How do I Troubleshoot a Convertible BMW Hood?

1. Hit the hood release buttom; this is generally located to the left of the steering wheel on the dash but may be in a different location depending upon the model of BMW and model year. If the hood latch is engaging properly you will hear a clunk and a pop as the latch disengages the hood's U-attachment point. If the hood does not pop up then there may be a problem with either the wiring or the latch.
2. Use a flathead screwdriver to manually release the hood latch if it is broken. The latch mechanism is located in the center front of the hoodline. Use a prybar to gently prop the hood up until the latch won't budge anymore, but do not force anything. Then use a flathead screwdriver to push the latch claw out of the U-attachment. If the swing arms are broken you may need to use significant force to raise the hood up.
3. Prop the hood up with the hood prop; if it is missing then use a wooden stick. Examine the swing arms located at the rear corners of the hood for damage or distortion. If you compare the arms to each other, they should be perfect mirror images of each other. If they are in alignment then so will be the hood gaps between the hood panel and the front body panels.
4. Close the hood. The weight of the hood should close and engage the hood latch by itself. If it does not then you will need to lower the hood by hand, but do it carefully, as the weight is enough to break fingers.