Do I need hood pins for this carbon fiber hood?

Yes, hood pins are required for installation. This panel is designed to work with a pin-and-latch setup that secures the hood at both the front corners. Verify your vehicle has the OEM latch and hinge points before ordering.

Will the carbon weave pattern be visible, or should I paint this?

The clear coat finish shows the carbon weave pattern as part of the design. If you prefer a painted finish, sand and prep the surface with appropriate grit before applying your chosen paint system. The carbon base accepts both clear-coat and paint finishes.

How much lighter is this than the factory hood?

Carbon fiber is significantly lighter than OEM steel, which reduces unsprung weight and improves handling dynamics. For exact weight specifications, reference the technical datasheet or compare against your vehicle's factory hood weight directly.