How much does a hood weigh for a car?
Hood weights vary widely, but most passenger-car hoods fall roughly in the 15–60 pounds (7–27 kilograms) range depending on material and size. Steel hoods are typically heavier, while aluminum and carbon fiber versions are lighter.
In practice, the exact weight depends on the vehicle’s design, the hood’s thickness, presence of insulation or sound-deadening material, and the hardware used (hinges, latch, supports). Automotive makers and aftermarket suppliers offer a range of options to balance strength, safety, and weight. Carbon fiber and fiberglass hoods are common choices for weight-conscious enthusiasts, while steel remains common on many mainstream models.
Common hood materials and weight ranges
The following ranges cover typical options seen on new cars and popular aftermarket variants.
- Steel OEM hood: 25–60 lb (11–27 kg)
- Aluminum hood: 15–30 lb (7–14 kg)
- Carbon fiber hood: 7–15 lb (3–7 kg)
- Fiberglass hood: 15–25 lb (7–11 kg)
- Hybrid/composite or reinforced hoods: 20–35 lb (9–16 kg)
The weight ranges above reflect typical designs and do not account for added insulation, heat shields, or decorative/functional features such as vents or scoops, which can increase weight.
Other factors that affect hood weight and performance
Beyond material, several design choices and hardware affect the hood’s total weight and how it behaves in use.
- Size and geometry of the hood (larger or more complex shapes weigh more)
- Material thickness and the level of reinforcement or bracing
- Insulation, sound-deadening material, and weatherstripping
- Hinge, latch, and support hardware (including gas struts or springs)
- Ventilation features (vents, scoops, or louvers) that can add weight
- Aftermarket modifications or replacements designed for weight reduction or added strength
Weight considerations influence not only performance and handling but also crash safety, alignment with the hood and engine bay, and warranty or safety approvals. Enthusiasts who pursue lighter hoods should verify compatibility with their vehicle’s safety ratings and regulations.
Design trade-offs and practical examples
For example, a carbon fiber hood can dramatically reduce front-end weight, potentially improving acceleration and steering response, but may require careful matching with latching hardware and firewall clearance. A steel OEM hood offers durability and proven crash performance but adds weight, which some drivers weigh against fuel economy and weight distribution. Insulation and shields, while quieter and more heat-resistant, add measurable heft.
Summary
In short, hood weights span a broad spectrum. Typical steel hoods weigh roughly 25–60 lb (11–27 kg), aluminum hoods around 15–30 lb (7–14 kg), and carbon fiber hoods commonly fall in the 7–15 lb (3–7 kg) range. Fiberglass and hybrid options sit between these values, depending on construction. The exact weight for any given hood depends on material, thickness, added features, and hardware. When replacing a hood, consider not just weight, but safety, fitment, and how changes will affect overall vehicle dynamics.
Summary note: For most everyday driving needs, the choice is a balance between weight reduction, strength, safety, and cost. If you’re chasing performance gains, lighter materials offer benefits, but ensure they meet your vehicle’s design specifications and regulatory requirements.
How do you lift a car hood?
Another dad tip from Dwayne. If you're a new driver how do I open my hood a lot of people don't know how to open their hood. Simple but not so simple. So it's always going to be on this pillar.
How much does a carbon hood weigh?
Average Weight Savings for Each Part
| Part | Stock Weight (lbs) | Carbon Fiber Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hood | 24 (Aluminum) | ≤ 15 |
| Trunk Lid | 33 (Steel) | 15 - 21 |
How much does a Mustang hood weigh?
Anderson Composites 2024 Ford Mustang S650 Carbon Fiber Type-OE Double-Sided Hood. *Hoods are hand crafted and weigh approximately 28 lbs. (stock hood weighs 42 lbs.)
How much does a truck hood weigh?
Example of a semi truck hood:
This is a decent-sized hood that will require some work to lift high. Most Peterbilt hoods will weigh around 400lbs+. While you might want to do the hood removal yourself, it is not recommended to do so and, in many cases, will not be physically possible without the use of other machinery.
