Build Time Guide: Realistic Install Times for Car Mods
If you’ve ever Googled "how long does it take to install a custom exhaust" or "body kit install time", you know the answers are all over the place. Some sites say an hour, others claim a whole day. The truth sits somewhere in the middle, and it depends on a handful of real factors. This guide breaks down the most common upgrades, gives you ball‑park numbers, and shares simple tricks to shave minutes—or even hours—off your project.
Typical Times for Common Upgrades
Custom exhaust install: Most DIYers finish in 2‑3 hours if the car is on a lift and you have the right tools. A shop will usually take 1‑2 hours, but add time for test runs and bolt‑tightening checks. Expect up to 4 hours if you need to cut or weld sections.
Body kit fitting: A full kit (front bumper, side skirts, rear diffuser) can take 6‑10 hours for a seasoned pro. For a weekend warrior, plan a full day plus a few extra hours for alignment and paint prep. Smaller pieces like a front lip often finish in 1‑2 hours.
Wheel spacers: Installing a set of spacers on all four corners is quick—about 30‑45 minutes if you have a torque wrench and the wheels are already off the hub. The real time sink is the post‑install safety check, which adds another 15 minutes.
LED headlight conversion: Swapping halogen bulbs for LED units usually takes 20‑40 minutes per side. Older car headlight housings may need minor modifications, pushing the total toward an hour.
Lowering springs: Dropping the ride height with a set of springs is a 2‑hour job for most cars. You’ll need to compress the springs, remove the old ones, and re‑torque all suspension bolts. If you keep the stock shocks, add another hour for alignment.
How to Cut Down Your Build Time
1. Prep before you start. Gather every bolt, wrench, and gasket you’ll need. Having a printed checklist on the floor saves you from hunting tools midway.
2. Use the right lift. A good 2‑post or 4‑post lift lets you work at waist height, which speeds up bolt removal and reduces fatigue.
3. Mark everything. Snap a quick photo of the original layout, or use masking tape to label bolt positions. When you re‑assemble, you won’t waste time guessing.
4. Torque in stages. For big jobs like exhausts or body kits, tighten bolts in a criss‑cross pattern to the final spec. This prevents you from having to undo and redo fasteners later.
5. Don’t skip the test run. A short engine rev after each major step catches issues early, saving you an hour of re‑work later.
6. Watch the clock, but stay safe. Rushing can cause stripped bolts or missed safety checks. Set a realistic timer, take a short break, then finish strong.
Remember, every car is a little different. The numbers above are averages, not guarantees. By planning ahead, using proper tools, and following a step‑by‑step checklist, you’ll get a more accurate build time and finish your mod with confidence.
