We believe there are few things worse than getting into a car with a wet interior after heavy rain or a storm when your sunroof is leaking. You can ensure this doesn’t happen again with a few simple procedures that work on any make or model. Let’s follow the steps below to learn how to fix a leaking sunroof in your car.
Sunroof – Is It Really Necessary for Your Car?
The concept of the sunroof, described as a temporary movable roof above a car, became known in the late 1920s and early 1930s and evolved into many models over time up to the present day. This part is designed with many different models and sizes, suitable for each vehicle model and needs such as pop-up sunroofs, top-sliding sunroofs, spoiler sunroofs, and built-in sunroofs.
The goal of creating a sunroof is considered practical as it helps reduce wind noise more than opening the side windows and allows users to more easily let fresh air into the car and feel more elegant than opening the side windows. Since its development, this design has been highly appreciated by drivers because it offers a much better experience than a sedan. Up to now, the sunroof has benefited from many improvements, fulfilling the following important roles:
Expel Polluted Air from the Car
Sunroofs are made according to the principle of convection (hot air above, cold air below). When you use a car, body heat and hot air will make the interior space very stuffy and uncomfortable. At this point, opening the sunroof will release hot air and polluted air from your car, letting in natural air from outside, bringing comfort and ventilation.
Useful Exit
This is the main feature and also the outstanding advantage of a sunroof. In emergency situations such as the car falling into water or an accident where the driver cannot exit the cabin through the side door, the sunroof serves as an important exit. This helps drivers handle it themselves without spending too much time and effort.
Reduce the Temperature in the Car
Hot weather will cause the temperature inside the car to rise, heat will accumulate on the car’s ceiling, causing a feeling of discomfort. Furthermore, the air conditioner also takes some time to turn on and cool down. With a sunroof, simply open it, and the heat quickly escapes outside. Therefore, installing a sunroof helps make the space inside the cabin more airy and comfortable.
One cannot deny the benefits of the sunroof in terms of aesthetics as well as convenience for users. Many car manufacturers include the sunroof equipment on the list of options applied to expensive versions, to increase value, but in reality, there are inconveniences that car owners do not anticipate. Besides some drawbacks such as increased maintenance costs, posing a danger if used carelessly, and reduced engine aerodynamics, a leaking sunroof is also a big problem that concerns many drivers.
Symptoms of a Leaking Sunroof You Should Know
Sunroofs are a great additional option for many vehicles, but they can cause unwanted problems such as moisture leaks inside your car, which can lead to mold and other issues. It will be a good idea if you can notice the signs of a leaking sunroof to have timely methods. If the sunroof cracks or leaks are significant, you will easily notice the water leakage phenomenon. But for a minor crack, it needs to be inspected carefully to detect the problem:
- If you detect a lot of steam condensing inside your car, it could be a sign of a leaking sunroof. Condensation occurs when the humidity is much higher than normal. Due to the high humidity, you will smell a strange odor like mildew in your cabin at that time.
- Cracks on the sunroof: This is a sign that can be easily observed visually. Even though the sunroof is made of tempered glass, it can still be damaged because it is not unbreakable glass. Cracks can occur due to falling objects or debris while driving. You will need to consult a professional to repair or replace the glass.
- In addition, there are other signs like mold spores on the carpets and chairs or water stains on the seats or carpets.
How to Fix a Leaking Sunroof in Your Car?
Before going to discover the methods to handle the leaking sunroof, we need to know what the culprit of this problem is:
What are the Reasons for a Leaking Sunroof?
There are some common causes you cannot ignore:
A Clogged Sunroof Drain: The sunroof drainage system uses holes and channels to drain accumulated water. Water is directed to tubes that carry it to the bottom of the vehicle, where it is eventually released. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate and clog the drain. When the drainage system doesn’t work properly, your sunroof can leak.
Damaged Seals: The sunroof opens and closes along a predetermined path and it must be completely watertight to prevent water from entering the cabin. If cracks develop in the seal or rail, rain will easily enter your car at that time.
Debris Buildup: Another reason that can cause a sunroof leak is when dirt or debris accumulates in the seal, the sunroof will get stuck and cannot close completely.
How to Seal a Sunroof in Your Car?
Automotive experts have stated that due to weather conditions in some countries, installing a sunroof can sometimes cause many problems for drivers if it leaks. In particular, solving the above problem will become expensive if you don’t know how to do it. If you are unsure about performing a repair process yourself, you can consult professionals or entrust your car to a trusted mechanic, who will help you correct this error while a faulty seal could be the problem of your leaking sunroof:
Clean the Drain/Track with a Soft Towel
How to clean sunroof drains? When there is a leak or moisture on the roof, the first thing to do is park the car in a dry place and check the drain line on the sunroof. Use a damp cloth to carefully clean the sunroof track of debris that could potentially get into the drain. You should also wipe the seals to ensure there is nothing stuck inside that could create an opening when the sunroof is closed.
Clean the Water Lines with Compressed Air or Metal Wire
In this method, you need to locate your sunroof drains. Depending on your vehicle, there could be four and they would be located in the corners of the sunroof opening. They lead to tubes that carry the liquid through the windshield frame to the bottom of your vehicle. Pour a small amount of water into the drains and look under your car to see if it flows out. If there is no puddle on the ground, your drain line is clogged. To clean your drain line, use compressed air or metal wire to dislodge debris that might be clogging the tube. Most debris would be near the top opening of the tube.
When using metal wire, you need to use a small, thin piece of metal wire to thread it inside the tube. Then, rotate the piece of string in two different directions while pushing inward. Note that the ends of the wire should not be used to avoid damaging this plumbing system.
Repair or Replace the Cracked Rubber Seal
Regularly observe for cracks or deformations along the rubber gasket. This is because, over time, the seals will age and crack due to frequent exposure to sun and rain. Look for places where the seals are waterlogged or moldy to replace or repair them promptly. The way to fix this situation is to spread a thick layer of liquid electrical tape over the seal to cover all cracks. Then, while waiting for the liquid to dry and form a protective layer against water, firmly press the adhesive tape onto the rubber gasket and let it dry completely.
After applying the above methods, close the sunroof and try rinsing to check. If water still flows inside, try again. If the sunroof still cannot be repaired, it’s best to take the car to a reputable repair center for timely inspection and handling. Ideally, the sunroof should be cleaned regularly to avoid staying in the car and having to let in water when it rains. It can be very expensive to repair a leaking sunroof. How much does it cost to fix a sunroof? You may have to pay between $250 and $750, or even more, to replace a sunroof, including parts and labor.
Final Thoughts: How to Fix a Leaking Sunroof in Your Car?
Drivers should not be subjective about the situation of seepage or leakage in the car cabin. Because if left for too long, it can affect the electrical system and the vehicle’s operation. The cost of repairs when the car is heavily soaked can be very high. To avoid paying this cost, you can protect your sunroof by maintaining and cleaning this part regularly. When your sunroof shows signs like sticking, leaking, or strange noise. You should have it checked by a trusted mechanic. Do not delay this problem, as it could lead to more expensive repairs. In particular, leaks can wreak havoc on your car, causing moisture and mold buildup.