Is your Ford F150 sunroof not closing properly? I understand that can really be frustrating! Don’t be stressed out!
The issue can be caused by certain reasons, and you can easily address them to prevent further damage.
Most of the time, the Ford 150 sunroof does not close due to broken or stuck tracks. However, in some cases, it can be simple obstructions in the track, switch or fuse issues, or, potentially, cables are stretched.
Whatever the reason is, in today’s guide, I’ll help walk you through every pinpoint of the issue and offer you practical solutions to fix it. Just read on!
Note: The issue is found in the following categories of the F150 models: 2016–2019 Ford F-150, and 2015–2019 Ford F-150 with the panoramic Vista Roof.
5 Reasons Why Ford F-150 Sunroof Won’t Close
The main and most common reason for the Ford F-150 sunroof not closing is the broken or jammed track. However, there can possibly be other issues like obstacles in the track, damaged cables, and switch or fuse issues.
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Broken or Jammed Track/Guide | Check for broken guides and rails. Try to manually close it. Replace the track if needed. |
| Debris or Broken Plastic Inside the Track | Check the track and clean it to ensure free movement. |
| Switch and Fuse | Inspect the sunroof switch and fuse. Replace them if they are unresponsive. |
| Damaged or Stretched Cables | Check the cables and replace them if it is damaged. |
| Other Potential Issues | Check the motor and glass brackets. Seek professional help for an efficient resolution. |
1. Broken or Jammed Track/Guide
When you are experiencing an issue with the sunroof, a good point to start is to check the track. In my experience, the problem comes down to the broken or jammed track.
Typically, these guides are made of plastic and can snap over time. You know when it breaks, the panel starts binding or tilting.
That’s because it becomes unable to glide evenly along the rails, making the sunroof stop or reverse direction. Moreover, it can also happen that the broken small plastic pieces are stuck inside the truck.
So, it’s wise to check the track’s visible damage and loose debris before moving on to electrical components.
In the Ford 150, there is no built-in manual backup method to close the sunroof. If you need a quick fix, you can try to manually close it.
- Step 1: Drop the rear of the headliner of your car
- Step 2: From the Ford F-150 sunroof, locate and unbolt the motor
- Step 3: After that, you have to push it to the closed position.
If the sunroof still won’t close, the track will need to be replaced.
2. Debris or Broken Plastic Inside the Track
In some cases, the cause of the problem can be simpler than you think.
Leaves, dirt, or pieces of broken plastic from the roof system can become stuck in the panel. The obvious result? It will stop moving!
It’s a quick fix if the obstruction in the track is the reason!
Check and clear debris from the track. Open and close the sunroof and check whether it is working well now.
Still not working? Then, move ahead to inspect other probable problematic sunroof parts like cables or switches.
3. Switch and Fuse Issue
One other thing that I suggest checking is the sunroof switch and fuse.
If the switch does not function correctly or respond when you press it, it may have failed or may be failing. You will need to replace it now.
Also, don’t forget to check the fuse. A blown-out fuse can completely prevent the sunroof from functioning.
So, inspect the sunroof fuse in the fuse box and replace it with a new one if needed.
You should also try pressing the switch multiple times before replacing it to see by luck whether it works out!
4. Damaged or Stretched Sunroof Cables
Well, when you are struggling with the sunroof that is refusing to close, there is a good chance of damaged cables.
In such cases, the cables that pull the glass lose tension or get damaged. It prevents the proper sliding of the sunroof of your Ford vehicle.
If that’s the case, it may require full replacement.
5. Other Potential Issues
Apart from the things mentioned above, there can be some other potential causes, such as the sunroof motor.
It is generally attached to the regular assembly and makes the sunroof open or close. So, ultimately, a failed motor can only do one thing—prevent the sunroof from moving!
If it fails, the switch won’t work as well, and you can expect water intrusion into the vehicle! Replace it to fix the issue.
One more notable thing: Ford acknowledged a defect in some Ford F150 models, such as the 2015-2019 F-150 equipped with a Vista roof opening panel.
They are known to have defective glass brackets that can cause the glass to bind, rattle, or stay stuck open or closed.
If you have one of those models and are experiencing the issue, you can try out the following.
Try moving the sunroof to the vent position using the switch.
- If it works, you can replace just the glass brackets.
- If it doesn’t, the problem may lie deeper in the system. You may seek assistance from Ford experts.
Is the sunroof covered under the Ford Extended Warranty?
Yes, Ford’s PremiumCARE extended warranty covers the convenience features of your Ford car. For instance, it includes power windows, sunroofs, mirrors, and door locks.
How much does it cost to fix a Ford Sunroof that won’t close?
Frankly, the cost to fix a Ford sunroof that won’t close varies greatly. You can expect to pay a few hundred dollars for simple repairs to $4,000+ for the extensive replacements.
What is the Ford Panoramic Roof Lawsuit?
Ford Panoramic Roof Lawsuit centers claim on some Ford vehicles. Like the Transit Connect, Escape, and C-Max from 2008 to 2016. They have defective panoramic sunroofs and are reportedly prone to shattering without warning.
Final Words
All in all, if your Ford F-150 sunroof isn’t closing, don’t worry. It’s often an easily fixable issue.
Start by checking the obstruction and then the other possible reasons mentioned above.
If you are unsure what has gone wrong or what you should do, don’t guess. Ask the professionals! They can effectively help restore sunroof functionality.
