Will this hood work with my factory latch and hinges?

Yes. This is designed as a direct bolt-on replacement using OEM mounting points. No modification to latch or hinge hardware is necessary — your existing components will function without change.

How much lighter is carbon fiber compared to the factory hood?

Carbon fiber is significantly lighter than OEM steel, which improves front-end weight distribution and overall handling. The real difference shows in acceleration and braking feel over time.

What prep work does the surface need before I finish it?

The clear coat is applied from the factory. If you want a custom paint finish, sand and prep the surface per your chosen paint system's requirements before applying primer and color. The weave is sealed underneath, so you're working on top of a stable base.