how much to put a sunroof on a car

[LorenzoRose]

Installing an aftermarket sunroof typically costs between $800 and $4,000+, with the final price heavily dependent on the type of sunroof, your vehicle's make and model, and the quality of the installation shop. A basic pop-up sunroof is the most affordable, while a large, retractable panoramic roof on a complex vehicle will be at the top end. The biggest factor isn't the parts, but the highly skilled labor required for a safe, leak-proof, and quiet installation.

The first major decision is the type of sunroof. A pop-up sunroof simply tilts up and is manually operated. An inbuilt sunroof slides back into the roof panel and is usually power-operated. A top-of-the-line panoramic sunroof features a large glass panel, often extending over the rear seats, and commands the highest price. Your vehicle's roof structure is also critical. Installers must cut into the roof's support beams, which requires expert knowledge to maintain structural integrity. A simple, flat roof on a sedan is easier than a curved or reinforced roof on an SUV or a vehicle with a complex headliner.

Labor costs can easily constitute 50-70% of the total bill. A reputable installer will disassemble the interior headliner, carefully cut the roof, install a reinforcement bracket, seal the unit, and reassemble everything without causing rattles or wind noise. The quality of the sealant and the installer's warranty are paramount to prevent future water leaks. Always choose a certified, experienced installer with strong reviews, even if they charge more. A cheap job can lead to expensive water damage and electrical issues.

Factor	Low-End Cost	High-End Cost	Key Considerations
Pop-Up Sunroof	$800 - $1,500	Manual operation, simple install, less common today.
Standard Inbuilt Sunroof	$1,500 - $2,500	Power-operated, slides into roof, most common type.
Panoramic Sunroof	$2,500 - $4,000+	Large glass panel, complex installation, requires specific vehicle compatibility.
Vehicle Complexity	Low (e.g., standard sedan)	High (e.g., luxury SUV, convertible)	Curved roofs and complex headliners increase labor time and cost.
Labor & Shop Rates	$80 - $100/hr (standard shop)	$120 - $150/hr (dealer/specialist)	The installation can take 6-10+ hours. Expertise is critical for safety and sealing.

[EvangelineLynn]

Honestly, I looked into it for my old Civic. You're probably better off trading for a car that already has one. The quote I got was around two grand for a decent powered one. For that money, you could just put it towards your next car payment and get a model with a factory sunroof, which is guaranteed not to leak. The aftermarket route is a big gamble unless you find a truly amazing installer.

[DiLogan]

As a former detailer, I've seen bad sunroof jobs. The cost isn't just the installation. Think long-term. A cheap seal can fail, leading to water stains on your headliner or worse, mold and electrical problems. A high-quality installation from a certified specialist might cost $2,500-$3,500, but they'll warranty their work. Factor that peace of mind into the price. It's not just a hole in the roof; it's a major modification.

[EvanLynn]

If you absolutely want one, get at least three quotes from highly-reviewed specialty shops. Ask to see examples of their work on vehicles similar to yours. The price should include a full warranty on both parts and labor against leaks for at least a year. Don't just go for the cheapest bid; a proper job involves cutting structural metal and ensuring perfect sealing. It's a precision task.

[CodyMarie]

My dad always said, "Buy the car with the features you want; don't add them later." A factory sunroof is engineered and tested with the vehicle's chassis from the start. An aftermarket addition, while doable, can affect resale value and may not integrate perfectly. For the $3,000 it might cost, you could upgrade to a trim level that includes a sunroof plus other premium features, which is a smarter financial move.