Installing a carbon fiber hood is one of the most rewarding mods you can do on a Nissan 370Z or Infiniti G37. It dramatically changes the look of the front end, reduces weight, and feels satisfying every time you open the hood. This guide walks you through the full process.
What You Will Need
- 10mm and 12mm socket wrench
- Torque wrench
- Paint marker or masking tape
- A second person to help lift
- Carbon fiber UV sealant or ceramic coating (recommended)
Step 1 — Prepare the Work Area
Park on a flat surface. Open the factory hood and support it with the prop rod. Clear any wiper fluid lines or hood struts connected to the hood — some G37 models have washer nozzles built into the hood that will need to be unplugged.
Step 2 — Mark Your Hinge Positions
Before unbolting anything, use a paint marker or tape to mark the exact position of the hinge bolts on the factory hood. This gives you a reference point for aligning the new carbon fiber hood and saves a lot of adjustment time later.
Step 3 — Remove the Factory Hood
With your helper supporting the hood, unbolt the hinge bolts (typically 12mm) — there are two bolts per hinge, four total. Keep all hardware as you will reuse it. Carefully lift the factory hood off and set it aside on a padded surface.
Step 4 — Test Fit the Carbon Fiber Hood
Before fully bolting down the new hood, place it on the hinges and check the gaps on both sides against the fenders and at the cowl. The carbon fiber hood should sit flush and even. Do not fully tighten any bolts until you are happy with the alignment.
Step 5 — Adjust and Torque
Once the gaps look even, torque all hinge bolts to factory specification. Reconnect any washer nozzles or wiring you disconnected. Check that the hood latch engages cleanly and the hood sits flat when closed.
Step 6 — Protect the Carbon Fiber
Carbon fiber is UV-sensitive and can yellow or delaminate over time without protection. Apply a carbon fiber UV sealant or a ceramic coating immediately after installation. Reapply every 6–12 months depending on your climate.
Tips
- Do this on a calm day — wind makes hood installs much harder
- Have your helper present for the entire swap, not just the lift
- Check hood alignment after the first few drives — bolts can settle
- Vented hoods may require hood pins for high-speed driving
Shop Carbon Fiber Hoods
MyVQParts carries fitment-tested carbon fiber hoods for the Infiniti G37 and Nissan 370Z. Questions? Email support@myvqparts.com.
