5 Reasons Why F150 Sunroof Won’t Close [With Solutions!]

Having a sunroof on an F150 truck is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors while driving. However, it can be a major headache when it suddenly won’t close properly. 

So, why the F150 sunroof won’t close?

The F150 sunroof won’t close happens in 3 ways, tilting but not closing, getting stuck and not closing, and finally rattling but not closing. To solve these, you can replace the switch and cables, replace the motor or clean dirt, and replace the tracks respectively.

But these solutions are not that simple. You need a detailed guide to actually make it happen. So stay with us to know more.

F150 Sunroof Comes Backwards and Won’t Close

Below are the 2 possible reasons why the F150 sunroof only tilts but won’t close and so pay close attention to the solutions suggested. 

Reason: Bad Switch

A bad sunroof switch may prevent the sunroof from closing because the switch may not send the proper signal to the motor to close the sunroof. If the switch is not in the correct position, the motor will not receive the signal to move the sunroof into the closed position.

Symptoms: Retracting Sunroof

When a sunroof has a bad switch, it will not close properly, leading to the sunroof retracting back when it is supposed to be closed. This can cause various problems, including wind noise, water leaks, and sunroof frame or motor damage.

Replacing the switch immediately is highly necessary to prevent any further damage. However, before going there, through professional assistance, test the Ford multifunction switch in a detailed manner. 

Solution: Replace The Switch

To replace the sunroof, use the tools – screwdrivers and electrical tools. 

1. Disconnect the battery and remove the switch or control panel trim panels, if necessary. 
2. Then, disconnect the wiring harnesses from the old switch.
3. Remove the mounting screws or bolts that hold the switch in place.
4. After that, install the new switch in the exact location, connecting the wiring harnesses and mounting screws or bolts.
5. Also, if necessary, reinstall the trim panels.
6. At the end of it, reconnect the battery and test the new switch for proper operation.

With the right tools and instructions, anyone can replace their sunroof switch and ensure they have good quality work done. However, with the help of a pro, things will work better and provide the best functionality.

The cost of replacing a Ford F150 sunroof switch can vary depending on the vehicle’s year and the parts needed. Generally, a new sunroof switch can cost anywhere from $90 to $120, plus labor, which can be an extra $60. 

F150 Sunroof Stuck Being Wide Open And Won’t Close

Reason 1: Broken Motor

A sunroof motor can become broken due to various factors, such as age, exposure to the elements, or a malfunction in the mechanism or wiring.

A broken motor can cause the sunroof to not close due to a lack of power making it wide open. The motor is responsible for providing the power to the sunroof to open and close it. If the motor is broken, the sunroof will not be able to generate the power to close it. 

Symptom: Motor Makes Loud Grinding Noises

A common symptom is a motor making loud grinding noises when attempts are made to close the sunroof. There can also be experiences of the car making clicking noises when turned off, which is a scenario you want to avoid. 

The grinding noise happens due to the internal parts of the motor being stuck and unable to move. And so, the fix involves replacing the motor, but before that, you can try manually closing the sunroof.  

Solution: Replace The Motor If Manual Closing Doesn’t Work

Rather than removing the headliner or drilling a hole in it, you can manually close the sunroof in 10 minutes. 

1. Find two plastic push pins near the interior rear window, pull them out and lower the rear of the headliner a few inches.
2. Using needle nose pliers, grip the head of the pin and pull it back to loosen it. Then with your fingers, tug at the pin until it comes out.
3. Open the rear cab center sliding window and stick your hands through it.
4. Turn a 1/8″ Allen wrench clockwise in the hole on the right of the sunroof motor, which is visible above the headliner, and replace the plastic push pins.

An important note to notice is always to use caution when working with any electrical components and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any repairs.

If this solution doesn’t work, you can replace the motor. The process of removing and installing a new sunroof motor involves several steps and some handy tools. 

The tools needed are a screwdriver, a wrench, and electrical tools such as wire cutters and a soldering iron.

1. First, you will need to remove the old sunroof motor using a screwdriver to unscrew the mounting bolts. 
2. Next, disconnect the electrical wiring from the old motor and remove it from the sunroof. 
3. Install the new motor by attaching the new wiring to the motor and mounting the motor in the exact location as the old motor. 
4. In the last step of the process, use a wrench to secure the mounting bolts and test the motor by opening and closing the sunroof. 

The new, fresh, and securely working motor will improve the mechanical performance of the F150. And thus, it will allow the sunroof to function at its best. 

Reason 2: Dirt And Debris

Dirt and debris can build up around the sunroof’s seal, preventing it from closing correctly. This can be caused by a lack of regular maintenance or by environmental factors such as wind, rain, and tree sap. 

Over time, the accumulation of dirt on the sunroof can cause it to become misaligned. This may even cause other car sensors to get blocked and prompt a malfunction in the internal components. 

Symptoms: Squeaking Noises While Closing The Sunroof

The squeaking noises while closing the sunroof in the F150 can be caused by dirt and debris rubbing against each other. 

Solution: Clean The Dirt And Remove The Debris

The process of removing debris and cleaning the dirt density of Ford F150’s sunroof involves a few steps.

1. First, remove any large debris blocking the sunroof. This can be done using a vacuum or a soft cloth. 
2. When you see that all debris is gone, use a glass cleaner and a soft cloth to clean the sunroof glass until it is free of dirt and dust.
3. A more thorough cleaning may be necessary if there is a significant amount of dirt and grime. Use a soft brush, mild soap, and a water solution for cleaning. 

Once the sunroof is completely clean, you should apply a protective sealant to help prevent future dirt buildup. If the sunroof still doesn’t close, take help from professional service providers. 

F150 Sunroof Rattles And Won’t Close

Reason 1: Broken Tracks

Over time, the sunroof’s tracks can become worn down, which causes the sunroof not to close correctly. The sunroof may become stuck, or the tracks may be too worn for the rollers to grip and move the sunroof properly.

In some cases, the tracks may become bent or otherwise distorted, which can cause the rollers not to move correctly and cause rattling noise. In all of these scenarios, the sunroof cannot properly close and will remain open.

Symptoms: Sunroof Starts Catching

The sunroof moves erratically or makes a grinding noise when it is operated.

Solution: Replace The Tracks

Replacing sunroof tracks involves removing and installing old tracks. You will need a few tools, including a screwdriver, a socket set, a pair of pliers, and a flathead screwdriver.

1. The first step is to remove the screws that hold the tracks in place. Use the screwdriver and socket set to do this. 
2. After removal, carefully lift the old tracks out of the sunroof.
3. Install the new tracks. Make sure that the tracks are lined up correctly. Use the pliers to adjust the tracks if necessary.
4. Secure the new tracks using the screws to finish the process. Also, use the flathead screwdriver to tighten the screws.

Once the new tracks are installed, check to ensure they are correctly aligned and secure. If everything looks good, your sunroof should be ready to use.

Reason 2: Loose Parts

The supporting parts of a Ford F-150’s sunroof can become loose over time, which can prevent the sunroof from closing correctly. In some cases, the sunroof support arms may become bent or warped, which can cause the sunroof not to close completely. 

Loose screws, bolts, or other components could cause this. Sometimes, the sunroof may not be adequately sealed, allowing wind to pass through the gaps and generate bad sounds. There are lots of misconceptions about sunroofs related to this.

Symptoms: Misaligned Glass Panel

There can be rattling sounds that appear when this happens.

Solution: Tighten The Loose Parts

To tighten loose sunroof parts on a Ford F150, essential tools such as a socket wrench, a screwdriver, pliers, and a ratchet set are needed.

1. Remove the sunroof panel to gain access to the interior components. 
2. Locate the sunroof motor and its associated mounting bolts. Use the socket wrench to loosen the mounting bolts and the screwdriver to remove them. 
3. Now, use the pliers to remove any other components and the ratchet set to access the sunroof motor. 
4. In the end, use the socket wrench to tighten the mounting bolts and reattach them to the sunroof motor. 

The motor should be secured after this, so replace the sunroof panel, and your F150 should be ready to go!

F150 Sunroof Won’t Close- Is it Same for All Models?

The sunroof, not the closing problem, is a common issue for Ford F150 models built between 2013 to 2020. The leading cause of this problem is a broken motor, dirt and debris issues, and a broken track.  

These can be identified if you hear squeaking or grinding noises when the sunroof switch is pressed. The solutions are highlighted above with suggestions for replacements or proper cleaning. 

Some 2010, 2015, and 2016 f150 models have experienced sunroof problems with switches not working correctly. The symptoms can be found in terms of the sunroof retracting. And so, the solution is to replace the switch. 

In addition, problems such as broken cables or loose parts have caused the F150 sunroof not to close also. These indications are found across all f150 versions from 2004 to 2020. 

If you see that the sunroof is a bit tilted and stuck, broken cables are to blame, and so the solution is to replace the cables. Some types of bulging may also happen when the sunroof is stuck, mainly due to certain parts that are loose. 

Again, you have to tighten the connections, and you will be good to go. So, all the different versions of the F150 can carry the exact reasons behind the issues outlined. 

Different versions of the F-150 may be more or less susceptible to specific issues based on the materials used. As well as the design and construction of the components. 

By understanding the different versions of the F-150, drivers and owners can be better informed and better prepared to address any issues that may arise.

F150 Sunroof Maintenance Guide For Proper Functionality

It can be indicated that taking the following steps will help ensure your sunroof is always in top condition. 

1. Clean the sunroof tracks and seal and check for signs of wear and regular tear at least twice a month. 
2. Lubricate the sunroof tracks. Use a silicone-based lubricant to seal the tracks. 
3. Inspect the sunroof for damage when you are regularly servicing your car.
4. Have a professional inspect the sunroof at least once yearly to ensure it is in good working order. 
5. Whenever the sunroof is open, use a sunshade to keep the interior cool. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

How do I reset the sunroof switch on my F150?

To reset the sunroof switch on your F150, you will need to remove the power from the sunroof. Then, disconnect the battery or remove the fuse that powers the sunroof. Press and hold the sunroof switch for 10 seconds. This should reset the switch.

Can replacing the sunroof glass solve the F150’s not closing issue?

Replacing the sunroof glass will not solve the F150, not the closing issue. The issue is likely a mechanical problem with the sunroof mechanism and would require a sunroof repair or replacement.

How to diagnose F150 Sunroof for any faults?

To diagnose the F150 sunroof for any faults, first, inspect the sunroof for any visible signs of damage. Then, check the sunroof for any blockages or obstructions. Lastly, test the sunroof by opening and closing it to ensure it functions correctly.

Bottomline

The F150 sunroof won’t close scenario is likely caused by a mechanical issue with the components of the sunroof. It is essential to take the vehicle to a certified mechanic to identify the cause and ensure that the sunroof is functioning correctly and safely.

We hope you do well with your ventures; it is time to leave, goodbye!