Will this hinge work with my factory hood latch?

Yes. This hinge is designed around OEM specifications and aligns with your factory latch without modification. If you're replacing a bent or worn hinge, the latch will seat properly once the new hinge is installed at the factory mounting points.

Do I need hood pins if I'm installing a new hinge?

Hood pins aren't required for normal operation. They're an add-on for security or if you're running at the strip. A healthy hinge holds the hood safely on its own.

How do I know if my hinge is actually bad?

A worn hinge shows itself through hood sag, poor alignment with the fenders, or difficulty latching. If your hood doesn't sit flush or requires extra force to close, the hinge is likely the culprit. Inspect for cracks or play in the pivot point before ordering.