How Much Does It Cost To Install A Sunroof?

Installing a sunroof for a car costs between $300 and $2,500, depending on the style, the make & model of your vehicle.

Meanwhile, labor costs for an aftermarket installation range from $300 – $1000.

Stay tuned as I break down the costs, talk about features for each sunroof type and provide helpful suggestions to ensure the sunroof installation is completed successfully.

Types of sunroof

Sunroofs have lots of types and styles, each with its own level of enjoyment. Automobile Fandom describes five varieties of sunroofs.

Pop-up sunroofs offer a manual tilt functionality, allowing for an incremental change while you ride. 

Spoiler-style sunroofs open by sliding across and along the roof while providing aerodynamics by design, which aims to reduce wind noise. If you’re looking for something more integrated with your vehicle, inbuilt sunroofs offer a flush design and slide and tilt open, allowing a slightly different view. 

Top-mount sunroofs offer a sliding over the roof car that has a convertible feel, just about any vehicle will be able to accommodate. 

Lastly, there are amazing panoramic sunroofs that will open across the cabin, providing lots of sunlight inside and some solar models that will produce energy from the sun’s rays. 

How Much To Install A Sunroof: Cost Breakdown

You can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $2,500 to install a sunroof in your car. The ultimate cost depends very much on your selection and what kind of setup you have on your vehicle. 

Here is a cost breakdown based on the sunroof type:

A pop-up is the least expensive option at $300 to $800, while a spoiler-style sunroof will land in the middle from $600 to $1,100. 

Moonroofs, which are the powered glass sliders built into many new cars, average $1,000 to $2,000, while panoramic-style sunroofs would range from $1,500 to $2,500 (higher if purchased as a factory option).

Solar panel sunroofs, with their environmentally friendly technology, would run similarly to the panoramic-style between $1,500 and $2,500. 

If your vehicle is not pre-wired for a sunroof, there is likely an additional aftermarket labor charge of $300 to $1,000. It could be cheaper for a luxury model. 

Then we step into repairs. Small repairs may cost $100-$200 & full glass or motor replacements would add $300 or more.

Sunroof Vs Moonroof: What’s the Difference?

Most people use “sunroof” and “moonroof” interchangeably, but there are important differences that could influence your decision. A sunroof is a solid panel that you can tilt or remove for ventilation, while a moonroof usually is transparent with a tinted glass panel.

You could also slide or tilt open the moonroof, but it normally comes with a sunshade.

Originally, Noel Mobbs of London commercialized (and patented) the sunroof in 1925 for the first time, using the trade name “Pytchley”.

Interestingly, the “moonroof” was a term coined by a Ford marketing guru in the 1970s through a deal with the American Sunroof Corporation. He added a tinted panel of glass that slid back with the push of a button. (Source: Curbside Classic)

Now it may be difficult for some to distinguish between a sunroof and a moonroof, but this is what I always say to my friends or even clients about how they look different-

A traditional sunroof may still be a manually operated metal panel that is removable, while a moonroof is always a powered, tinted glass panel that slides into the interior roof of the car. It will usually also contain a fabric sunshade to block sunlight.

How Much To Install An Aftermarket Sunroof?

If your car didn’t come with a sunroof, you can add an aftermarket sunroof for $300 for a very basic pop-up, and $2,000 for a panoramic-style moonroof.

Local auto glass repair shops can help with the installation, which could take about 60 to 90 minutes.

The only thing you want to be wary of is finding an installer with a professional background, so that you can avoid damaging any support beams or the structural integrity of the roof. Don’t forget to inquire if they provide a warranty for their work in case there is a problem. 

Aftermarket accessories can potentially boost the car’s resale value by $500 to $2,000. Just be sure that the cut is not too excessive. Otherwise, there may be issues with the frame of the car.

A lot of my clients tell me they don’t prefer aftermarket sunroof installation. But it’s a good way to add some value to the car if done right.

The pros are that you have the feeling of open air inside the car. The cons may be loss of headroom or increased maintenance should you experience a leak.

Also Read: Average Cost to Maintain a Car

Frequently Asked Questions

Can any car get a sunroof? 

Most cars can get a sunroof with the help of a professional, but some designs are trickier than others.

What is the approximate time required to install a sunroof? 

Depending on the expertise and tools, it typically takes around 60 to 90 minutes to install a sunroof.

Does adding a sunroof provide resale value? 

Yes, installing a sunroof can add anywhere from $500 to $2,000 when you are ready to sell your car.

Is it worth it to add a sunroof? 

Yes, if you enjoy open-air driving and don’t mind the cost and maintenance. You could recover some of that cost in resale value.

Can a dealership add a sunroof? 

Some dealerships can add a sunroof, but most aftermarket installs are done by specialty shops. So, it’s better to consult your dealer.

How difficult is it to install a sunroof in a car? 

It is difficult, as it requires precise cutting and wiring, and is usually better left to the professionals.

Does a sunroof affect insurance costs? 

Installing a sunroof could affect insurance costs. Notify your insurance provider, because in some cases premiums could increase slightly due to added value or repair costs.

Do cars with sunroofs get hotter? 

They can, especially with larger glass areas, but a sunshade or air conditioning can usually mitigate it.

Final Say

A sunroof is more than a car upgrade. It adds a touch of outdoors to your everyday driving, whether it’s a quick tilt for fresh air or the ability to enjoy the panoramic view, enjoying the stars above! 

Under the right care, the sunroof upgrade may pay off when you sell your car. It’s also a matter of preference & most car owners don’t want the hassle of installing an aftermarket sunroof. 

Be smart, take your time to find a respected provider, and weigh the costs against the happiness it will provide you in the meantime.