Chat with us, powered by LiveChat Replacing Your Jeep Hood Hold Downs | Quadratec Skip to main content
Reference

by Eric Ammerman
Quadratec Channel Staff Writer


Since the very first Jeep Wrangler or CJ model, the hood has been secured with a set of externally-mounted hood catches.

In the early years, this meant mechanical latches. And while these items have provided years of trouble-free service for many Jeep owners, father time is starting to catch up and you’ll find many now that are starting to rust or otherwise are not working as they should. That is understandable since the newest Jeep with this style latch is 24-years-old at this point. Luckily there are a few options for replacing your CJ or YJ hood latches.

If you want to keep the classic styling of the original equipment latches, you can choose from black or chrome steel, or for a bit of an upgrade, the Kentrol Stainless Steel Hood Latches in either black or polished.

If you would rather update that hood latch to a slightly newer version, the TJ style hood latches made specifically for the CJ and YJ will give your Jeep a late 90's look.

In 1997, Jeep changed its hood latch design from the mechanical style to one using a thick rubber strap to keep tension on the hood. This is the style Jeep has now used all the way to the 2018 JK version, and is a system that has worked well for a while. But as is the nature of rubber, the elements take their toll on elasticity and over time your hood will begin to flutter at highway speeds. This could very well be the reason you are reading this article.

Now, you can replace those worn out factory hood latches with the same rubber factory version if you want, or even replace just the rubber straps with a polyurethane version for just a couple bucks, but when I went to replace the hood latches on my 2016 Wrangler, I decided it was a good time to change up to some Kentrol Mechanical Style Hood Latches. They install easily with simple hand tools, and you can adjust them to make sure your hood stays exactly where it should. Made from a black powdercoated 304 stainless steel, they will very likely outlast your Jeep.

Also, if you are looking for a little more security for the engine compartment, you can replace your worn hood catches with some locking hood latches such as the Rampage Locking Hood Catch Set in Black. These will help protect any valuables under the hood like your battery, air intakes, snorkel components, etc.

Once you pick out the direction you want to go with these replacement parts, you'll definitely be much happier with that hood now staying in place.

Top Jeep Articles

  • September 11, 2025
  • 6 min read
Five Jeep Shock Upgrades Every Owner Should Know About
Discover the best shocks to transform your Jeep Wrangler’s ride. From budget-friendly upgrades to premium performance options, here are five top picks Jeep owners trust.
READ MORE
  • September 9, 2025
  • 7 min read
How To Keep Your Soft Top Windows Safe
Removable soft top side and rear windows are a great option for those nice days. When you do, here is how to keep them from getting damaged.
READ MORE
  • September 5, 2025
  • 4 min read
Seven Slot Dispatch 9.5.2025
Weekly Jeep-related news items from around the industry and community.
READ MORE
  • September 3, 2025
  • 6 min read
Top Overlanding Questions Answered: Building Your Adventure, Your Way
Overlanding blends off-road travel, self-reliance, and adventure. Learn the essentials to make your Jeep ready for the journey.
READ MORE
  • September 2, 2025
  • 4 min read
What Is Jeep’s Off-Road Plus Mode and When Should You Use It?
Learn how Off-Road Plus fine-tunes your Jeep’s traction, throttle, and transmission for maximum control on sand, rocks, and rough trails.
READ MORE
  • August 29, 2025
  • 4 min read
Seven Slot Dispatch 8.29.2025
Weekly Jeep-related news items from around the industry and community.
READ MORE
  • August 26, 2025
  • 4 min read
Spare Tire Delete: The Pros and Cons for Your Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator
Ditching the rear spare is more than just a look—it’s about performance, practicality, and personal preference.
READ MORE
  • August 25, 2025
  • 3 min read
Day Five at the Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion: The Jeep Spirit Takes Over Pigeon Forge
From the Great Smoky Mountain Parkway parade to late-night parking lot meetups, Jeep life spills beyond the LeConte Center and into the heart of town.
READ MORE