Many consumers want this equipment, but forget that maintenance must be done to avoid unpleasant problems
The sunroof, especially the panoramic one, suffered prejudice, but today it is almost a mandatory item for some consumers. This includes the used market, where cars with this equipment have better resale and spend less time in the yard.
An example of the popularity of the sunroof is in the GWM Haval H6. The SUV was launched in versions with and without the equipment. Due to lower demand, the model without the panoramic roof was discontinued. Today the entire range of the brand offers the item, with the exception of the Poer pickup.
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Despite the enjoyment of having a large sunroof and being able to make the cabin more airy, this equipment requires periodic maintenance. Even if you have bought the car equipped in this way just thinking about resale, it is not recommended to neglect this care.
An unmaintained sunroof can go bad, which is expensive to repair. Or worse, it can cause infiltrations in the cabin, which lead to bad odor and proliferation of fungi, bacteria and mites. Here’s how to take care of it.
The cleaning service of the sunroof channels is part of the periodic inspections of the vehicle. Each automaker has its recommendation, ranging from 6 to 12 months between each service.
It is necessary to carry it out because the roof is one of the most exposed parts of the vehicle. Dust, dry leaves and other items fall there and can clog the gutters.
With them obstructed, the motor generates more effort to move the glass. The gutters also serve to drain the water, directing it to the ground. If drainage is impeded, seepage will begin to appear in the cabin.
These precautions, which take care of less than R$ 500, avoid breaking the sunroof, which can cost more than R$ 10 thousand
It is ideal for the driver to lubricate the moving parts of the sunroof along with cleaning. The workshops offer the services together.
The idea is that the electric motor transports the glass without great effort, extending the useful life of the piece.
As it is an opening in the most exposed part of the car, the sunroof has a drain system so that water does not accumulate in the region and a reinforced seal. Over time there will be an accumulation of dust, leaves and other small debris in the place.
If cleaning is not done, water will infiltrate the mechanism or inside the bodywork. This can result in electrical problems, cabin infiltrations, bad smells, and even mold formation.
The risk exists even if the equipment is not used, as the seal can dry out and let water and dirt in. Therefore, this service should be treated as part of periodic maintenance, such as changing the engine oil.
As we showed in the introduction, the sunroof is highly desired in the new and used car market. When buying a second-hand one, even if it is semi-new, it is necessary to inspect the equipment to ensure that it will not have problems.
Check if the revisions were made at the authorized network and check the notes (if they are next to the manual) if the maintenance of the sunroof was included. If it is an older car, ask the seller.
When evaluating the vehicle, open and close the sunroof several times to see if it is working properly. The glass needs to open smoothly, without jerks, and without locking in the way.
Also check that the ceiling lining does not have stains, which may indicate infiltration. It is recommended not to purchase cars with the equipment installed outside, especially models that have never offered a sunroof.
One way to have more lighting in the cabin or see the stars at night is with a fixed panoramic roof. Today it is possible to find this type in the Fiat Pulse, the Fastback, the Peugeot 208, the BYD Seal, the Volvo EX30 and several electric vehicles.
As it is only a fixed sheet of glass, there are no drains, rails and electrical mechanisms to worry about. The owner only needs to take care of the glass, which is similar to what should be done on windows.
Due to the frequent heat, there is the possibility of installing a solar control film to prevent the car from turning into a greenhouse quickly.
