How to Repair a Leaking Car Sunroof

Repairing a leaky sunroof usually leads to discovering that the sunroof is not the culprit of the leak. Instead dirt and debris may be the likely culprits since they obstruct the drainage tubes or the drain channel that are part of the sunroof's water management system. Once these are obstructed, the water backs up and heads for the nearest escape, which may be to the interior of your car. The following instructions are to help you repair a leaking car sun roof.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cleaner
• Thin tube
• Thin wire
• Water
• Wet soft cloth

1. Use a non-abrasive cleaner with a soft cloth to clean the glass panel and the seal on the outside of the car.

2. Open the sunroof after opening the vent shade. Allow the sunroof to open to the vent position but do not let it slide backwards.

3. Wipe and clean the trough that is around the opening of the sunroof. Use a wet cloth to remove any debris that may be preventing a tight seal between the trough and the sunroof's seal.

4. Inspect the seal. Look for any cracks in the seal. If you find any, you will need to replace the seal. Contact the car manufacturer or a repair shop to replace the seal.

5. Check the drainage tubes. You can use a small cable or even a coat hanger to gently probe around for a few inches to see if there are any clogs or standing water in the tubes.

6. Use a thin cable or coat hanger wire again to try to clear the drainage tubes if they are clogged. Make sure whatever you use does not have a sharp end and apply only a little pressure.

7. Verify that any of the standing water in the drainage tubes went down by poking a dry thin cable or wire down an inch or and pulling the wire back out.

8. Check that the clogs are completely gone in the drainage tubes by pouring a small amount of water into the tubes.

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