What causes the noise between the Passat sunroof and roof lining?
2 Answers
Possible causes include aging sunroof seals or gaskets, loose sunroof screws, and dust particles in the sunroof tracks. Aging sunroof seals or gaskets: Sunroof seals exposed to prolonged rain or sunlight can easily deteriorate. Rubber conditioner can temporarily restore seal performance. Open the sunroof fully and spray conditioner on the seals. Of course, a more direct solution is to replace the sunroof seals. Loose sunroof screws: Loose screws can cause noise in both the roof lining and sunroof, and may even pose a risk of sunroof detachment. The solution is simple - locate the sunroof screws and tighten them.
I've been driving a Passat for over ten years, and the creaking sound from the sunroof and roof area is quite common! It's mostly caused by dust, small leaves, and debris accumulating in the track gaps, making noise when rubbing during bumps. Last time, my car had the same issue—water didn't dry completely after opening the window on a rainy day, leading to rusted and loose parts causing the noise. Later, I took it to the shop where they cleaned it thoroughly and replaced the sealing strip, fixing the problem. I recommend paying extra attention to cleaning the sunroof tracks during car washes and regularly applying silicone-based lubricant to prevent sticking. Delaying repairs might cause the entire frame to deform, making it noisier and affecting the seal, which could lead to leaks—a bigger headache. Safe driving is the priority, and developing a habit of regular checks can save you a lot of trouble.