How To Fix A Malfunctioning Subaru Sunroof

A malfunctioning Subaru sunroof can be frustrating, especially when it gets stuck or starts to leak during a rainy day. Whether it won’t open, makes a strange noise, or doesn't close all the way, the problem often feels worse than it is. While the sunroof adds comfort and fun to your drive, it can also run into trouble over time. If your Subaru’s sunroof starts acting up, it helps to know what might be causing the issue and what your next steps should be.

Look At What’s Not Working

Start by noticing what’s wrong. If the sunroof doesn’t move at all, the first thing to check is whether you hear anything when pressing the switch. If it’s silent, it could be a power issue. Sometimes, a blown fuse or a bad switch keeps the sunroof from working. On the other hand, if you hear the motor trying but nothing moves, the tracks might be blocked or the motor might be weak. Even dirt or leaves stuck in the frame can stop the sunroof from sliding properly.

Listen For Strange Sounds

If your sunroof makes grinding or clicking noises, that’s usually a sign something’s stuck or misaligned. These sounds often mean the sunroof is trying to move, but it’s having trouble. You might even feel the glass move unevenly or not close all the way. Water leaks can also show up when the sunroof doesn’t seal properly. Clogged drain holes in the corners of the sunroof are a common cause. When those get blocked, water backs up and drips inside your car.

Try A Simple Reset

Sometimes, the sunroof just needs to reset itself. You can try turning your car on, holding the sunroof switch in the tilt or close position, and keeping it there for several seconds. The glass may twitch or move slightly. If that happens, keep holding the switch to let the sunroof go through its cycle. This kind of reset can work if the sunroof is stuck because of a small motor glitch. If it doesn’t respond, it may be time to check deeper.

Don’t Ignore The Tracks And Seals

The sunroof slides on rails, and those rails need to stay clean. Over time, dirt and dry weather can make them sticky or rough. If the sunroof seems slow or jerky, it could be the tracks. Seals also play a big part. They keep the water out and the wind noise down. If they wear out or get cracked, the sunroof may rattle or let in rain. Keeping everything clean with a soft cloth and some light silicone spray helps keep things moving better.

What To Do When It’s Beyond Your Reach

Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, the problem just won’t go away. Motors can fail, switches can stop working, and parts can wear out over time. When your Subaru’s sunroof won’t respond or keeps acting up, it’s best not to force it. Trying to push or pull it into place can break the parts inside. Instead, getting help from people who work on Subarus every day is the safest step forward.

Let Us Help At Empire Subaru

If your sunroof is stuck, leaking, or making strange sounds, we’re here to help. At Empire Subaru, our Subaru service department in Huntington, NY knows how to handle issues like these with care and experience. Whether the problem is small or more complex, our trained technicians can inspect your sunroof, find out what’s wrong, and fix it using the right tools and parts. You don’t have to guess or worry about making it worse—we’ll take care of it for you. Book your visit with us today and let your Subaru sunroof work like it should again.