Sunroofs are a neat feature that some cars have, either as a standard part of the car’s design or as an aftermarket modification. But what are the benefits of having an extra window on the top of your vehicle, and is it worth the cost?

A sunroof is worth it if you want to enjoy additional natural light and air in your car’s cabin and don’t mind the drawbacks. For example, you’ll have to clean and maintain the sunroof. On top of that, the panel and its components could become damaged over time and require replacements. But, if you don’t mind all that, it’s certainly worth it.

But before you decide on whether or not a sunroof is worth it, read through this guide. You’ll get the complete picture of what a sunroof is and the benefits and drawbacks that it offers you.

What Is A Sunroof On A Car, And What Does It Do?

Before we can explore whether or not a sunroof is worth the money, it’s essential to be on the same page about what a sunroof is.

A sunroof is a glass panel on your vehicle’s roof that allows natural air to enter the cabin from above. In simpler terms, you can think of it as a smaller version of your windscreen but for the top of your car.

Sunroofs come in many different shapes and forms and with different mechanisms. For example, some sunroofs can slide backwards to open up the top of your car. Depending on your model, that sliding mechanism could be hand-operated or even motorised.

Besides that, some sunroof mechanisms allow you to remove it entirely to leave an opening in your car’s roof.

No matter what mechanism it uses, opening the top allows fresh air to enter the vehicle and maximises ventilation. In addition, the sunroof allows your car’s occupants to see the stars in the sky at night.

Of course, it also allows you to close the sunroof to prevent water from coming in when it rains.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of A Sunroof?

Like any other car feature, sunroofs offer a fair share of benefits and drawbacks.

Here are some of the pros of having a sunroof on your car:

Aesthetics: Firstly, having a sunroof on your car adds to the vehicle’s overall aesthetics and style. Some vehicles look significantly more luxurious when it has a sunroof, as not all cars have them.
Ventilation: As you read earlier, sunroofs come with mechanisms that enable you to open them. Doing so will allow plenty of fresh air into the car, maximising ventilation and removing bad smells faster.
Natural Light: Sunroofs also brighten the vehicle’s cabin by allowing more natural light.
Visibility: Of course, sunroofs don’t just let the light come into the car. They also allow people inside the vehicle to look outside and enjoy the added visibility of the sky above.

As wonderful as a car sunroof might sound, you must also understand that it comes with some cons that you’ll want to consider:

More Components: No matter the kind of sunroof you choose, it’ll involve having additional components on your car’s roof. That means having additional things to worry about in the long run, as they could also suffer from the usual corrosion and rusting. That’s especially true with motorised versions, as moving parts might need to be replaced.
Additional Glass Surface: Aside from the additional components, a sunroof also means having an extra glass surface to maintain on your car. Not only does that mean you have a different surface to clean periodically, but it also means an additional surface that could break and potentially need a replacement.
Reduced Headroom: Lastly, a sunroof also takes away from the headroom in your car. Of course, the extent to which that happens depends on the size of your vehicle overall. Putting a sunroof on a small car makes it feel more cramped, though not as much if you’re in an SUV or MPV.

Looking at the above, it’s not easy to say whether a sunroof is worth it. That’s because it’s your choice as a car owner and driver.

Still, considering the pros and cons will empower you to make a better decision, no matter what that decision might be.

Can You Modify A Car To Include A Sunroof?

Yes, you can modify your vehicle and install an aftermarket sunroof. That’s excellent news if the car you want or have doesn’t include a sunroof as a standard feature.

However, you’ll want to consider how you install that sunroof in your car carefully. As you can imagine, the process involves altering your car’s frame. You’ll have to cut out a section of your car’s roof to install a sunroof.

Here’s what the process looks like to modify your car and include a sunroof:

Step 1: Order Sunroof And Dismantle Car Interior

Firstly, you must purchase a sunroof that’s compatible with your vehicle. You can find specialist workshops that already have the sunroof in stock.

When you take your car there, they’ll have to dismantle all interior components, like your car seats, so there’s space to work when installing the sunroof.

Step 2: Measure And Cut The Vehicle’s Roof

Next, the installers will measure your roof and cut a portion out. That portion must be the correct size to fit your new sunroof.

Step 3: Mount And Install Sunroof

Then, they’ll mount your new sunroof and attach it to your vehicle. This part of the process can take quite some time as they’ll need to ensure the sunroof is attached securely to the top of your car.

Step 4: Set Up Sunroof Components

Assuming you purchase a sunroof with electric components like motors, they’ll also need to be set up. For instance, the motor must be wired to your car’s electrical system, and the installer must conveniently set up any other controls for you.

Step 5: Reinstall The Interior

Lastly, the installer must reinstall all the interior components removed earlier in your vehicle. Then, the installer will test the sunroof to ensure everything is safe and functioning.

Bottom Line: Should You Pay Extra For A Car With A Sunroof?

Suppose you’re in the market for a new car and trying to decide whether or not to get one with a sunroof. In that case, you must consider your preferences and whether or not you’re willing to deal with the drawbacks mentioned earlier.

So if you want more natural light and air in your cabin and don’t mind sacrificing the headroom for it, then a sunroof is worth the extra cost!

Sunroofs are just one fascinating part of a modern automobile. If you have passion for cars and their systems, consider studying at TOC Automotive College, Malaysia’s award-winning automotive college!

Is A Sunroof Worth It?