Even if your car is running like a dream, a sagging roof lining can give it a tired air of neglect and make your car seem old before its time. But if the damage isn’t bad, fixing your car’s roof lining isn’t complex. With a bit of patience and the right tools your car can look brand new again.
What Is a Car Roof Lining?
The roof lining – or headliner, as it’s also known – is the soft fabric that covers the interior roof of your car. Roof linings are there to keep your car insulated, reduce road noise, and add style.
Over time, the headliner material can start to sag or peel at the edges as age, general wear, or temperature changes take their toll. And a sagging headliner can make your car look older than it is.
What Causes the Roof Lining to Sag?
A sagging roof lining doesn’t happen overnight, but if you spot your car ceiling looking a bit droopier than usual, there are usually a few culprits.
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Heat and humidity: Australia’s sunny days, extreme temperatures, and high humidity can weaken the adhesive
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Ageing adhesive: As your car gets older, the glue or adhesive might start breaking down
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Water damage: Leaky windows or sunroofs can cause the fabric to detach from the roof
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Weight: The sheer weight of the lining material can pull it down, especially if the adhesive is old
How to Prevent My Roof Lining From Sagging?
While you can’t entirely avoid wear and tear, you can prolong the life of your car roof lining:
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Keep it cool: Use window shades when parking in the sun or, better yet, leave your car in a garage or under a shady tree
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Don’t let water linger: Tend to any moisture around your windows or sunroof ASAP to prevent water damage
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Clean regularly: Gently clean your roof lining to remove dirt and grime that can weaken the adhesive – this will also keep it looking newer for longer!
Can I Fix My Car’s Roof Lining Myself? Three Methods
Fixing your saggy roof lining is doable with a little DIY spirit.
Whether you want a lasting repair or a quick fix, here are three simple methods to repair your car roof lining and return it to its former glory:
1. Glue With Self-Adhesive Spray
Using glue for your car roof lining is one of the most straightforward fixes. You’ll need self-adhesive spray (specifically designed for fabric or car headliners), a cloth, and a clean surface.
Spray a light, even layer of adhesive on the roof and the fabric. Press the fabric into place to make sure there are no air bubbles or wrinkles and let it set.
It’s a good idea to keep the car doors open when you’re done to let the air circulate and speed up the drying process.
2. Secure With Double-Sided Tape
While not as long-term as glue, double-sided tape is a quick way to fix your car roof lining. You’ll need strong tape.
Cut the tape into small strips. Apply it to the sagging fabric and, as with the glue, press the fabric into place so it sticks properly.
This car headliner repair method works best for smaller sections of the roof lining that come loose, especially around the edges.
3. Quickly Fix With Pins
You can use pins if you need a temporary car roof lining repair before you get hold of double-sided tape or adhesive glue.
You’ll need small upholstery pins – and it’s a good idea to go for ones that match the interior of your car to make your quick and easy fix less noticeable.
Simply pin the fabric back into place.
How Do I Remove and Replace My Car Roof Lining?
Replacing the roof lining in your car's interior is your best bet if the sag in your roof car lining is beyond repair and you want a full vehicle refresh.
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Remove the sun visors, interior lights and covers, grab handles, and anything else that might be in the way.
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Pull the lining away from the roof. Be careful you don’t cause any extra damage.
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Cut your new fabric to size and attach it with fabric glue or a staple gun to your car’s interior.
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Replace all the trim and fixtures once the new roof lining is secure.
It might be worth talking to a professional upholsterer if you’re not confident with DIY.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace My Car Roof Lining?
Replacing your car roof lining can cost you anywhere from $150-600, on average. The costs depend on the make and model of your car and the headliner fabric.
Replacing your car roof lining yourself will save you money. But if you want it done seamlessly, it’s worth speaking to an expert.
Final Thoughts on Fixing Your Car Roof Lining
No one likes a sagging roof lining. Thankfully, it’s not usually an expensive fix – especially if you do it yourself. It will add years to the look of your car, whether you go for the DIY approach with glue or decide to replace the whole roof lining.
And remember, preventative measures can go a long way to avoid a sagging roof lining.
FAQs
What Is the Best Glue to Use on My Car Roof Lining?
Look for headliner adhesive spray or fabric glue. These are specifically designed to handle the weight and texture of car roof linings and offer strong, long-lasting adhesion.
What Material to Use for Car Roof Lining?
Car roof linings are usually made from cloth, foam, or vinyl. If you’re replacing your roof lining, choose a new material that suits your vehicle’s interior style – and your budget.