Ever since I got my car I have wondered what this rear hood latch thing is....is it functional in any way? Why is it there?

 

It keeps the hood from decapitating you in the event of a crash. The hood can't slam back through the windshield if it gets pushed back in a crash. I would leave the latches there.

thesaint

 

I guess the latches are just reinforcements besides the hinge to protect the occupant in a crash like Saint said. Not sure if all cars have the same design but I wouldn't be surpised if this is RX7 specific due to the alum hood that is low also.

 

The latches are VERY effective in an accident. Every picture I have of a strong front end accident, the latches have ALWAYS stopped the hood from going through the windshield.

 

Less gallons of blood the paramedics have to soak up from the floorboard looking for the victims head.

 

Yeah


I HATE it when that happens

 

Thanks guys....I guess I never thought of that!
Now I wonder if the aftermarket hoods have these latch provisions.....I guess a fiberglass or carbon-fiber hood would likely disintergrate rather than push thru the windshield.....

 

When you replace your hood, you don't replace those anyway.

 

What would happen if you were in a front end crash wit fiberglass or cf?? Would it just disintergrate?? Anyone know??

 

It wouldnt be strong enough to cut through the a-pillars and decapitate you. I have seen quite a few front end collisions and the CF/ FG hoods have just snapped in half/crumbled as it hit the a-pillar.

But don't remove those latches on your stock hood.

thesaint