Have a Sunroof Installed
A sunroof is an operable panel in the roof of a vehicle that allows in air and/or light. Sunroofs may be either manual or electric, feature a glass panel or open air, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The sunroofs many variations create a wide range of choices in factory installed and aftermarket options. Most vehicle manufacturers offer a factory-built sunroof option for nearly every make and model of vehicle, but, once the car leaves the assembly line, the factory option can no longer be integrated into the roof. Read the article below to learn how to have a sunroof installed.
Steps
- Ask the car dealership to recommend several reputable sunroof installers. Sunroof installation is not a do-it-yourself project as it requires the proper tools, training and updated technical bulletins. Professional installers are experienced and insured.
- Contact the installers to determine what type of sunroof is available for your make/model vehicle, the cost of installation and confirm that they offer a warranty on parts and labor.
- Schedule an appointment and bring your vehicle in for the installation. Typically, the following procedure is followed for an aftermarket sunroof installation:
- Remove the vehicle's headliner and cut the roof's sheet metal to a specific size.
- Run power wires from the fuse box to the sunroof.
- Cut the roof per the sunroof specifications, drop-in the sunroof kit and secure using appropriate bolts.
- Ensure proper connection of all wiring.
- Seal and finish all interior and exterior surfaces per kit specifications.
Tips
- Ask the dealership to sell you a sunroof appropriate for your make and model at cost.
- It is illegal for a dealer to void a new car warranty because of an aftermarket sunroof installation.
Warnings
- A sunroof should not be installed if structural components occupy the same space as the intended sunroof. Never cut or relocate structural components, as you may be compromising vehicle stability and safety.
