Is the release handle performing as it normally should (except for the fact it won't open)You could try and push down on the hood as you use the release.Is the release opening it somewhat but not enough to unlatch it? If so it is not fully depressing the little rod on the latch to "pop" the hood.If so you may need to reach in there and manually push the rod down to open here up and then do some readjustments.I removed my lever to make it very hard for someone other than myself to get quickly into the engine bay.

David