How to Install a Truck Headliner

Over time, the truck headliner of your pickup tends to get dirty, and sometimes cleaning it with upholstery cleaner isn’t enough. If you use your pickup truck for outdoor activities and work, the truck headliner may pick up more than regular dirt. It may also collect other types of dirt like grease, grime and mud. You may decide you'd rather replace the truck headliner than try to clean it.

Step 1 - Remove the Sun Visors

Remove the sun visors with your screwdriver. Some visors may snap off, depending on the make of the vehicle. You should remove any other accessory attachments to your headliner as well. To make sure you remove any accessories properly, check your owner’s manual so as not to damage anything. Put aside removed accessories, especially small screws that you might need once you reinstall the accessories.

Step 2 - Remove the Old Truck Headliner

Start at the dome light inside the truck. There should be an adequate opening so you can pull the headliner off.

If the first technique doesn't work, you can pull on one corner and then go to the next until you get all the corners loose. Then firmly pull until the whole thing comes off.

Step 3 - Clean the Roof

Clean the roof if you notice any residue left from the old headliner. You may use a metal scraper to do the job. Don’t scrape too much, as you may damage the headliner board. After scraping, use your handheld vacuum to remove any remaining dirt. If the roof is not totally free of dirt and residue, the adhesive might not stick well, and your headliner will be unstable.

Step 4 - Apply Adhesive

Apply adhesive on the headliner board. Make sure that the surface is well-covered with glue. Let the glue sit for a few minutes but make sure it doesn’t totally dry out before you continue.

Step 5 - Install the New Truck Headliner

Install the new truck headliner by pressing it firmly against the roof of the truck. Apply even, firm pressure on all sides, corners and the center of the headliner board to secure it in place.

Step 6 - Reattach All Accessories

Reattach all accessories, such as the visors, that you removed in Step 1.