Dodge 2009 Dakota Owner's Manual page 124

122 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE
2. Then push the safety latch lever up while lifting the
grille with your hand. It is located at the bottom center of
the grille.
Secondary Latch Location
Lift the hood, and the gas filled props will hold it open.
To prevent possible damage, do not slam the hood to
close it. Use a firm downward push at the center front
edge of the hood to ensure that both latches engage.
Never drive your vehicle unless the hood is fully closed,
with both latches engaged.
WARNING!
If the hood is not fully latched, it could fly up when
the vehicle is moving and block your forward vision.
Be sure all hood latches are fully latched before
driving.