Honda CR-V Moonroof Problems and Solutions

If you're using a Honda CR-V EX trim and above, chances are you have a moonroof - a glass panel on your roof that allows ambient light and can slide open for fresh air. This feature adds some luxury to your vehicle, but it is not without some problems.

Common problems of the Honda CR-V moonroof include leakage, getting stuck or jammed, rattling noise, misalignment, electrical problems, not sliding completely, and slow operation. Repair or replace damaged parts to restore normal function.

If you're having any of these problems with your moonroof, this article is for you. Read on to understand why you may have these problems, and check out some of the solutions provided.

Common Honda CR-V Moonroof Problems

1) Leaks

You probably won't notice this until it rains or you wash your car. When your moonroof is closed, it should only allow light, not water. So if you notice water coming in from the moonroof, something is wrong. 

And water can be bad for your car's interior. Apart from the fact that it's an inconvenience, it can spoil your upholstery and cause mold growth - which is a health hazard.

Why Does this Happen? The moonroof seals could weaken from wear and tear and allow water to seep in. Also, debris could clog the drainage channels. The water would have to find its way somehow, usually leading to leaking.

Solution: First, inspect the moonroof drain channels for any debris, and clear them. But if the drain channels are free, inspect the seals to see if a replacement is necessary. We recommend you allow a professional to take care of this - unless you're one.

2) Jammed Moonroof

Another problem you might face with the moonroof is being stuck or jammed. You may want to slide it open for fresh air and discover it won't move because it's stuck.

A stuck or jammed moonroof defeats the purpose of the moonroof, at least to the extent that you can't get some fresh air.

Why Does this Happen? It may be due to one of the following issues: damaged tracks, obstruction from foreign objects, or a malfunctioning motor.

Solution: First, inspect the moonroof for any obstructive objects and remove them, if any. Inspect the tracks, too, and replace them if damaged. Also, check if the motor is still working well; otherwise, you must replace them.

3) Noise and Rattling

Are you hearing rattling noises from the moonroof area while driving? Your car shouldn't be making rattling noises or noises in the hall, especially not from the moon roof.

Noise, in general, is a clear indication that something is wrong. It can also make you uncomfortable. And if the moonroof noise worsens, you won't enjoy the sounds from the infotainment system. 

Why Does this Happen? The noises from your moonroof could be due to worn-out seals, loose components, or improperly installed parts. You'd have to inspect it to know the exact cause.

Solution: Inspect the moonroof for any loose or damaged parts. Tighten the loose parts, and replace damaged parts, if any. The noises should stop, but if they don't, take your car to a professional.

4) Electrical Problems

If your Honda CR-V is from a recent year, the moonroof would likely have electrical controls like switches or motors. Electrical controls can be tricky - they can get damaged without notice.

Electrical systems function via intricate wiring connections. These connections link to a central power source. Every part of the system has to be in perfect condition for a properly functioning system. 

Why Does this Happen? Wiring problems, bad switches, and damaged motors can disrupt the proper functioning of the electrical system. Fortunately, you can trace the source of electrical problems from the vehicle's fuse box.

Solution: If you know your way around the fuse box, open it and inspect the fuses and relays related to the moonroof. Otherwise, take your car to a professional for assistance. It's always a bad idea to attempt fixing your car if you don't have the expertise.

5) Misalignment of Tracks and Rollers

The tracks and rollers are important parts of the moonroof. They support the opening and closing of the moonroof. A well-functioning moonroof should open and close without any trouble.

However, if the moonroof struggles to open or close, the tracks or rollers may have lost alignment. If it is not fixed on time, the moonroof may stop moving.

Misalignment can also cause grinding noises and lead to water leakages. Water can spoil your interior. And if you have fabric upholstery, leakages can cause smells and mold growth.

Why Does this Happen? Wear and tear, manufacturing defects, and debris can are the usual culprits. The sudden impact can also cause the rollers to disengage from their tracks.

Solution: Inspect the tracks and rollers; clear the debris, if any. If tracks or rollers are worn or damaged, get a replacement. Sometimes, it may only require lubrication to restore normal function. If rollers and tracks appear to be okay, realign them and lubricate the tracks.

6) Sliding Issues

Your moonroof should slide smoothly, all things being equal. However, some Honda CR-V owners have reported instances where the moonroof opens only halfway. Sometimes, while opening, it may stop briefly before it continues retracting again.

The moonroof retraction is a function of both mechanical and electrical components. For the mechanical aspect, the roller and track must be in alignment. On the other hand, electrical components like the wiring and the motor must function properly.

Why Does this Happen? Problems with mechanical or electrical function or both can cause moonroof sliding issues. Worn rollers or tracks, debris, lack of lubrication, faulty wiring, and damaged motor are some issues that can impede smooth moonroof retraction.

Solution: Because many factors can cause moonroof sliding issues, an elaborate inspection is needed. Check both mechanical and electrical functions components for signs of damage or malfunction and resolve where necessary. Checking for lubrication is a good place to start.

7) Slow Operation

Some users have reported that although the moonroof may be sliding fine, it's slower than normal. Imagine driving, and the rain suddenly descends! Or you're passing through a dusty road, and you have to close up.

A moonroof that takes time to close will cause a lot of mess before it finally closes up. This problem is still related to the instance of not sliding completely. There are also mechanical and electric factors involved in their operations.

Why Does this Happen? The slow movement of the moonroof indicates a higher-than-required amount of friction. Weak power supply, lack of lubrication, debris, or misalignment can be responsible for the moonroof's struggle to move.

Solution: Ensure you're not dealing with a weak power supply by checking the motor battery. If that's out, check for possible obstructions like debris and misalignment issues. Also, ensure the track is well-lubricated, as a dry track can slow down moonroof movement.

8) Frame and Panel Misalignment

A brand-new Honda CR-V should have everything intact, including the moonroof. However, if you bought a used car, it may have been refurbished with aftermarket parts and accessories. 

Sometimes, aftermarket parts can cause problems, like moonroof frame and panel misalignment. There could be other causes, too, unrelated to aftermarket parts. However, when the frame and the glass panel are not properly aligned, there'd be noises and leaks, which can be very inconveniencing.

Why Does this Happen? Apart from installing a bad aftermarket product, the forceful accidental impact can dislodge the proper alignment.

Solution: A mechanic can fix this by properly aligning the frame and glass panel. A replacement may be required on some occasions. Honda CR-V authorized dealers can also provide you with better-quality factory replacements.

9) Control Switch Issues

Moonroof control switches can get bad too. And when they do, your moonroof won't open or close except by allowing ambient light penetration. Switches rarely get damaged in modern cars, but it's still a possibility - manhandling or aftermarket issues.

Why Does this Happen? Control switches can get unresponsive due to electrical malfunction. Sometimes, the buttons may just be stuck

Solution: An electrician can trace the fault and rectify the problem. If the buttons are stuck, a part of it is probably broken - you may have to replace them.

The Takeaway

The moonroof is a luxury feature on the Honda CR-V EX trims and above that allows ambient light and can slide open for the influx of fresh air. This article discussed common issues with the moonroof and its solutions.

The moonroof function is a combined interaction of both mechanical and electrical functions. So, problems with any part can impede the smooth operation of the moonroof-issues like roller and track misalignment, leaks, noise, and electrical problems.

Resolution starts with an inspection to identify damaged parts for repair or replacement, as the case may be. Seeking professional assistance is highly recommended to avoid exacerbating the problems while attempting repairs yourself. 

It would also help to conduct routine checks for lubrication and any accumulation of debris. These simple issues can cause problems with the moonroof.