Step 1: Remove headlining
This is the first step in re-covering a car headlining with suede. Before you can fit any new fabric, you need to get the old headlining board out of the car and strip the worn material off it.
What the headlining board is
The headlining board is the rigid panel that sits against the roof inside the car. The fabric you see is bonded to it. When that fabric stains, fades or starts to sag, the fix is to re-cover the board rather than replace anything structural.
Why take the board out of the car
Always take the board out of the vehicle where you can. Working on it on a bench or table is far easier than reaching up inside the car, and you will get a much cleaner result. It also keeps adhesive and foam debris out of the cabin.
What to remove first
Getting the board free usually means taking out the parts that hold it in place. That tends to include:
- The trim around the edges of the roof lining
- The grab handles
- The sun visors
- Any roof lights or interior lamps
With those out of the way, the board can drop down and come free. Every car is slightly different, so check how yours comes apart before you start prising at anything. A quick search for your model can save you breaking a clip.
Strip off the old fabric
Once the board is out, peel off the old fabric and throw it away. On the car in this guide the original grey material was stained from a water leak and well past its best, so it came straight off.
Underneath you will usually find a layer of foam stuck to the board. Dealing with that is the next job, and it is the part that matters most.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Forcing trim clips instead of checking how they release, which can crack them.
- Trying to do the whole job with the board still in the car.
- Throwing away clips or fixings you will need to refit the board later.
FAQ
Do I have to remove the headlining board to re-cover it?
It is strongly recommended. You can technically work in the car, but the finish is much harder to get right and you risk getting adhesive on the interior.
How hard is it to take a headliner out?
For most cars it is straightforward, just fiddly. The main task is removing the trim, handles, visors and lights that hold it in place.
Next step
With the board out and the old fabric gone, the next job is removing the old foam. This is the part that makes or breaks the whole project, so it is worth getting right.