Jeep Grand Cherokee Panoramic Sunroof Problems- How to Fix

There are various Jeeps in the market having top-notch quality sunroofs but, the sunroof of Jeep
Grand Cherokee is worth-to mention. They are capable of being operated in a manual along in an
automatic way with the help of a remote control. Sunroofs are helpful in a way that they allow a
driver to breathe fresh air and to enjoy their traveling on the highway. In some cases, panoramic
sunroof has been seen to equip with some problems which should be fixed to avoid
inconvenience.

The common problems associated with panoramic sunroof of Jeep Grand Cherokee
includes the opening and closing issue of sunroof, issue with wire harness and dual lock,
issues due to motor failure or software bug, or due to accumulation of dust and debris on
its surface. These problems can be fixed by replacing the worn out components and
through cleaning of panoramic sunroofs.

Common Problems Associated with Panoramic Sunroofs:

1. Opening and Closing Issue with Sunroof:

If your Jeep Grand Cherokee is showing issues in the opening and closing of sunroof, it clearly
indicates a problem with the jeep top. It is recommended not to waste time in looking and
confirmation of other symptoms and rush to mechanic for fixing this issue.

2. Production of Noise in Sunroof of Jeep:

The presence of unusual noise and bad sound from the panoramic sunroof during its opening and
closing indicates a clear trouble with rooftop. There are various reasons behind the noise
production in panoramic sunroof which could include the improper sealing or poor installation of
sunroof in the vehicle.

3. Issue with Wire Harness and Dual Lock:

Wire harness related to sunroof is a common problem with it in which this system of wire
harness is connected to the roof and system present in between the front and back seat of Jeep.
The wires related to harness are like a cable cover for it.

These electric cables are linked to control panel and sunroof and help to keep the central
electrical line in a safe position. Two common issues are seen which create problem with wires
including:

 The wires might have dislocated from the settings of factory

 Wires have worn out due to excessive usage.
Other than this, problem due to dual lock also create panoramic sunroof problems. There are
about five dual lock fasteners in the sunroof of Jeep Grand Cherokee.

If you own a dual-pane roof, then there should be up to 14 fasteners in it which help in moving
the top effortlessly in their rubbered panel. When these fasteners of any of these fasteners fail in
engaging, they end up in producing an irritating noise which hinders the working of sunroof.

4. Issues due to Motor Failure and Software Bug:

There is a robust motor in the roof of Jeep Grand Cherokee which has an integrated control
system in it. This motor is usually located near the headliner of roof in Cherokee models.

There is system software which is helpful in operating the motor and makes sure that the sunroof
opens and close properly without any interruption. If the issue is due to motor, then it is
recommended to replace the motor of your Jeep Grand Cherokee.

After fixing the motor issue, if you still face problem with your sunroof then the issue can be due
to a software bug. A software bug hinders the passage of commands which results in malfunction
in sunroof.

5. Accumulation of Dust and Debris:

Due to excess usage and driving in regions of dust and steady rain, there are chances that debris
and dirt starts to accumulate on the sunroof and other areas of Jeep. If the Jeep is not properly
maintained and cleaned on regular basis, this accumulation of dust and debris can make the
closing and opening movements of sunroof a bit slow than usual.

There are chances that dust might start to accumulate in the narrow areas of your Jeep. There are
various narrow areas like window panes, opening and closing areas of doors and sunroof where
dust and dirt can accumulate and disturb their working. It is better to keep the sunroof clean from
dirt accumulation so that it does not hinder the speed of their opening and closing.

6. Extra Weight on Sunroof:

Most of the off-road enthusiasts are keen to their bikes and kayaks along with them for extra
adventure for off-roading.

As we know, these items cannot fit inside a jeep or other vehicle, so they carry these vehicles at
the sunroof or rooftop. Placing such heavy vehicles on the sunroof can create problems in them
which can disrupt it’s working.

Fixing the Sunroof Problems in Jeep Grand Cherokee:

You can follow these initiatives for fixing the sunroof problems in your Jeep Grand Cherokee.
1. Replace the Wire Harness:

If the problem in your sunroof is due to wire harnessing, then it is recommended to replace it
with a new one to fix the issue. Most of the wiring harness are supposed to be 5-7 years old
which can worn out due to dislocation and usage.

If the problem with wire harness is due to dislocation, you can try to fix it at its previous position
by using glue. But if the wire harness is damaged, you can seek help from an automobile service
store or can purchase them from online sources too.

2. Tightening the Dual Locks:

If your sunroof of Jeep Grand Cherokee is facing issues due to loose dual locks, it is mandatory
to tighten them. You can tighten the dual-locks yourself too. Inspect the locks and check out
which dual lock is loose.

Use a screwdriver for fastening the locks and keep the head of screw at right place during
pressing. It is recommended not to put excessive weight and pressure during tightening the locks
as it can break the points where top locks can be fixed. Check the squeaking of locks after fixing
them and test the sunroof too.

3. Changing the Sunroof Motor:

Sunroof motor shows some issues too which is a least expected problem faced by the owners of
Jeep Grand Cherokee. Sunroof motor is responsible for operating the panoramic sunroof in
Jeeps. If there is an issue with the motor, it can only be fixed by repairing or replacing the motor.

This replacement cost around $100-$200 and depends on the model of Jeep Cherokee.
Sometimes, it seems that motor has failed but the issue can be due to overheating of motor.

In such case, you can contact the manufacturers for fixation if you own a security warranty or
can seek help from an automobile expert.

4. Fixing the Control Panel Issue:

Besides the software related issues in the Jeep Grand Cherokee, there are chances of developing
the control panel hardware issues in Jeep.

This is a rare issue but it can be fixed through seeking help from the manufacturer. If the issue in
the sunroof is software-related, a person has to wait for the update from the manufacturer’s side.

5. Fixing the Corrosion and Rust:

If you observe the accumulated dust or rust on the surface or sides of your sunroof, it is
recommended to get it cleaned as soon as possible to avoid jamming.
You can clean the corrosion and rust by using rust or dirt removing sprays. These sprays help to
instantly remove the existing buildups from your sunroof of Jeep. Other than this, you can use a
rust reformer too for removing away the rust.

6. Voltage Regulator:

There is a voltage regulator in the Jeep Grand Cherokee which is helpful to regulate the battery’s
voltage. This regulator ensures the maintenance of battery at specific voltage and prevents the
battery from overcharging and undercharging.

Voltage regulator is responsible for providing an adequate amount of voltage to the panoramic
sunroofs and electrical components of the Jeep. If there is an issue in the working of your
sunroof, it is recommended to check the working of voltage regulator.

7. Fixing Weak Battery:

Battery is an essential component of any vehicle including the Jeep Grand Cherokee. It helps in
starting the vehicle and maintains its acceleration and braking system.

The main source that provides power and energy to the electrical components of the Jeep is
battery which is included in the panoramic sunroof. If there is a bad battery in your vehicle, it
will eventually create issues for sunroof too.

It is advisable to recharge your battery of Jeep which will help in working. But if after
recharging, still the battery doesn’t starts, then it might need replacement with a new one.

8. Using roof racks:

As mentioned above that there are various off-road enthusiasts who prefer to carry their off-
roading bikes and kayaks along with Jeeps to get an extra thrill of adventurous off-roading
terrains.

It is advisable to place a roof rack cross bar on the sunroof in which you can carry your other
vehicles. It is bad thing for sunroof to place extra weight on it so an extra rack will eventually
help you to carry the heavy products.

9. Changing the Ground Cable:

There re ground cables associated with the Jeep Grand Cherokee which needs replacement from
time to time. It is better to always keep an eye on the ground cable of your jeep to check that
either the jeep is working properly or not.

Ground cables help in protecting the vehicle from several electrical issues. It is better to change
the ground cables linked with your sunroof beforehand to avoid inconvenience.
Resetting the Panoramic Sunroof of Jeep Grand Cherokee:

Sunroof switch It is recommended to close the glass panel of your sunroof and then
turn switch of sunroof panel.
Push button After first step, next comes the pressing of ‘CLOSE’ button to the
close position. This button is on the sunroof switch of your vehicle.
It will require only about ten seconds and the process will start
smoothly.
Sliding glass panel Next comes the step with the sliding of glass panel. Sliding glass
panel is tilted and moves automatically towards the hard stop.
Closing the push button Next comes the release of ‘CLOSE’ button to the close position.
Hold this button for about five seconds and release.
Calibrating the sunroof The sunroof panel opens and close to their full position till you hold
down the button after releasing its close position. It is then
recommended to release button at the last step which will easily
calibrate the panoramic sunroof of your Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What are some of the disadvantages of panoramic sunroof? During the summer days, the
added glass in the panoramic sunroof causes the interior of vehicle to become warm. In winter
days, the condensation on the window of roof causes the moisture to drip in the cabin.

What are some of the major issues of Jeep Grand Cherokee? The major issuess with Jeep
Grand Cherokee includes the irregular electronic shifting, stalling of engine during driving,
failed alternator and malfunction in the ignition switch.

What are some of the cause due to which sunroof stops working? Sunroofs often stop
working due to a broken fuse, fault in switch or due to a dead motor. The general wear and tear
of the vehicle or accumulation of dust in gears can hinder the working of sunroof. Other than
this, if the issue is due to electrical motor or components, it can be fixed through help of a
technician.

Is it possible to repair the panoramic sunroof? It is not a safety option to repair the panoramic
sunroof. But still, this issue can be handled through help of an automobile expert.

How can a person maintain the panoramic sunroof of their vehicle? The panoramic sunroof
can be maintained through following means:

 It is advisable to change the oil of your vehicle after every 3-5000 miles.
 It is recommended not to blow the gasket. Most of the sunroofs of vehicle are made up of
rubber gasket with a panel that keeps them sealed and tight.
 Keep the roof drains clean and always keep the moving parts of vehicle greased with grease
or oil.

Which models of Jeep Grand Cherokee are not considered suitable for off-roading? The
models of Jeep Cherokee from the years 2014, 2015 and 2016 are not considered suitable for off-
roading. Customers have reported various issues in these models due to which these are not
considered suitable.

Why does the panoramic sunroof does not close properly? There are various reasons due to
which panoramic sunroof does not close. These reasons include the presence of a bad fuse, bad
motor or a bad battery. You can replace these items with a new one to deal this issue of
panoramic sunroof.

Is it possible to open the fixed panoramic sunroof? Not all the panoramic sunroofs are fixed.
Most of the sunroofs have the option of opening in them. These sunroofs are extra-long in length
and are open-able. These sunroofs can be split into two sections in which one part if fixed while
the other can be slide and tilt away.

What is the average cost of panoramic sunroof? The average cost of panoramic sunroof falls
in the range of $1000-$3000. The pop-up sunroofs for the vehicles cost in between range of
$400-$900. While, moon-roofs costs for about $1000-$2000 on average.