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How to manually crank a sunroof motor?

If your car's sunroof is not opening or closing properly, you may need to manually crank the sunroof motor. This can be a quick fix for a malfunctioning sunroof mechanism. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to manually crank a sunroof motor.


Accessing the Sunroof Motor


The first step is to locate the sunroof motor, which is typically located in the headliner or roof of the vehicle. You may need to remove some trim panels or the headliner to access the motor.


Identifying the Manual Crank Mechanism


Once you've located the sunroof motor, look for a small access panel or cover that will allow you to access the manual crank mechanism. This is usually a small, hexagonal-shaped shaft that you can use to manually turn the motor.


Manually Cranking the Sunroof



  • Insert a small, appropriately-sized tool, such as a hex wrench or screwdriver, into the manual crank mechanism.

  • Slowly and carefully turn the crank in the direction needed to open or close the sunroof.

  • Monitor the sunroof's movement and stop cranking once it has reached the desired position.


It's important to note that manually cranking the sunroof should only be a temporary solution. If the sunroof continues to malfunction, you may need to have the sunroof motor or other components repaired or replaced by a professional.


Safety Considerations


When manually cranking the sunroof, be cautious and avoid applying excessive force, as this could damage the mechanism. Additionally, ensure that the sunroof is fully closed before driving the vehicle to avoid any potential safety hazards.


By following these steps, you can successfully manually crank a sunroof motor to temporarily resolve any issues with your vehicle's sunroof.

How much to fix a sunroof that won't open?


The average cost for a Sunroof Motor Replacement is between $810 and $873. Labor costs are estimated between $238 and $300 while parts are typically priced around $572. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.



How do you reset a sunroof motor?


Sunroof resetting procedure:

  1. It is recommended to perform the reset procedure with the vehicle engine running.
  2. Make sure the sunroof glass is in the fully closed position.
  3. Release the switch when the sunroof glass is fully closed.
  4. Push the switch forward until the sunroof glass moves slightly.



Why is my sunroof open not working?


Inoperable sunroofs are usually caused by a dead motor, a broken fuse, or a faulty switch. This could be due to general wear and tear as the vehicle ages, or it could also be as simple as dirt or debris getting stuck in the gears. The good news is electrical issues can be fixed by a trained auto repair technician.



How do I know if my sunroof motor is bad?


A sunroof that won't open, or worse yet, won't close, is usually due to a dead motor, broken fuse, or faulty switch. This can occur from general wear and tear over time, or dirt and debris sneaking into the gears.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.