homebrewz 11 Posted June 21, 2020 I have a 2003 Forester XS and the sunroof will not open. I removed the glass and with the glass off, the mechanism works with no problem. However, with the glass installed the sunroof will only open about half an inch. I think there might something obstructing the glass at the back end, closest to the rear of the car, but I can't figure out what it could be. The sunroof was stuck partly open last time it worked and I had to gently coax it back into position and since then it won't open. I'm wondering if this is a common problem with a simple fix, or perhaps the electric motor is worn out to the point where it won't move the glass. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
GeneralDisorder 1790 Posted June 21, 2020 Likely will have to replace the entire assembly. They are cheap plastic and cable driven. When they wear out they are garbage. Used is not a good option and they sell no repair parts. Get a new sunroof assembly from the dealer while you still might be able to. GD Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
homebrewz 11 Posted June 22, 2020 It's getting hung up when the glass dips down to be retracted into the roof. The glass seemed to want to move slightly so I loosened the nuts and gently pushed it. I was able to open the sunroof completely, but it still gets hung up at that point when it reopens. I was hoping it was just an alignment problem, but perhaps the motor is too weak to fully retract the glass? I've read where someone replaced the motor brushes and got it working again. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
GeneralDisorder 1790 Posted June 22, 2020 You can buy the motor separate. That's the only part you can get independently. GD Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
idosubaru 1957 Posted June 22, 2020 I’ve replaced entire outback sunroof assemblies with used for $75, easy, and lasted years with no failures. Never done a Forester. It may be that not many people deal with micromanaging For sunroofs, wouldn’t be surprised if you get very limited feedback on diagnosing and repairing the unit. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
homebrewz 11 Posted June 22, 2020 Thanks. At this point I'm wondering if its the motor getting weak and not being able to retract the sunroof. I also took apart the passenger door yesterday to lubricate the window track and it didn't make a difference in performance. The window motors on these vehicles seem to get weak with age and then stop working. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
GeneralDisorder 1790 Posted June 27, 2020 The door window motor transmissions rust to the point of seizing. It's a known issue and lubricating the tracks won't fix the transmission. GD Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
