A hood latch that doesn’t hold like it should is a serious problem. A loose or broken latch can leave your hood rattling, or worse, pop open while you’re driving. Even if it doesn’t get that far, a faulty latch puts extra strain on the hood and surrounding components, leading to more expensive repairs down the line.
Most hood latches wear out from years of use, rust, or damage to their springs and cables. Once that happens, the latch stops locking the hood tightly, and you’re left with a car that’s less safe than it should be. Swapping it out early is an easy way to avoid bigger headaches later.
Aftermarket replacement hood latches are as durable as their OE counterparts but they’re more affordable, which means you can get the same high quality while also saving money.
The 6 Best Hood Latch Brands
If you’re replacing your hood latch, you don’t want to gamble on quality. These six brands are the ones drivers turn to for dependable parts and fair pricing:
JC Whitney
JC Whitney’s been around since 1915. Their catalog covers just about every car on the road, and their hood latches fit right out of the box. They even offer CAPA-certified options for those who want that extra layer of assurance.
What You Get
- Price Range: $25 – $400
- Sold as single latches or kits with tie bars and hoods
- CAPA-certified options for certain models
- Compatible with a wide range of vehicles
- Easy DIY installation with factory-style fit
Our Score: 10/10
Replacement
Replacement is a favorite for drivers who want dependable parts without a hefty price tag. Their hood latches are designed to match OE specs, making installation easy and quick. They’re also backed by strong customer reviews and significant discounts.
Key Features
- Price Range: $5 – $780
- Extensive range for different car types
- Left-hand drive and engine-specific options
- High customer ratings
- Discounts up to 90%
Our Score: 9.5/10
Dorman
Dorman has built a reputation for producing high-quality aftermarket parts with OE-like fitment. Their hood latches are engineered for durability and come in multiple series, from everyday replacements to heavy-duty solutions.
Key Features
- Price Range: $10 – $120
- OE Solutions and HD Solutions series available
- Designed for direct fit and easy installation
- Strong focus on durability
- Trusted brand in the aftermarket space
Our Score: 9/10
Mopar
Mopar is the gold standard for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram owners. Their hood latches are OEM-grade, offering the same quality you’d get from the dealership but at competitive online prices.
Key Features
- Price Range: $20 – $150
- Exact fit for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram
- OEM-level quality and finish
- Long-lasting performance
- Backed by Mopar’s reputation
Our Score: 9/10
Crown
Crown specializes in parts for Jeep vehicles, making it a top pick for off-roaders. Their hood latches are built tough to handle rugged conditions while maintaining a factory fit.
Key Features
- Price Range: $10 – $40
- Perfect for Jeep models
- Rugged, off-road-ready construction
- Multiple latch types including lower latches
- Simple, direct-fit installation
Our Score: 8.5/10
Vaico
Vaico is a German brand known for precision engineering. Their hood latches are built to exact specifications, making them a smart choice for European vehicle owners who want dependable replacements.
Key Features
- Price Range: $20 – $140
- High-quality materials
- Designed for European vehicles
- Corrosion-resistant construction
- Excellent fit and longevity
Our Score: 8.5/10
Our Recommendation
We’d go with JC Whitney for most drivers. Their pricing is fair, their selection is broad, and they even offer CAPA-certified options if you want that added confidence. Whether you’re fixing your car at home or taking it to a shop, their parts make the process simple.
Looking for a Replacement Hood Latch?
Make sure to think about the following:
Application
Hood latches aren’t universal. Match the latch to your vehicle’s exact year, make, and model or you’ll risk misalignment that prevents the hood from locking properly.
Quality
Look for durable materials and good build quality. Mopar is a safe bet for OEM-level parts, while Crown is great if you need something tough enough for off-road use.
Cost
Aftermarket hood latches can run anywhere from $5 to over $700. Budget brands like Replacement offer excellent value, while OEM choices like Mopar cost more but match factory specs exactly.
Installation
Most hood latches are designed to bolt right in, but some kits include extras like cables or secondary latches. Brands like JC Whitney often bundle these parts, which can save you time.
Warranty
Even a simple part like a hood latch should come with coverage. Many aftermarket brands include a one-year warranty, while OEM brands like Mopar offer manufacturer-backed support.
Ready to replace that worn-out hood latch? Find the right fit for your car atCarParts.com, where you’ll get great prices, fast shipping, and a wide range of options. Don’t wait—secure your hood and drive with confidence today. Buy your high-quality replacement hood latches now.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
