If you notice the fabric inside your car’s roof sagging, it means the headliner needs fixing. Many car owners face this problem as their vehicle ages. The glue holding the fabric loses grip, and the material starts to fall. This article will explain how to fix the headliner on a car, the repair options available, and how much it can cost.
Why Does the Headliner Start to Sag?
The headliner has layers. It’s made of a fabric stretched over a foam backing, glued to the car’s ceiling board. Over time, heat and humidity cause the glue to dry out. When this occurs, the headliner material comes loose and begins to droop. Cars parked in the sun or in hot areas face this problem more often.
Signs Your Headliner Needs Repair
You’ll notice the fabric drooping, especially near the edges or centre. It might start hanging near the rearview mirror or by the doors. In some cases, the headliner can even block your view. It makes the car look untidy and can be annoying as it touches your head while driving.
DIY Methods to Fix the Headliner
If a small part of the roof cloth is loose, you can fix it with glue spray. Lift the cloth. Spray glue on the board. Press the cloth back in place. This is an easy fix for small spots. You can fix it yourself without much effort if you want. However, it doesn’t take a lot of time.
You can also use thumbtacks or pins. They will hold the cloth up. This is only a temporary fix. Double-sided tape is another option. But it may fall off in hot weather. So you have to tack them on very carefully.
For bigger sagging areas, try a steam cleaner. Use a roller to press the cloth back. This works if the sagging is recent. Be patient, as it takes time. The process has to be a bit gentle.
Replacing the Entire Headliner
You can follow this easily. If you think the fabric is beyond repair, you need to replace it. That happens to be the only option. This involves removing the headliner board from the car and peeling off the old fabric. Then you have to clean the surface. And apply new headliner fabric with adhesive spray. Please be careful to avoid bubbles. Wrinkles also need to be avoided as much as you can. It is better for you.
This process can take a few hours. It requires basic tools like screwdrivers, a brush, and adhesive spray. The new fabric is affordable, but the labour is what makes the task time-consuming.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Headliner?
If you fix it yourself, the cost is minimal. Adhesive spray cans are priced around $10 to $15. New headliner fabric costs between $30 to $60, depending on size and quality. So, a DIY repair might cost under $100.
If you go to a professional, expect to pay between $200 to $500. It all depends on how complex the car is and how much damage is done. Larger vehicles like SUVs or vans will cost more than compact cars. Custom fabrics or luxury materials will also increase the price.
Should You Fix It Yourself or Call a Professional?
If the sagging is small and you’re comfortable using basic tools, a DIY repair is a good option. It’s budget-friendly and can be done in your garage. However, if the entire headliner is falling or if you want a perfect finish, it’s safer to get professional help. They have the right tools and experience to make it look new.
Also, if your car has airbags in the roof area, it’s better to let an expert handle the repair. You don’t want to accidentally damage any safety features.
How to Prevent Future Sagging
Always try to park your car in the shade. It will help to reduce wear and tear. Using a sunshade on your windshield helps reduce heat buildup inside. Regularly checking for loose edges and fixing them early can prevent bigger problems later.
Using a good-quality adhesive during repair also helps the headliner stay intact for a longer period. Cheap glues may save you money in the short term, but often fail in hot conditions.
Final Thoughts
Fixing a headliner on your car is a manageable task if the damage is small. You can do simple things yourself, but leave the complicated stuff for pros. The cost depends on whether you do it yourself or hire someone. Taking care of the headliner early will keep your car’s interior looking neat and avoid costly repairs down the line.
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