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2014 W212 E350
Over this past winter, animals nested in my engine area. I've been cleaning out ever since. I've gotten everything except the acorns stuck in my hood.
I've removed the thermal insulation and vacuumed as much as possible but the acorns are in places that cant be reached inside the hood.
So, I need to actually remove the car hood from the car so i can flip it upside down/sideways/etc to let the acorns fall out.
I'm looking to confirm these instructions I got off AI and hoping someone can link a video of removal so I can be sure I'm not messing anything up.
This is what I got off AI: If anyone can confirm they are correct that would be awesome. TYIA
Spoiler
To remove the hood of a W212 Mercedes-Benz, you'll need to work with the hood hinges and potentially some other components. Here's a general guide:
Open the Hood and Support It:
Locate the hood release lever inside the car (usually on the driver's side under the dashboard) and pull it to unlatch the hood.
Find the secondary safety latch under the front edge of the hood, above the Mercedes-Benz logo. Release it to fully open the hood.
Use a prop rod, if available, or a sturdy stick to keep the hood securely open, taking the weight off the struts. If the W212 uses hood struts, ensure they are in the service position if possible.
Disconnect Washer Nozzles (If Present):
If your W212 has windshield washer nozzles integrated into the hood, you may need to disconnect the washer fluid lines and potentially electrical connectors if the nozzles are heated.
Prepare for Hinge Disconnection:
It's highly recommended to have a helper for this step, as the hood can be bulky and awkward to handle alone.
To aid in reassembly and alignment, mark the position of the hinges relative to the hood before removing the bolts. You can use a marker or even drill small alignment holes (as suggested for another model but applicable here).
Remove the Hood Hinges:
Locate the bolts securing the hinges to the hood.
Carefully remove these bolts, leaving at least one bolt on each hinge initially for support.
Have your helper assist in supporting the hood's weight as you remove the remaining bolts, guiding the hood down onto blankets or protective padding placed on the fenders.
Once all the bolts are removed, the hood can be lifted off and away from the car.
Reinstallation:
Reinstallation is the reverse of removal. Align the hinges with the markings or alignment holes you made.
Secure the hinges to the hood with the bolts, but do not fully tighten them yet.
Reconnect any washer nozzle lines or electrical connectors.
Carefully lower the hood and check for proper alignment and gap spacing. Adjust the hinges as needed before fully tightening the bolts.
