Do I need hood pins for this hood?

Yes, hood pins are required. They secure the carbon fiber panel to your hinges and prevent hood lift at speed. Install them at the factory latch points on your vehicle's core support.

How does carbon fiber weight compare to the original hood?

Carbon fiber is significantly lighter than OEM steel, reducing the load on your hood hinges and improving front-end weight distribution. The exact weight savings depends on your vehicle's original panel, but the difference is noticeable in both handling and acceleration metrics.

Should I apply clear coat to protect the carbon finish?

Clear coat is recommended. It protects the weave from UV exposure and environmental contaminants while preserving the natural twill pattern. Sand the hood lightly before application to ensure proper adhesion.