FAQ
TL;DR: Use a spray adhesive rated 120–130°C; “temperature is the most important parameter.” Clean off the old foam and re-cover with new fabric for a lasting Octavia 1 headliner fix. Spot-injection is only a stopgap. [Elektroda, Tommy93, post #17370987]
Why it matters: Done right, your repair survives summer heat and avoids repeat sagging, saving money over shop fixes.
Quick Facts
- Heat spec: Choose spray adhesive rated about 120–130°C for headliners; lower ratings can fail in sun-heated cabins [Elektroda, Tommy93, post #17370987]
- Fabric and time: 1.5 m² gray headliner cloth cost 18 PLN; add a spray can; plan ~3 hours [Elektroda, andrzej20001, post #17238364]
- Pro pricing: Material + labor from ~400 PLN without removing the liner from the car [Elektroda, Samuraj, post #17238438]
- DIY outcome: One owner finished in an afternoon for ~50 PLN; wagons ease headliner removal [Elektroda, web69, post #17238509]
- Root cause: Aging foam deteriorates; gluing over old cloth can bleed through and stain—use new fabric [Elektroda, strucel, post #17244545]
Why is my Octavia 1 headliner sagging after ~20 years?
Age degrades the foam backing, not the board or glue. The fabric drops as the foam turns to dust. If you glue over old cloth, adhesive can soak through and leave stains. The durable fix uses new headliner fabric over a cleaned board. [Elektroda, strucel, post #17244545]
Can I glue just the middle without pulling the whole headliner?
Yes, for a stopgap. Load fast‑drying glue in a syringe with a fine needle. Inject small amounts into bubbles and press to bond. It will not look perfect, but your head will stop rubbing it. Plan to re‑cover fully later for aesthetics. [Elektroda, g107r, post #17237922]
What glue temperature rating should I use for a lasting repair?
Use a spray adhesive rated about 120–130°C for headliners. Lower ratings soften in summer sun and release the fabric. “The maximum temperature that the adhesive can withstand is the most important parameter.” Spray pattern adjustment helps even coverage. Clean surfaces first for best results. [Elektroda, Tommy93, post #17370987]
Should I reuse the original fabric or replace it?
Replace it. “Gluing old material is pointless. He always lets go. Only new material.” New cloth over a cleaned board lasts longer and looks better. Reusing the old fabric risks bleed‑through and premature failure. Budget for fabric and adhesive rather than repeated repairs. [Elektroda, andrzej20001, post #19585248]
How much fabric do I need and what will it cost?
Expect to use about 1.5 m² of headliner fabric. One user paid 18 PLN for 1×1.5 m gray cloth. Add a spray can adhesive and set aside roughly three hours. Measure your board before buying to confirm coverage. [Elektroda, andrzej20001, post #17238364]
Can I do the re-trim in a single afternoon?
Yes. A wagon owner finished the job in one afternoon without prior experience. Total spend was about 50 PLN. Removing the headliner was easier thanks to the larger tailgate opening. Prepare tools and workspace in advance to save time. [Elektroda, web69, post #17238509]
What do upholstery shops charge to re-wrap the headliner?
Reported prices start at 400 PLN for material and labor, without disassembly. Careful DIY work can match shop quality and cost far less. Consider the trade‑off between time and warranty. [Elektroda, Samuraj, post #17238438]
How do I re-cover the headliner with new material? (3 steps)
- Remove the board and thoroughly clean off the crumbling sponge and old glue.
- Use a spray adhesive with an adjustable nozzle; apply evenly to both surfaces.
- Lay the new fabric per adhesive instructions and smooth uniformly.
“It is also important to remove the old glue and sponge carefully!” [Elektroda, Tommy93, post #17370987]
Are spray adhesives better than brush-on for headliners?
Yes. One user wrote, “I can not imagine another glue than a spray.” Adjustable nozzles help control coverage and avoid over-wetting. Clean the substrate thoroughly for adhesion. High heat resistance remains crucial for longevity. [Elektroda, Tommy93, post #17370987]
Can I patch a small area without removing the board?
If the inner layer is intact, you can cut and reglue locally. A user cut the fabric, sprayed adhesive, waited three minutes, and pressed back. No marks remained due to the carpet-like texture. If the inside crumbles, replace the fabric instead. [Elektroda, Rzodkiewa89, post #18484732]
Is polar fleece a viable headliner fabric?
Yes. One member reported a successful re-trim using polar fleece. It offers a different look and texture. [Elektroda, Samuraj, post #17244617]
Can gas fumes or solvents make the headliner fail again?
Yes. A member traced repeated failures to gasoline vapors from a leaky 5 L canister. The fumes dissolved the adhesive or degraded the foam. Keep fuel and solvents out of the cabin to protect the repair. Ventilate thoroughly if contamination occurs. [Elektroda, szalat, post #19585161]
Is ANSER “Strong upholstery” spray suitable for headliners?
Avoid it for roofs. A user reported the liner fell again after one year. Heat tolerance was insufficient for a sun‑baked car body. Choose an adhesive rated 120–130°C instead. “The maximum temperature … is the most important parameter.” [Elektroda, Tommy93, post #17370987]
Any resource to help choose the right glue?
Yes. See this practical cheat sheet on selecting headliner adhesives, including heat ratings and application tips. It explains what to check before buying. [“Jaki klej do podsufitki wybrać”]
Has anyone used Boterm GTA OP 1L for headliners?
Yes. One member used Boterm GTA OP 1L and shared the product link. Evaluate heat resistance before use in a roof area. [Elektroda, olador, post #17237889]
Can I change the headliner color during re-trim?
Yes. New fabric lets you choose a different color, such as black. One member noted the car looked interesting after a color change. [Elektroda, strucel, post #17244545]
