4 Common Sunroof Problems (And How to Fix Them)

February 15, 2023

Sunroofs offer a lot: fresh air, natural light, an increase in car value, etc. However, your sunroof is easily susceptible to damage if not properly cared for. And this, of course, can quickly turn into a nightmare—especially if it fails to close and the weather calls for heavy rain. Worse yet, a damaged sunroof can suddenly shatter while driving, posing a risk to you and your passengers.

At 5 Star Auto Glass, we are your full-service windshield repair shop. And our experienced technicians specialize in sunroof replacements and repairs. So if your vehicle has a sunroof in need of repair, we can help.

But if you’re just searching for general knowledge regarding your sunroof problems, we’ve got you covered on that front too. Here are 4 common sunroof issues and what you can do about them.

1. Sunroof Leaks

If your sunroof is leaking water during or after it rains, there could be a clog in the drain, or the rubber seals are worn. This issue may require a sunroof glass replacement if not addressed immediately. The reason is that leaking water can cause other problems within your car’s interior. For example, it can result in significant vehicle damage, decreasing its resale value and safety.

2. Shattered Sunroof

Although sunroof glass is heavy-duty, it’s not indestructible. A cracked or broken sunroof, even if it’s minor, should be fixed right away. Such crevices increase the chances of a complete window shattering while driving. Some of the most common causes of cracked sunroofs are collisions or heavy objects falling onto your car. If you’re parking your car in a garage, ensure there’s no overhead storage that will fall on top of your vehicle. Moreover, be wary of parking under trees during storms.

Although rare, a sunroof shattering while driving is extremely dangerous. Be sure to periodically look for damage to your sunroof that can be repaired. This process will help you avoid a full sunroof glass replacement.

3. Electrical Issues

An issue that understandably causes panic among car owners is a sunroof that won’t close. Inoperable sunroofs are usually caused by a dead motor, broken fuse, or faulty switch. These issues could be due to general wear and tear or from dirt or debris getting stuck in the gears. The good news is a trained auto repair technician can fix these electrical issues.

2. Sunroof Rattling While Driving

A common and annoying issue is a rattling sunroof as you’re driving. An easy fix is lubricating the sunroof’s moving parts with lightweight, heat-resistant grease. If it continues to rattle, the glass may be out of alignment. As a result, the skills of an auto glass repair shop might be necessary.

How to Fix Your Sunroof Problems

Your sunroof is an asset to your car’s configuration. And although it may seem like a standard feature, that doesn’t mean you should attempt fixing it on your own. You may inadvertently make things worse. For this reason, it’s important to contact experts with the skills and knowledge to fix such issues. At 5 Star Auto Glass, we are a team of experienced technicians that is here for your automobile repair needs.