How to Service a Sunroof in a Chevy Silverado

Performing routine maintenance on the sunroof of your Chevy Silverado will keep it functioning smoothly. It's generally recommended you clean and inspect your sunroof's mechanics at least twice a year in order to keep it in proper working condition.

Things You'll Need

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

Instructions

Replace the Sun Roof's Gasket

1. Use your screwdriver to remove the interior trim and headliner that cover your sunroof. Consider taking photographs before you do this, to help you reinstall the trim after your repairs are complete.

2. Remove sunroof by unscrewing the screws and bolts that secure the sunroof to the vehicle. Unplug the electrical source from the back of the sunroof.

3. Ask a friend to help you lift the sunroof up and away from the body of your Chevy Silverado, to make sure you don't damage anything during the process.

4. Tug the existing rubber seal out of its trench. Scrape away any excessive rubber or adhesive until the trench is clean. Inspect the trench for rust. If you find any, paint it with Rustoleum to prevent further deterioration.

5. Install the new rubber seal, starting with the outer lip first, then the inner lip. You can use the plastic scraper to help this process along. Look for any bulges or wrinkles. If you find any, pull the seal out and reinstall it until it sits smoothly inside the trench.

6. Return your sunroof to its original position, checking frequently to make sure it's level. Reconnect the sunroof's power source. Replace the headliner, followed by the trim pieces that secure it.

Maintain a Sun Roof

1. Park your Chevy Silverado 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 leaks.

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

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, as it's a water based lubricant that will freeze in the winter. In addition, it can cause rusting.