I searched and but I am not sure if I need a cable replacement yet.

When I pull the lever the hood doesn't move in anyway, I have to pry it up with a bit of effort.

Today maybe it's the heat from sitting in the sun, I was not able to "pry" the hood open at all. I press down on the hood and it doesn't click either. Lever has no tension once I opened it, just that the hood doesn't pop go up.

After panicking for a while I was able to pry it up, maybe just required alot of effort, then I was able to reach the actual saftey paddle thing and open the hood all the way.

Anyway, is there anyway have the hood crack open by itself when I pull the latch lever? (you know, like a normal car )

 

Has the car been in an accident or has the hood been off for any reason? My bet it has. If not, I would buy a used cable and locking latch. The latch might be rusted and not allowing the hood to open correctly. WD40 or something equivalent might work.

 

No I know the front bumper has been off for respray but the hood bolts hasn't been wrenched on

I just used a silicone polish liquid let it seep in, a very slippery fluid because I'm not sure wd40 will gum up..
I wiped the seals and the striker down to eliminate any sticking

Without removing anything that's all I could do without making a mess with lube

The hood now cracks open 1/4 inch like it should.

The previous owner does not pop the hood much.

 

Well good. Glad it worked for you. Just keep it lubed and an eye on it.

 

Yeah, lubing usually works for me. I had the hood latch that wasn't functioning properly. It wouldn't close all the way, and so I soaked the lever assembly with WD-40. Now it works perfectly.