Feasible, but expensive! Retrofit the sunroof!

Recently updated on October 3, 2023 at 01:55 am

[Update: 03.10.2023] This post was updatedto take more recent information into account. If you want to retrofit a sunroof to your car, you should know the different variants that are available. A distinction is made between panoramic roofs, folding roofs, sliding glass roofs, lifting roofs and other variants. Furthermore, the cost-benefit factor should also be taken into account when retrofitting. Below we will go into more detail about the different sunroof variants and the requirements for retrofitting. A roof system does not have to be completely closed, but can provide opportunities for ventilation and light entry. In addition to the conversion to... Convertible is for example that too Targa roof, with removable roof center section, interesting.

retrofit the sunroof

If you want something smaller and simpler, you can also prefer a car with a glass sunroof, which allows a panoramic view upwards and at the same time lets light into the car. Another interesting roof variant are so-called folding roofs. These are available in technically simple versions with different lengths for some vehicles. In addition to folding roofs and sliding roofs, vehicles and retrofit kits with a lifting roof are also available. A lifting roof not only allows fresh air and light into the car, but also serves partly as a wind deflector. While the interested tuner can choose the right roof directly when buying a new car, things get more complicated with used cars without a sliding, folding or lifting roof. Depending on the vehicle model and the desired roof system, retrofitting may be an option.

Retrofitting a sunroof - is it feasible?

Retrofitting a roof system is not inexpensive and improper installation should definitely be avoided. If a retrofit kit is offered particularly cheaply and the conversion is not professional, this can lead to tightness problems and the leaks can rust quickly, depending on the material properties. It should also always be noted that the vehicle roof contributes significantly to the rigidity and safety of the body. Just cut a hole in it and insert a 0815 sunroof if possible. Retrofitting a specific roof system depends on the type of roof system.

Roof systems - which ones can be retrofitted?

Simple glass roofs are happy to be retrofitted and a simple lifting roof with an electric motor can also be retrofitted to most vehicles. If the battery of the vehicle does not allow the lifting roof with an electric motor to be used, then a roof system for cranking (manual opening) can also be considered. Which roof system can be retrofitted also depends on the size of the car roof and, of course, the financial possibilities of the vehicle owner. Folding roofs and smaller glass roofs (sunroofs) can be retrofitted in many vehicle models. However, problems can arise when retrofitting if a vehicle roof is strongly curved or has recessed folds, etc.

Check permission to retrofit a sunroof

When retrofitting, care should be taken that the installation does not negatively affect the stability of the body. If in doubt, the vehicle owner should get information from the road traffic office, a vehicle registration office and a specialist workshop about retrofitting and upgrade options. The general operating license for a vehicle can also provide information about sunroofs that can be retrofitted. If you are not sure, you should have the retrofitting of the sunroof approved by a certified test center. It is advisable to inquire about the effect on vehicle registration before the actual installation.

To summarize the most important information:

• Glass roofs or glass sliding roofs let a lot of light into the vehicle and allow a good view upwards
• Folding roofs are not technically complex and, depending on their length, let more or less light into the cabin
• An opening roof means you don't have to use the air conditioning in the summer
• Lift roofs can also function as wind deflectors and prevent unrest in the vehicle
• Retrofitting or retrofitting is possible
• Rust and any tightness problems should be considered
• Retrofitting for almost all vehicle types (except convertible) possible
• electrical or manual roofs are available
• smaller sunroofs or folding roofs are easy to retrofit
• Recessed creases, curved vehicle roofs can cause problems
• Parts of the body that are relevant to stability should not be impaired by the sunroof (torsional rigidity must still be guaranteed)
• The vehicle's general operating license often provides information about sunroofs that can be retrofitted
• Testing companies can bring about final clarification
• Do-it-yourself installation is not recommended, because in addition to the knowledge, special tools are often required

FAQ: Retrofitting a sunroof:

1. What are the costs for retrofitting a sunroof?

• Various options: Prices vary depending on the type and function of the sunroof.
• Lifting roof: A simple lifting roof is available from around EUR 200.
• Lifting sunroof: A manually operated lifting sunroof is available from around EUR 250.
• Electric sunroof: Costs for an electrically powered variant start at around EUR 500.
• Folding roof: A luxurious folding roof can increase the cost up to 1.000 euros.

2. Is it generally possible to retrofit a sunroof?

• At least possible: In most cases, retrofitting a sunroof is possible.
• Relevant information: You can find out important details and specific costs for the process in this guide below.

3. Can and should you retrofit a panoramic roof yourself?

• Complexity: You should not retrofit a panoramic roof yourself.
• Body stability: Since this affects the structure and stability of the vehicle, precise calculations and professional installation are required.

4. What costs can be expected when retrofitting a panoramic roof?

• Cost overview:
  • Lifting roof: Material from €250, installation €50 to €200.
  • Spoiler roof: Material from €420, installation €150 to €400.
  • Automatic spoiler roof with roller blind: Material from €520, installation €200 to €500.
  • Folding roof: Material from €1.000, installation €250 to €800.

5. Is it possible to wrap a panoramic roof?

• Alternative to painting: Films provide an easily removable and replaceable option.
• Sun protection: They lower the temperature in the interior and can also provide a blackout effect if colored films are used.

Summary

Retrofitting a sliding or panoramic roof allows you to enhance the driving experience and increase the comfort and aesthetics of the vehicle. Our guide is intended to help you get an initial overview of the different options and their costs Guidance. However, the specific circumstances and options must be clarified with a specialist company in order to take individual factors and safety into account.

We hope that you have read the info report on the topic / term Retrofitting sunroof (further names / keywords: sunroof, retrofit sunroof, retrofit glass roof, glass roof, glass sunroof, folding roof, lifting roof, panorama roof, retrofit roof, sunroof, fresh air roof, pop-top roof, lifting roof, high roof, steel sliding roof, folding roof) from the field of autotuning.

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