News & Advice

The time it takes to complete a new paint job on a car can vary significantly based on several factors, including the extent of the prep work required, the complexity of the job, the type of paint used, and the specific processes of the paint shop.

Here’s a general breakdown of how long it takes to get a new paint job…

Basic Paint Job

• Duration – 3 to 5 days
• Details – This includes minimal prep work, such as a light sanding of the existing paint surface, and then applying a new coat of paint. It’s the quickest option but may not address deeper scratches, dents, or rust.

Standard Paint Job

• Duration – 1 to 2 weeks
• Details – More thorough than a basic job, this involves more extensive sanding, repairing minor scratches and dents, and possibly removing rust. Multiple layers of paint and a protective clear coat are applied.

Custom or High-Quality Paint Job

• Duration – 2 to 4 weeks or more
• Details – This includes all the prep work of a standard paint job, plus additional steps for a high-quality finish. It may involve disassembling parts of the car to paint them separately, using specialized paints, and applying multiple layers of clear coat. Custom designs or colors can extend the time further.

Factors Affecting Duration

• Preparation Work – The amount of prep work (sanding, dent repair, rust removal) is the biggest factor in how long a paint job will take. A car with a lot of body damage or rust will require more time.
• Paint Type and Application – High-quality paint jobs often use multiple layers of paint and clear coat, each requiring proper drying or curing time.
• Shop Workload – The paint shop’s schedule and workload can also affect how quickly they can start and complete your job.
• Weather Conditions – For paints that are sensitive to humidity and temperature, weather can play a role in drying times and overall project duration.

Additional Considerations

• Quality vs. Speed – Rushing a paint job can lead to poor quality work. Good paint shops will take the necessary time to ensure a high-quality finish.
• Vehicle Size – Larger vehicles take longer to paint than smaller ones due to the greater surface area.
• Custom Work – Any custom designs, stripes, or specialty finishes will add time to the paint job.

When getting a car painted, discuss the timeline with the service provider beforehand. They can give you a more accurate estimate based on your car’s condition, the type of paint job you’re getting, and their current workload. A high-quality paint job is often worth the wait, providing better durability and appearance in the long run.