Not Normal for Sunroof (archive)

Your sunroof is either out of allignment, jamming, or its memory settings are not being retained, or a combination of the above. If it's set correctly it should smoothly seat itself with the rear edge about 1/32" proud of the roof and the font flush regardless of how long you hold the button. You should never have to manipulate the switch to get it to close/seat properly.

To adjust its seating you will need torx drivers (star-like pattern screwdriver tip). Place the sunroof in the rear up position by pushing the adjustment button straight up. From outside the car, you can access the six (3 per side)torx head screws that secure the sunroof panel to its carriers. Loosen the screws as necessary to allow the closure mentioned.

If you get a serious gap, not just a seating issue, try re-setting the memory unit. Disconnect it for a minute or two (under the center cover holding the switch), then re-connect it and I believe (its been a while) hold the switch forward for something like 8-seconds (does anyone remember the procedure?). The sunroof will re-learn its correct closed position. If its doesn't close properly afterward, the memory unit may be shot or not getting power. Or, the mechanism may be jammed.

The mechanisms on these sunroofs wear out unless regularly cleared of debris and lubed. When they do, friction builds up in the tracks and raising mechanism and the sunroof will stick and eventually break one of it's supports. Lube the tracks, cables and gears with Vaseline (not WD-40) with the rear open. If it still hangs up, you're into a full disassembly, cleaning, lube, and possible replacement of the cables and connected mehanism. It's about a 4hr job for a skilled mechanic.

For those without current problems. Keep an eye on how smoothly it extends and retracts. If there's any sign of hesitation and you don't have a record of the last time your sunroof was cleaned and lubed, consider getting it done. If not attended to it will eventually wear out and cost you the full lube/cleaning amount, and at least the additional cost of the cable mechanisms, or worse, a burned out motor. I did mine at about 80k miles due to a broken right side cable mechanism.

Hope this is helpful.

GregK
1991 850/6 (http://www.mindspring.com/~gkovecses/850.htm)
1988 M5

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Re: Not Normal for Sunroof Chorobe 19:09 5/10/2000 (0)

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