Do I need hood pins for this carbon fiber hood?

Yes, hood pins are required for installation. They secure the lightweight panel and prevent flutter at highway speeds. Verify your existing latch and hinge condition before install — factory hardware should work with this OEM-profile hood.

How does carbon fiber hood weight compare to the factory steel hood?

Carbon fiber is significantly lighter than OEM steel, which improves front-end weight distribution and reduces rotational mass during acceleration and braking. The exact weight difference depends on your current setup, but the performance gain is measurable.

What finish does this hood have, and what prep is needed before paint?

The hood comes with a clear protective coat. Before painting, sand and prep the surface per your chosen paint system's requirements. A clear coat is recommended after paint to protect the carbon weave and maintain the finish long-term.