Symptoms
- Water dripping from the headliner near the sunroof edges
- Water appears especially after rain or car washes
- Possible staining on the headliner fabric
- Water may pool at the front corners of the sunroof opening
Likely causes
- CommonClogged sunroof drain tubesLeaves, dirt, and debris commonly clog these small tubes that run down through the door pillars.
- CommonDisconnected drain tubeA tube can pop loose from its outlet, redirecting water into the car instead of outside.
- PossibleWorn or misaligned sunroof sealThe rubber seal around the glass itself can wear or shift out of position over time.
- Less commonSunroof out of proper alignmentA sunroof that's shifted slightly on its tracks may not seal evenly all around.
What to do
- Open the sunroof and look at the four drain tube openings, usually near the corners of the opening.
- Use a soft wire, pipe cleaner, or a specialized sunroof drain tool to gently clear any visible clogs.
- Pour a small amount of water into each drain opening and check that it exits from under the car near the front or rear wheels (owner's manual or online guides show typical exit points for your model).
- Check that the sunroof seal looks intact and properly seated all the way around.
- Have a shop clear a deeper clog or repair a disconnected tube if you can't reach or fix it yourself.
- Address this promptly, since standing water in the drain system or headliner can lead to mold or electrical issues over time.
Tools and parts
- Soft wire or pipe cleaner
- Small funnel or bottle of water
Sunroof drain tubeSearch: “sunroof drain tube for [year make model]”
When to call a pro
A shop can access a fully clogged or disconnected drain tube through the door pillar or headliner if a simple clear-out doesn't work.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.