With sunroofs, all you need is a press of a button to feel the fresh air outside. It’s liberating to have this provision available while driving. According to car industry analysts, sunroofs are already becoming a piece of standard equipment on an increasing number of vehicles. However, if you prefer having the sunroof open while driving, you might think about how to keep it in good condition. This leaves you wondering, “Can cars with sunroofs go through car washes?”.
Does getting a car wash cause the sunroof to leak?
No, the sunroof should not leak during a car wash. With the sunroof open at 60 mph, you won’t notice any rain in your car. Yes, aerodynamics is cool stuff.
Car washes and sunroofs – friends or foes?
Although glass roof panels are designed to keep out water, if not closed properly, car washes can compromise that seal. For most vehicles, you can find a disclaimer in the fine print of your owner’s manual. It specifies that the manufacturer will not be liable for any leaks that may occur during a car wash.
In most touch-less car washes, the sheer volume and water pressure might allow water to get past the seals and into the tray that encircles the glass. In addition, most car wash establishments will have their disclaimer signs. There are water drains in each corner of each tray, but the drains are too small to manage a lot of water at once. When a glass is unintentionally left open, this means trouble. A car wash method that utilizes less water volume and pressure might be a better option for your glass-roofed ride if you insist on automatic car washing methods.
How to maintain your car’s sunroof
Every year, inspect the water drains to ensure they’re working properly. Leaf fragments or pine needles can readily obstruct the passage of air currents. To check for leaks, open the roof and carefully pour a small amount of water into the tray.
It is best if both the front and rear drains leave at the undercarriage’s outermost edge, just behind the wheels on each. Compressed air is helpful in cleaning blocked drains safely and effectively. Use a can of compressed air provided by most electronic merchants. If you don’t trust your trigger finger on an air compressor hose to produce a mild burst.
Removable roof panels on Jeep Wranglers and other vehicles with sunroofs are subject to the same car wash warnings. With these, most rain stormwater, but not full-pressure car washes, can be kept out of the windows. And of course, if you possess a convertible with a fully retractable soft-top, car washes with high pressure are absolutely out of the question. In the same way, hard-top convertibles can be cleaned with a low-pressure touchless wash if their seals are in excellent condition.
Seasonal silicone lubricant treatment on the sunroof and folding top seals, like any other vehicle weather-seal, can significantly lengthen their lifespan. It helps to protect seals from adhering to metal surfaces, reducing weather cracking and rips.
What are the reasons for a leaky sunroof?
One or more of the following are likely reasons for a leaky sunroof:
- Each of the sunroof’s drain ports towards the front is blocked.
- You may have a warped or misaligned sunroof.
- The combination of seals and the sunroof has a design flaw, or the seals themselves are damaged.
How much does it cost to fix a leaking sunroof?
Debris clogging the drainage system of the sunroof is the most common cause of sunroof leaks. Four to eight separate drain tubes located on the corners of a roof must be physically removed and cleaned if a leak is there. When leaves, mud, and other material block the tubes, water can escape between the seals and over your head while you’re driving. This can be dangerous.
Clogged drainage tubes can produce leaks that are relatively affordable to fix, typically costing less than $1,000 to fix the problem. It’s also possible that the seal is broken, requiring the sunroof to be removed and the seal to be replaced, which can cost more than $500.
Are sunroofs covered under insurance?
Comprehensive auto insurance is necessary for the majority of sunroof and automobile damage. Non-accident damage to the vehicle gets covered under this policy. All of the vehicle’s major systems and components are covered under this policy.
If you are confused about how to find the best car wash for your car, then we’ve got your back. Visit the Way.com website or use the Way app.
Sara Sam may not look like your typical car and finance expert, but don’t let that fool you. With over four years of experience in the industry, she knows all the ins and outs of cars, car insurance, and refinancing. You can trust Sara to help you navigate the often-confusing world of automobiles and financing.
