Water Dripping From The Headliner
Water dripping from the roof lining usually comes from blocked or detached sunroof drains, a worn sunroof seal, a leaking roof antenna or a windscreen seal.
Normal risk
Fix it soon. Water inside the roof can reach wiring and airbag parts and causes mould.
Short answer · Why is water coming through my car roof lining?
Sunroofs are not fully watertight; they collect water in a tray and drain it through small tubes in the pillars. When these tubes block with dirt or come loose, water overflows into the headliner. A loose roof antenna, roof rails or a windscreen that was replaced with poor sealing can also let water in.
Safe checks you can do
- Open the sunroofLook for the drain holes in the corners of the tray and remove leaves.
- Pour a little water in the trayIt should drain out quickly under the car.Use only a small amount so it does not overflow.
- Check the antenna and railsLook for cracked seals.
Questions that narrow it down
- Does the car have a sunroof?Drains are the most common cause.
- Was the windscreen replaced?The seal may be leaking.
- Is the headliner stained near a pillar?A drain tube there may have come off.
Possible causes
Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.
- Blocked sunroof drainWater overflows the tray.
- Detached drain tubeWater runs into the pillar.
- Worn sunroof sealWater enters past the glass.
- Roof antenna sealDrips near the rear.
- Windscreen sealDrips at the front edge.
Questions about Water Dripping From The Headliner
Can I clear the drains myself?
Often with a flexible line or compressed air at low pressure; avoid pushing the tube off its connection.
Can a wet headliner be dried?
Yes, but it can sag or stain. Dry it fully to prevent mould.