OWNER ANSWER
Original SEAL: open and close the bonnet correctly
Pull the bonnet-release handle twice to release the original SEAL bonnet. Closing uses two stages: lower it to the half-latched position, then press slowly with both hands at the two areas marked in the handbook. Do not slam it or press its front edge.
Original SEAL RHD EN-250305; not the 2026 facelift. Controls and equipment must match your car.
- Find the release handle on the left beneath the dashboard and pull it twice. The bonnet should pop up. Safety note: Keep hands clear of closing edges and do not drive until the bonnet is securely latched.
- Raise the bonnet to a suitable height; the handbook describes it continuing upwards automatically. If it resists, stop and recheck release rather than pulling harder.
- To close, lower the bonnet and give it a slight push to reach the half-latched position.
- Use the two blue-marked hand positions in the official closing diagram linked below. They are spaced either side of the centre, behind the leading edge. Press slowly with both hands, avoiding the ridges and front edge.
- Check that the bonnet is fully closed and securely latched before moving the car.
See the official SEAL bonnet-closing hand positions, PDF page 181 (BYD UK). Match the blue areas before pressing.
What success looks like
The bonnet is fully seated and the latch holds it closed. A half-latched bonnet is an intermediate closing position, not a finished result.
If that did not work
If two pulls do not release it, or the illustrated two-handed closing method does not latch it, stop applying force. Ask BYD to check the release mechanism and latch alignment, explaining whether it fails to release, stops half-latched or remains visibly uneven. A photo of the resting position can help. Do not adjust the rubber buffers or latch to compensate without a verified repair procedure.
Useful next steps
BYD Original SEAL RHD EN-250305; not the 2026 facelift handbook, PDF pages 180, 181. Checked 13 November 2026.
Open source (BYD UK)