how much to put a sunroof in a car

[LaXavier]

Installing a sunroof in a car after purchase, known as an aftermarket sunroof, typically costs between **$800 and $3,500+. The final price depends heavily on the type of sunroof, your vehicle's make and model, and the quality of the installation. A basic pop-up sunroof is the most affordable, while a large, powered panoramic panel is a premium investment. It's a significant modification that requires careful consideration.

The single biggest factor is the type of sunroof you choose. A simple, manually operated pop-up sunroof is the most budget-friendly option. An in-glass sliding sunroof, which retracts inside the roof, is the most common upgrade. Top-of-the-line panoramic sunroofs, which cover a much larger area, command the highest prices.

Your vehicle's roof structure is another critical cost driver. Installers must cut into the roof's support framework, and some modern cars with complex safety engineering or built-in roll cages are not suitable for aftermarket sunroofs. Labor costs can vary significantly based on the shop's expertise and your geographic location.

Sunroof Type	Typical Price Range (Parts & Labor)	Key Characteristics
Pop-Up Sunroof	$800 - $1,500	Manual operation, tilts up for ventilation, does not retract.
In-Glass Sliding Sunroof	$1,200 - $2,500	Electric motor, panel slides open over the fixed roof. Most common aftermarket type.
Folding/Spoiler Sunroof	$1,800 - $3,000	Panel lifts and slides outside the roof, offering a more open feel.
Panoramic Sunroof	$2,500 - $4,500+	Large, often fixed glass panel with a smaller front section that may open. Complex installation.

Beyond the initial cost, consider potential long-term issues. A poor installation can lead to water leaks, wind noise, and rattles. It can also void portions of your factory warranty and may negatively impact the car's resale value if not done perfectly. For most people, choosing a car that already has a factory-installed sunroof is a safer and often more cost-effective path.

[MatteoLee]

Honestly, I looked into it for my SUV and decided against it. The quotes were around two grand for a decent sliding one. It's not just the price—it's cutting a hole in your roof. If it's not done perfectly, you're looking at leaks and weird noises down the road. I'd say save your money or put it toward a model that comes with one from the factory. It's just cleaner and comes with a warranty.

[KennedyAnn]

As a car guy who's seen a lot of mods, an aftermarket sunroof is a risky move. You're modifying the car's structural integrity. The cost is one thing ($1,500+ for a good job), but the real question is who's doing it. You need a specialist, not just any shop. A bad install can ruin the car's value and cause endless headaches. It's one of those things that's better factory-original.

[Neil]

We decided not to for our family car. The installer was very clear: it's a major job. The cost was high, but what worried me more was the potential for leaks and the effect on safety. He said it could interfere with the side-curtain airbags. For us, the risk wasn't worth the reward. We use a roof-mounted cargo box instead when we need extra space, and it was a fraction of the price.

[Judith]

If you're set on doing this, your first step is to get multiple quotes from reputable specialty shops. Don't go for the cheapest option; ask to see examples of their work. The price should include a warranty on both the parts and the labor. Be prepared for it to take a couple of days. And honestly, factor in the potential hit to your car's resale value. Some buyers will see it as a negative, not a positive.