A roof opening mechanism that slides or tilts to ventilate the passenger compartment. Traditional designs feature a solid metal panel matched to the body color, though glass variants are highly prevalent. The assembly relies on a track system, a drive motor, and dedicated drain tubes routed down the pillars to manage water intrusion.
Blow out the sunroof drain tubes with compressed air before you replace the headliner, or it will just get soaked again.
Clogged sunroof drain tubes are the primary cause of unexplained water pooling in the front floorboards.
Do not mix it up with
- Moonroof: A sunroof traditionally uses an opaque metal panel, while a moonroof uses tinted glass that lets light in even when closed.
Related terms
Moonroof
A sliding or tilting tinted glass panel built into the roof of a vehicle.
T-top
A vehicle roof style featuring two removable glass or solid panels separated by a central structural bar.
Headliner
The fabric-covered foam backing attached to the interior ceiling of a vehicle.
Passenger compartment
The enclosed section of a vehicle designed to house the driver and occupants.