Questions and Answers
The Sunroof From Saturn
Q. I have a 1996 Saturn SL and the automatic sunroof is stuck open! I know that the tracks are clear of debris and nothing seems to be sticking so unfortunately I think the motor has died. In fact for a couple months now it seemed to be on its way out.
I just bought a new home so the repair shops quote of $1000.00 bill for a new motor or $200.00 bill for just closing the sunroof is not too appealing. Is there anyway I can get the roof closed on my own without damaging it or the roof of my car?
Much Thanks...
A. There is a procedure for closing the roof manually, but it assumes the sunroof motor works. I guess GM didn't figure the motor would ever go bad. On many other cars there is a crank handle that can be used to close a sunroof.
What you can try is this:
- Remove map lamp lens and bezel assembly from roof console assembly.
- On Coupes, pull sunroof opening trim finish lace away from roof console.
- Remove sun visor inboard anchor clips.
- Remove one screw on left side of roof console. Pull down on roof console and disengage roof console from left locator pin allowing roof console to hang down.
- With the roof console hanging down, disconnect sunroof switch.
- Connect a jumper between cavities "C" and "E" of sunroof switch connector to power sunroof open.
Or...
- Connect a jumper between cavities "A" and "D" of sunroof switch connector to power sunroof closed.
If it does close, then it's the switch that's bad. If not, then it is the motor or cables. Saturn had a problem with the 1996 Saturns where the cables and guide tubes would corrode and freeze up.
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Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA


