Do I need hood pins for installation?

Yes. Hood pins are required for proper fitment and security. They lock the panel in place and prevent vibration or lift at highway speeds. Source pins separately to match your preferred finish.

How does real carbon fiber compare to fiberglass or composite hoods?

Real carbon fiber delivers superior strength-to-weight ratio and authentic visual texture. The weave pattern is permanent, not painted or wrapped. You're getting structural material that looks as good as it performs.

What prep work should I do before installation?

Inspect the hood sealing surface and sand any rough edges. Clean thoroughly with a mild detergent and dry completely. If you need to modify mounting points or hinge alignment for your specific setup, use a drill press and test-fit before final fastening.