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2016–2022 Lexus RX

2016-2022 Lexus RX — Open the Hood

By Tom Becker ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 23, 2026

🔧 Easy 15 minutes $0 DIY 1 views

Quick answer: Open the Hood on a 2016–2022 Lexus RX is rated Easy and takes about 15 minutes. You'll need 5 tools for this job. This guide walks you through the full job step by step.

Quick Video Tutorial

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully

1

Park and prepare

Park on level ground, shift to Park, and set the parking brake on the 2016-2022 Lexus RX 350 Base. Keep the key/fob with you so you can restart after under-hood work if needed.

2

Pull the interior hood release

On the 2016-2022 Lexus RX 350 Base: pull the hood release lever at the lower left of the driver footwell (near the kick panel). You should hear the hood pop up slightly at the front.

3

Release the secondary safety latch

On the 2016-2022 Lexus RX 350 Base: stand at the front of the vehicle, slide your hand under the center of the hood, and move the secondary safety latch (usually leftward or upward) while lifting.

4

Raise and prop the hood

On the 2016-2022 Lexus RX 350 Base: lift the hood fully. If equipped with a prop rod, insert it into the designated hole; if gas struts support it, confirm both sides hold before leaning over the engine bay.

5

Close and verify the latch

On the 2016-2022 Lexus RX 350 Base: remove the prop rod if used, lower the hood to about 12 inches (30 cm) above the latch, and drop it to engage.

All Done!

Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.