Opening the bonnet

[Hendrix55]

We have a very old Vauxhall Cavalier and the bonnet release lever is not working...something has propbably rusted or rotted.  Is there any way of opening the bonnet without this lever (other than pick-axe)?

[v64paul]

you dontsay how old, but can you prise off the radiator grille and get to the catch from the underneath of the slam panel? it's a case of looking up from underneath with a torch between the radiator and the front of the car to check out your options.

[Hendrix55]

Aah! Thanks - may try that. It is G-reg so 1989. It looks awful and isn't worth anything really, so not worried about damaging the finish as long as it all holds together...

[BillyBB]

The lever pulls on a wire something like bicycle brake cable. If you can get to the inner wire near the lever or next to the catch and pull it a little further this may release the bonnet. Getting somebody to bounce the bonnet at the same time will help.