Do I need hood pins for this panel?

Yes, hood pins are required for secure mounting. Stock latches alone are not sufficient. Plan to source pins that match your latch hole spacing and secure the panel during driving and at rest.

Will this panel work with my OEM latch and hinge?

This hood maintains factory-profile geometry and mounts to your existing hinge points. Confirm that your current latch hardware is in good condition — worn factory latches may not hold a new panel securely. If latches are worn, refresh them before install.

What finish should I apply to the raw carbon?

Sand the surface lightly and apply a quality clear coat to protect the weave and lock in the finish. A good clear coat resists UV fade and weather while maintaining the carbon's visual depth. Work with a professional or experienced DIY finisher to avoid blotchy coverage.