Why are hood pins required?

Carbon fiber hoods are lighter than OEM steel, so factory latch systems alone may not secure the panel reliably at highway speeds. Hood pins provide the additional retention your vehicle needs for safe operation. They're a standard safety requirement for this type of upgrade.

Does this hood seal against rain and debris the same way as the original?

Yes. The hood gasket channel and latch area are designed to match OEM dimensions, so weather sealing performs identically to factory. Verify that your hood latch and hinges are in good condition before installation to ensure proper alignment and closure.

Can I use this hood with the factory hinge and latch?

Yes, this hood is engineered to mount on the stock hinge and latch assembly without drilling or modification. Check that both hinges operate smoothly and that the latch engages fully before fastening the hood pins. If hinges are worn or sticky, service them first for optimal fit.