Do I need hood pins with this carbon fiber hood?

Yes, hood pins are required for this hood. Even though it's significantly lighter than OEM steel, pins prevent hood flutter at highway speeds and secure the panel during hard acceleration or braking. Install them on both the driver and passenger sides for balanced support.

Will this hood work with my factory latch and hinges?

Yes. This hood uses the factory latch mechanism and bolt directly to the OEM hinges. No modifications to the hinge or latch assembly are needed—it's a direct bolt-on replacement that maintains full factory functionality.

What should I do to prepare the hood before mounting it?

Sand and prep the underside and hood surface where fasteners and seals will contact the hinges and frame. A light scuff with fine-grit sandpaper ensures clean contact. If you plan to apply a clear coat for additional UV protection, do that before final installation.