Enjoying the BMW ride with an open sunroof (with open air and sunshine)is an experience on its own. But what if suddenly the sunroof won’t close, then it becomes a very frustrating experience. Especially when the weather turns bad it can become a scary experience, however, don’t be mad.
In this article, we’re gonna look into all the potential causes & solutions for why your BMW sunroof isn’t closing.
5 Common Issues For BMW Sunroof Malfunctioning
Sunroof not closing can be caused by many different reasons but the common issue faced by many BMW owners is stuck debris in the sunroof tracks, sensor, or motor malfunctioning. This results in the sunroof not closing all the way, and while closing, it bounces back. Any type of obstacle in the track can cause the sunroof to not close all the way.
This may be the most common issue but many causes can result in the sunroof not closing. So, let’s discuss the most common causes here:-
1. Electrical Malfunction
One of the primary reasons for sunroof issues is the result of electrical malfunction. The issue can be a blown fuse or a control panel issue. As a result, insufficient electric connection to the sunroof motors stops the sunroof functionality.
To solve this check your BMW manual to locate the fuse and replace it if any fault is found. (if necessary)
Sometimes after replacing a dead battery, it could cause a reset in the electric functions. Where the sunroof needs to be reset.
2. Track Issues
Some track issues like misaligned tracks or some obstacles like debris stuck in the sunroof track could potentially cause a sunroof to malfunction. This is a both common and easy-to-solve issue where simply inspecting the track or sunroof guide could resolve the whole issue.
Sometimes you’ll find the track has been damaged causing distortion, or weather damage like rust or corrosion could be an issue, which has become an obstacle in the sunroof track. And disturbing the proper sunroof functioning.
To fix this issue clear any obstacles in the track and lubricate the tracks properly for smooth sunroof functionality.
3. Sunroof Motor Malfunction
The sunroof motor is the main component that opens or closes the sunroof. If the motor malfunctioned or stopped working then the sunroof won’t function.
You can check for any noises while trying to close the sunroof, it could indicate motor failure. Then you need to access the motor which is located where the sunroof buttons are. Simply remove the cover with a screwdriver, it also varies according to different models.
So, when you get into the motor, you will usually find an Allen key screw, which is used to manually control the sunroof. It will be a little difficult to turn the screw, but the sunroof will close in less than a minute.
If the motor is dead, you need to take your vehicle to a nearby BMW service center or any certified auto shop to get the motor checked and replaced if necessary.
4. Sunroof Deflector Malfunction
The Sunroof deflector uses an air deflector a component used to redirect air when the sunroof opens. And when the air deflector malfunction it could interfere with the sunroof from closing. To fix this issue you have to adjust the deflector position or replace it if found damaged.
5. Sunroof Button Issue
The sunroof button is the control panel that controls the opening and closing of the sunroof. When you press the button but the sunroof isn’t opening or closing properly, it simply means the sunroof button is malfunctioning.
You have to inspect the buttons properly you hear any different clicking noise or damage you need to get it fixed or replaced if necessary.
These are some of the most common causes for the BMW sunroof won’t closing issue. If you bought a used BMW model the previous owner may have neglected any small issue, which now has become a big problem. It can also caused by an Electronic Control Module (ECM) glitch or error.
Also Read: BMW Passenger Restraint System Malfunction: Causes & Fixes
How To Fix The “BMW Sunroof Won’t Close” Issue
Now you’ve seen the possible causes which are disturbing your sunroof functions. But as mentioned earlier sometimes resetting the sunroof fixes the problem for many. So, let’s look at the sunroof resetting process and also other solutions:-
BMW Sunroof Reset Process
BMW sunroof reset also known as BMW sunroof anti-trap function reset is a sunroof reset process for any disturbance in the sunroof functioning.
So, if your sunroof won’t close, or starts to close then reverses then you could try to reset the sunroof. This is a very simple process, just follow the steps:-
- First press and hold the sunroof button for about 15 seconds.
- Then the sunroof will start to move, first it tilts up then opens fully, and then closes fully.
- Release the button after it closes fully, This was the first part of the process.
- Now start the same process again by pressing and holding down the button for another 15 seconds.
- Then again the sunroof will move, first tilt up, then open fully, and then close.
- Now release the button when the sunroof is fully closed.
- After this process, the sunroof resetting is completed.
- Now check the sunroof by single pressing to open then single pressing to close the sunroof.
If your sunroof is now working fine, then it was just a minor problem, which is now solved. But if the sunroof is still not closing then follow along for other solutions.
Check and Replace the Fuse
Another possible cause can be a blown fuse, so first you have to check your fuse if it is blown. Use the vehicle’s manual to locate the fuse box and also find the specific sunroof fuse. If you inspect any damaged fuse, then replace it with the same powered fuse.
If this doesn’t solve you then read along for other solutions.
Sunroof Motor
The sunroof motor could be the cause for the sunroof won’t open and close. Locate the motor which is situated under the sunroof button cover. After locating the motor look for any damage or wear and tear. If you found any damage then this could be the cause, now quickly get your vehicle to any professional technician for assessment of the motor and repair or replacement. (as necessary)
Clean and Lubricate the sunroof Tracks
Over time without any regular cleaning, the sunroof track becomes dirty, and many obstacles like debris and rust disrupt the sunroof’s basic functions. You should use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any dirt or debris to clear the track, then use a suitable lubricant in all sunroof components like track and cable(especially). After removing any dirt/debris and well lubricating the sunroof should work like it used to when newly purchased.
As discussed earlier if damaged the bent deflector of the sunroof could disturb the sunroof’s functionality. In this case, carefully bend the ends of the deflector up a little bit and fix the issue, if you can’t you can contact a professional to do that.
Sunroof Switch Repair
If all the above problems didn’t occur to you, then lastly you’re sunroof switch may be damaged. That leads to issues with opening and closing the sunroof properly. To inspect the problem listen for any clicking sound while using the sunroof. If this is the case you should contact your BMW dealership or any certified repair shop and get the button repaired or replaced if needed.
Manually Closing The Sunroof
When you’ve tried all the above-mentioned fixes but can’t close the sunroof because of a mechanical issue. Then the last option is to manually close the sunroof. To do that remove the sunroof’s access panel to get to the motor, there you’ll find an Allen key use a hex wrench to turn the motor manually. This will close the sunroof completely.
You could use your owner’s manual to know the exact procedure depending on your BMW model.
Read More: BMW 328i Head Gasket Replacement Cost: Fully Explained
Seek Professional Help
If you’re BMW sunroof won’t close, then the first thing you should do is contact any professional repair service, especially if you’re not a confident DIY person. While getting professional help you have several options to choose from.
First, you could contact your BMW dealership, which has specially trained technicians who are experienced in all BMW models. They have genuine parts readily available, and they will guarantee that you’ll receive the best high-quality service and support for your vehicle. They may be an expensive option, however, it’s always a better choice to contact your BMW dealership for quick and ease free service.
Another option is to contact any certified auto repair shop or any trusted independent mechanic who specializes in BMW vehicles. These mechanics have very good in-depth knowledge of all BMW models and they can also provide very cost-effective solutions than BMW dealerships.
To choose a good repair shop always choose the most reputable repair shop near you, and always do your research before choosing any repair shop. Or before choosing any independent mechanic you can also get feedback from fellow BMW owners from your area. If you do your research well and select a reputed BMW expertise mechanic, then you’ll get a great service at a very inexpensive cost.
Conclusion
While discussing your issue with the repair shop or dealership, give them all the relevant information about the sunroof problems you’re facing. Cause sometimes there are some issues which are very small for you but that can be a reason for many big problems. You should give them all the details like the sunroof tilt, won’t open/close, start to close then reverse, or make excess wind noises.
This information will help the mechanics better diagnose and give more detailed repair solutions & advice for maintenance. And, it will better help them decide if any damaged component needs to be replaced according to the owner’s experience.
If you are a DIY person or need to fix your “BMW sunroof not close issue” quickly with minium expertise, then I’ve mentioned all the fixes as well as the cause for the issue. And I hope you can resolve the issue all by yourself if any component isn’t damaged or needs to be replaced. To replace or fix any damaged components it’s always better to contact any professional. Because they have advanced tools and years of experience fixing and replacing every component of BMW vehicles.
When you get professional help you can rest assured that your sunroof will be repaired correctly and you can enjoy the sunroof once again. For the best possible repair experience choose between a BMW dealership or a certified trusted auto repair shop.
Image Credit: Carbuzz
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