How to Service a Sunroof in a Chevy Impala

Performing routine maintenance on the sunroof of your Chevy Impala will keep it functioning smoothly. If you experience squeaking or a damp headliner, consult your dealer. There were technical service bulletin issued for both these issues, although no specific model years were specified.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Plastic scraper
• Rustoleum
• New rubber seal
• Screwdriver
• Compressed air
• 3-In-One Lubricant
• Lint-free cloth

Instructions

Replace the Sun Roof Gasket

1. Unscrew the trim and the headliner from the top of your Chevy Impala to access the sunroof

2. Remove the screws and bolts that secure the sunroof to your Impala and set them aside. Unplug the power source, located behind the sunroof.

3. Lift the sunroof up and away from the vehicle. Be careful to avoid damaging the sunroof or the body of your Chevy Impala during this process. You might consider asking a friend for help.

4. Pull the old rubber seal out of its channel. Use a plastic scraper to remove any stubborn rubber or adhesive that remains.

5. Inspect the channel for rust. Clean the channel thoroughly and paint it with Rustoleum to prevent rust from damaging your roof.

6. Lay the new rubber seal in place. Put the outer lip in first, followed by the inner lip. You can use your plastic scraper to help. Look for gaps, bulges or wrinkles. Pull up the seal and reinstall it in problem spots, until the seal lays evenly in the channel.

7. Reinstall the sunroof, checking frequently for level. Once it's installed, make sure it's in proper working order, then replace the interior headliner and trim work to the interior of your Chevy Impala.

Maintain Your Sun Roof

1. Park your Chevy Impala on a level surface and look at the sunroof. Make sure it's seated properly, not lifted or raised at one side or corner. If you see such warping, it's an indication the tracks need cleaning, or that the rubber seal needs to be replaced.

2. Clean the rubber seal around the exterior of your sunroof with damp, lint-free cloth. Look for cracks, gaps or excessive wear in the seal. Replace it if you find such defects, to prevent leaking in the interior of your Chevy Impala.

3. Remove the interior trim and allow the cloth that covers the ceiling of your Chevy Impala to drop down so you can access the tracks to your sunroof. Use compressed air to blow out debris and lubricate the tracks with 3-In-One Lubricant.

4. Locate the four drain tubes that remove excess water from your sunroof. Use compressed air to blow any debris or clogs from the drains. Note that two of these tubes drain to the front of your vehicle. Two drain to the rear, usually behind the tail lights. Check your owner's manual for exact locations, as they can vary slightly.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use WD-40 to lubricate your sunroof tracks. It's a water based lubricant that will freeze in the winter. In addition, it can cause rusting.

• A technical service bulletin is not the same as a recall. You will be charged for repairs made to your Chevy Impala unless it's still under warranty.