How to Maintain Your Vehicle’s Sunroof

There’s nothing like feeling the breeze on a lovely day when you pop your sunroof open. However, the last thing you want to feel is rain or cold air coming through when it’s closed because of leaking seals or other problems. Fortunately, maintaining your sunroof is fairly simply, and our sunroof repair company is sharing some tips on how to do it.

Keep Your Sunroof Clean

Debris, like pine needles and rocks, leaves, dirt, and acorns can all get trapped in and around the sunroof, but cleaning it regularly will remove the debris and ensure it’s functioning better for a longer period of time. Instead of just wiping down the glass, follow these steps for a thorough clean:

• Open the vent and clean the visible areas. If there is a lot of dirt and debris, you may need to use a vacuum to get it all out from the tracks.
• Use a clean, microfiber cloth and cleaning solution, such as auto cleaner or even a bit of watered-down dish detergent to wipe down the moving parts as well as the gasket around the roof, the slides, and track. Take care to get in between any ridges, creases, or folds. You may need to use a toothbrush to get rid of any stuck on dirt.
• Rinse any soapy residue with a damp, clean rag and take a clean, lint-free cloth to dry everything.
• Use a very small amount of heat-resistant silicone lubricant to lubricate the moving parts to keep the sunroof opening and closing smoothly.
• Clean the glass gently.

Use the Proper Cleaning Products on Your Sunroof

When you think of cleaning glass, you may think of just reaching for the Windex or even vinegar to remove dirt and fingerprints. However, ammonia and vinegar can actually be toxic in warm, closed up environments (like a car) as well as dry out the rubber seal and cause it to wear out more quickly.

You also want to avoid using any petroleum-based products on the sunroof components as they can react with the rubber gasket and cause the glass to adhere. When you open the sunroof, the gasket will rip.

Detailing the Drain Tubes

Drain tubes prevent water damage and open on the ledge of the sunroof, move down your car, and drain onto the ground. The same dirt and debris that can collect around the sunroof can also get into the drain tubes and cause a clog that may lead to a leak inside your car. To unclock the tubes, you can use a can of compressed air or a slim wire to run down the tube to get rid of the blockage. However, if the clog is really stuck or it’s still leaking after you run air or wire through it, it’s probably time to take your car in to a professional.

Get a Quote for a Sunroof Replacement Today

If you were cleaning your sunroof and it cracked, an acorn chipped it, or you have an aftermarket installation that is leaking, we can help. Our experienced glass technicians can repair or replace your sunroof quickly and efficiently, even a solar sunroof or panoramic type. We serve Raleigh, Cary, Garner, Apex, Wake Forest, Holly Springs, and nearby areas. To schedule a quote or learn more, reach out to us today at  919-772-1007 or fill out the form below.