A leaking sunroof is one of the most common — and most misunderstood — issues we see. Water dripping from the headliner doesn’t always mean the glass itself is the problem. Here are the usual culprits.
Clogged drain tubes. Most sunroofs have small drain channels that carry water away from the seal to the outside of the vehicle. Leaves, dirt, and debris can block these tubes, causing water to back up and drip into the cabin instead.
Worn or cracked seals. Over time, the rubber seal around the sunroof glass loses its flexibility and can crack or shrink, letting water seep through even when the sunroof is fully closed.
Track or motor misalignment. If the sunroof isn’t seating properly when closed, even a small gap can let water in during heavy rain or a car wash.
Damaged glass. Less common, but a stress crack in the glass itself can allow water through, particularly after a temperature swing or a hard jolt.
What to do: Don’t ignore it — water intrusion can damage your headliner, electrical components, and lead to mold. A proper inspection identifies exactly where the water is getting in so you’re not paying to fix the wrong thing.
