Replacing a car's interior roof, known as the headliner, is a challenging but achievable DIY project for those comfortable with detailed interior work. The core process involves carefully removing trim panels, sun visors, and dome lights to detach the old, sagging fabric, cleaning the underlying fiberboard substrate, and then applying new headliner fabric and adhesive. Success hinges on patience, a methodical approach, and using the right materials—specifically high-temperature headliner adhesive and a quality fabric.
The first and most critical step is dismantling the interior trim. You'll need a set of plastic trim removal tools to avoid scratching your car's plastics. Start by gently prying off the A-pillar, B-pillar, and C-pillar trim covers. Next, remove the sun visors, coat hooks, and the dome light assembly. Often, these are held in by hidden screws behind small plastic caps. Keep a bag handy for all the screws and clips. Once all obstructions are cleared, the old headliner board can be carefully maneuvered out of the car, usually through a rear door. It's large and fragile, so bend it as little as possible.
With the board out, peel off the old, sagging fabric. This can be messy. Use a scraper and a stiff brush to remove all the old foam and adhesive from the fiberboard until you have a clean, smooth surface. This is vital for the new adhesive to bond properly. Lay your new fabric (suede, vinyl, or a stock replacement) face-down on a clean surface, then place the headliner board on top. Spray both the board and the back of the fabric with a high-temperature headliner adhesive, following the can's directions for tack-up time. Starting from the center, carefully smooth the fabric outward to the edges, working out any wrinkles as you go. Trim the excess fabric from the openings for visors and lights. Once the adhesive is fully cured, reinstall the board and all the trim pieces in reverse order.
| Key Consideration | Details & Common Pitfalls |
|---|
| Time Commitment | 4-8 hours for a first-time attempt; plan for a full weekend. |
| Adhesive Type | 3M Super 77 is a common choice, but high-temperature specific headliner adhesive is more reliable in hot climates. |
| Fabric Choice | Standard fabric is fine; suede or microfiber adds a premium look but is harder to work with. |
| Biggest Challenge | Removing and reinstalling the headliner board without cracking it, especially in sedans. |
| Cost (DIY) | $80 - $200 for fabric, adhesive, and tools, versus $400 - $800+ for professional installation. |
