Model Y Black Headliner Retrofit: Full DIY Cost Breakdown & Custom Alternatives
Hey everyone, DennisCW here! If you've been following my channel, you know we've talked about upgrading the headliner on the Tesla Model Y before. But now, we've got real before-and-after pics, a detailed receipt, and the exact cost from a full OEM retrofit. Our buddy Brandon from Tesllex just did this on his Model Y Performance, swapping out the factory gray headliner for the sleek black OEM one.
The DIY OEM Retrofit: What It Costs and How It's Done
Brandon shared awesome before shots of his gray headliner and stunning after pics with the black OEM pieces installed. The best part? He did it himself and documented the entire process in a killer YouTube video (check it out [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIDEO_LINK—if available)).
Here's the breakdown:
- Total cost (including tax and shipping): $1,979.98
- This covers the massive headliner piece plus every single bit and bob needed.
- He itemized everything in the video, so you can follow along step-by-step.
If you're a DIYer, this is totally doable in your garage. Not feeling handy? You could pay a pro—or even Tesla—to handle the install. The end result is a super clean, factory-fresh look that elevates the entire interior.
(Pro tip: Watch Brandon's video for the full transformation!)
Our Custom Suede Upgrade: A Premium Alternative
On my Model Y, we went a different route with a custom suede Alcantara headliner from Starlight Auto. Shoutout to Jeremiah in the Brea area of Southern California—he knocked it out in one day by gluing the suede directly onto our existing OEM headliner.
- Full service install included.
- Dennis Deal: DM him on Instagram (@starlightauto_) and mention the "Dennis deal" for exclusive savings!
Compared to the OEM retrofit, our custom job came in at about 50% less (including labor and materials). It's luxurious, unique, and tailored just for you.
Which Path Should You Choose?
- OEM DIY: Perfect for that stock black look on a budget if you're handy (~$2K total).
- Custom Suede: Go premium for less money overall, with pro install.
Newer Model Ys are coming with the black headliner stock—lucky you! But for the rest of us, these options make it achievable.
What do you think? Drop your thoughts in the comments—DIY or custom?
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Thanks for reading—subscribe to the channel for more Tesla tips, and I'll catch you in the next one! 🚀
DennisCW



