How long does a full colour change take?

The inspection and planning stage

Before film is ordered or fitted, the vehicle should be checked for chips, peeling paint, corrosion, repairs, dents, contamination and loose trims. The scope should state whether door shuts, handles, badges and selected recesses are included. Colour samples and finish decisions also need time. If the vehicle is a fleet asset, artwork approval and placement rules should be settled before it reaches installation.

• Document condition and agree exclusions before booking.
• Confirm finish, colour availability and edge strategy.
• Plan transport and substitute vehicles around a realistic window.

Preparation and disassembly

A clean, stable panel is essential. Washing, decontamination and suitable preparation can take longer when road film or old residue is present. Handles, badges, trims and lights may need careful removal or masking, depending on the finish and edge plan. Previous repairs can require additional discussion. Rushing this stage can compromise edges and joins, so the schedule should include preparation rather than treating it as an afterthought.

• Inspect trim clips and panel alignment before removal.
• Resolve unstable paint before applying film.
• Allow extra time for complex curves and recesses.

Installation and quality checks

Full-body work involves positioning and finishing many panels, with attention to tension, corners, returns and visible joins. A satin or matte finish may make inconsistent preparation especially obvious, while metallic material needs consistent orientation. After installation, controlled lighting helps reveal contamination, lifting edges and alignment issues. Collection should occur only after the agreed checks and early-care guidance are complete.

• Review edges, badges and panel returns under workshop lighting.
• Follow collection, rain and washing instructions.
• Report a concern promptly rather than pulling at an edge.

Keeping downtime practical

For a private car, a realistic schedule is easier to manage when the vehicle can remain available for the whole agreed period. For a fleet, staging vehicles in batches can protect operations and keep presentation consistent. Scope changes, repair findings and weather or workshop scheduling can move the date, so confirm updates rather than relying on an optimistic promise. Good preparation generally saves rework and produces a more dependable result.