vehicle over the Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus.

The hood ajar switch, hardwired inputs, and outputs of the switch may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. Refer to the appropriate wiring information.