Do I need hood pins to install this?

Yes, hood pins are required for safe installation. Factory latches alone are not sufficient to secure a carbon fiber hood; pins provide essential support and prevent hood flex during driving.

Will the ram air scoop actually cool my engine?

The scoop is designed for visual impact and ram air styling. For functional cooling benefits, verify that your vehicle's intake system is configured to draw from the scoop opening and that your engine bay airflow design supports it. Consult your vehicle's intake routing before assuming functional benefit.

What finish prep should I do before painting?

Sand and prep the surface thoroughly before applying your chosen primer and paint system. Carbon fiber requires proper surface preparation to ensure paint adhesion and longevity. A clear coat topcoat is recommended to protect the finish and the carbon weave underneath.