How to Get the Right Sunroof

So you've finally saved up the money to add an aftermarket sunroof to your ride. The problem is, you're not sure which sunroof is the right type for your vehicle, or even what kinds of sunroofs exist. You want a sunroof which will meet your particular needs but will still fit into your budget. Read on to understand the difference between the three major types of aftermarket sunroofs and where each ranks according to cost.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Learn about a pop-up sunroof. This kind of manually operated sunroof is basically a window in the roof of a car that tilts up in the rear to form a crack for air ventilation. This sunroof can also be removed altogether and stored outside the car. This is the lowest-priced sunroof, and it can fit on almost all makes of cars and trucks.

2. Think about a spoiler (tilt-and-slide) sunroof. This manual or power sunroof tilts to vent like a pop-up sunroof, but it can also slide all the way open, coming to rest on top of the roof. This sunroof is priced mid-range, and it allows a user to install a fully opening sunroof on a car with a top that is too short for an inbuilt sunroof. This sunroof may include options such as ignition auto-close, one-touch open and internal sliding sunshade.

3. Consider an inbuilt sunroof. This power sunroof opens fully and disappears between the roof of the car and the car's headliner. It may tilt as well as fully slide open. This is the most expensive option and can not fit in all cars due to the necessary roof length needed for installation. This type of sunroof will steal some of a car's headroom. Options such as vents, ignition auto-close, one-touch open and an internal sliding sunshade may be included.

4. Know different sunroof sizes. A small, medium, large or extra large sunroof can be installed depending on the size of the vehicle and its roof length. Consult a skilled aftermarket sunroof installation professional to determine which size sunroof best fits your vehicle.

5. Be aware of other issues which may affect sunroof installation. Ribbed car roofs, fiberglass car roofs and stepped rooflines may limit which kinds of sunroofs can be properly installed.