Essential Guide to the Top 4 Car Sunroof Repairs: What You Need to Know
When you buy a vehicle, certain features can enhance your driving experience, add comfort, and even increase resale value. One of the most popular add-on accessories is the sunroof or moonroof. Sunroofs operate automatically, using a system of cables, motors, and gears that allow a glass panel to slide open, providing natural light and fresh air. While many sunroofs are designed well and built to last, there are times when damage can occur.
If you’re considering adding a sunroof to your new car or experiencing issues with your existing one, it’s important to understand the potential repairs and associated costs. This knowledge will help you make an informed decision about whether adding a sunroof is a smart choice. Below, we outline four common car sunroof repairs in the United States and the costs associated with completing them.
1. Broken Sunroof Motor
There was a time when a sunroof was a manually operated system. The driver would unlock the sunroof, slide it open, and then manually close it when needed to protect the car’s interior from the elements and for security reasons. Today’s sunroofs are built for convenience, with motorized systems that open and close the glass panel at the push of a button. The most common sunroof problem is a malfunctioning motor, which may stop working due to various reasons.
Common causes of a broken sunroof motor include:
- Seized internal gears within the motor
- Broken motor operating gears
- Loss of electric power due to a damaged fuse, relay, or wiring
- Electrical issues such as frayed wires or poor connections
The first step in fixing this issue is diagnosing the root cause. Given the variety of factors involved, estimating the cost of a sunroof motor repair can be challenging. However, replacing the motor typically costs between $100 and $500, with additional labor charges on top. If the problem is electrical, such as a blown fuse or faulty relay, the repair cost may be minimal.
2. Leaking Sunroof
While sunroofs are designed to open on sunny days, they can sometimes allow water to leak into your car. This brings us to the second most common sunroof repair: fixing a leaking sunroof. Sunroof leaks are often caused by debris clogging the sunroof drainage system. A sunroof typically has four to eight drainage tubes located at the corners of the assembly. When these tubes become clogged with dirt, leaves, or other debris, water can seep into the vehicle’s interior, causing damage and discomfort.
If the leak is due to blocked drainage tubes, the repair cost is usually affordable—typically no more than a few hundred dollars. However, if the seal around the sunroof is damaged, more extensive repairs involving the removal and replacement of the seal and possibly the sunroof itself may be necessary.
3. Broken Sunroof Cable or Track
The sunroof operates using a system of cables and tracks connected to a motor. These components work together to pull the sunroof open and closed. If either the cable or the track breaks, the sunroof may become unusable. Repairing a broken cable or track requires removing the entire sunroof assembly, which can be a costly procedure, often exceeding $800.
4. Broken Sunroof Glass
You might think that broken sunroof glass would be one of the top three repairs, but it actually ranks fourth. Sunroof glass is tempered and shatter-resistant, but it’s not shatterproof. There are times when a sunroof may be damaged, such as from debris hitting it while driving or objects falling on it (e.g., tree branches). Replacing the glass itself is usually straightforward, but the challenge lies in removing the shattered glass safely.
If the sunroof glass needs to be replaced, the cost typically ranges from $200 to $500 for car glass. However, this estimate may increase depending on the vehicle and the complexity of the replacement.
Why You Should Trust Professionals for Sunroof Repairs
A sunroof is a complex and functional system that should be repaired by professionals. While it may be tempting to fix these issues yourself, attempting to do so can lead to further damage and ultimately a visit to a sunroof or auto repair specialist for a full replacement. If you encounter a problem with your sunroof, it’s best to consult a specialist who can accurately diagnose and repair the issue.
