One way to fix a leaky sunroof

[93 x_SPORT]

I have been noticing my headliner is slightly damp after it rains real hard. Today it rained all day and on the way home from work it was POURING down rain, like hard. Water actually starting rolling down the pillar inside my car and when I got home I noticed the carpet was very wet too. Ok, time to fix it.

After doing some research on EF, I determined my sunroof or windsheild was probably leaking.

So I tore into my truck and found this:

The picture isn't very good, but if you look close, you can see the drain hose for the sunroof is pulled away from the hose barb.

How I got there:

First I searched and found this:
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=144713&highlight=sunroof+leak

After reading I checked for obstructions and saw none. So I did a test. Open sunroof, pour water into drain hole. The drain holes are in the front corners. I could clearly see it leaking. Time to get in there for a look.

Partial Headliner Removal

First disconnected the pillar plastic. I started all the way at the rear of the piece. The first clip was already broken so that made it easy to get started. There are two more clips holding this piece on.

Next, use a phillips to remove the three screws holding the sunvisor on. Mine had a little electrical connector.

Finally, remove the O-shoot handle. This is held on by (2) 7/32" hex head screws.

Carefully pull the headliner down enough to see the hose and barb.

That's when I found what I found. It appears that the hose might be a little too short, but I was able to reconnect it. If it comes loose again, I may have to try a hose clamp.

I re-did my test and didn't see any leaks. Water poured out all over my garage floor (like it's supposed to).

I haven't put this back together yet (letting it air out), but overall it was easy to do. Wish I would have checked it out sooner, honestly though, I was kind of dreading it.

Anyway, hope it helps someone.

 

[Alaskakid87]

Thanks for the info I will def need to use this for my explorer.

 

[3.7explorer]

Thanks for the write up; I have the same problem. Time to remove the headliner.

 

[93 x_SPORT]

No problem! It was way easier to get to than I thought it would be. Wish I wouldn't have put it off so long now.

Anyway, good luck!

 

[1996BLKBauer]

Same thing happened to me, I took some small hose clamps and clamped all four corners, better then new now, haven't had an issue since.

 

[jimcorton]

Leaking sunroof.

Thanks for the great information!! Sounds like a common problem. I have a 1997 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer. Jim-Reno, NV

 

[J_C]

Another way is to decide if you really need the sunroof to open. I haven't opened it in years and if it began to leak I might just unplug the motor to it and put silicone caulking around it (on the roof) so there's nowhere for water to get in. That may seem drastic but I never saw the point of a sunroof that opens when you have 3 to 5 other windows that do too.

 

[93 x_SPORT]

Another way is to decide if you really need the sunroof to open. I haven't opened it in years and if it began to leak I might just unplug the motor to it and put silicone caulking around it (on the roof) so there's nowhere for water to get in. That may seem drastic but I never saw the point of a sunroof that opens when you have 3 to 5 other windows that do too.

I think they call that a skylight. I like my sunroof when it's not sunny out.

 

[J_C]

^ But what does having it open do that can't be accomplished with a window cracked instead? I mean I consider having the door windows working mandatory but with them working, sunroof opening isn't a priority to me.