Is Sunroof Noise a Common Problem?
3 Answers
Sunroof noise is not a common problem. Here is relevant information: 1. Causes: Sunroof noise is mainly caused by insufficient daily maintenance. A car sunroof not only enhances the vehicle's appearance but also serves multiple functions, so regular maintenance is recommended. 2. Maintenance: Regularly clean with fine talcum powder to extend the lifespan of the sealing ring. The moving parts of the sunroof are made of low-maintenance materials, so mechanical parts should be periodically cleaned with oil or lubricant. It is recommended to clean every two months. Prolonged use without regular cleaning can wear out sunroof components. Regularly clean around the slide rails to prevent sand accumulation and extend the sealing ring's lifespan.
I remember my car had a similar issue before, and it wasn't until I talked to an experienced mechanic that I realized sunroof rattling is actually quite common. Especially in cars with panoramic sunroofs—after two or three years, they're likely to start making clicking noises. The root cause is usually dust and sand buildup in the sunroof tracks or aging/deformed plastic sliders. Last time my car's glass creaked over speed bumps, the mechanic used a high-pressure air gun to blow out the tracks and applied some imported grease, which silenced it immediately. He recommended cleaning the track grooves monthly with damp cotton swabs instead of waiting for noises to appear like I did. Since adopting this cleaning routine, my car hasn’t made a sound over 40,000 kilometers—this trick saves way more money than replacing parts outright.
A veteran mechanic who has repaired thousands of cars told me that sunroof rattling is indeed a common issue. The main reason is that the roof panel is the weakest part in terms of steel strength, and the friction between the sunroof frame and the roof sheet metal causes noise when the body twists. Especially in models where the frame is rigidly connected with screws, squeaking noises are more likely to occur. Additionally, after prolonged sun exposure, the rubber seals harden, and the vibration of the glass while driving can produce knocking sounds. I recently helped a neighbor fix this issue—spraying silicone-based conditioner on the seals did the trick. If the noise comes from near the sunroof motor, it’s likely due to dry gears grinding, requiring the headliner to be removed for grease application. That said, the quality of sunroofs in domestic new cars has improved significantly, with better assembly processes.
