My little nephew having rode only traditional (sans sunroof) cars till he turned 8, was thrilled beyond words when his mom, my cousin picked him up from school in her brand new 22 Civic EX. When the sun shines down on you through an open sunroof, It’s a feeling of freedom so, not surprising that for the past decade or so, sunroofs have caught the fancy of all age groups. In fact, back in 2017, around 40% of new cars had one, up from just 33% in 2011. Oh, and with those newer panoramic versions, you practically get a glass roof!
But hold on a second— If your car didn’t have it preinstalled and before you rush off to install a sunroof in your car, there are some important things you might want to be aware of first. Why? Cos it’s not all sunshine and cool breezes, there are risks too.
Sunroof Safety
Admittedly, sunroofs do look great, but did you know they can also be dangerous? Yep, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), sunroofs have been linked to some scary statistics. From 2002 to 2012, about 230 people died each year in accidents involving closed sunroofs, with another 500 injuries reported. And when we talk about ejection through sunroofs—yes, it can happen!—the numbers are even more alarming. Around 300 people lost their lives between 1997 and 2008, with another 1,400 getting injured.
The numbers actually surprised me too. It’s a bit of a wake-up call for those who don’t consider the potential dangers of these features.
Should There Be Stronger Sunroof Regulations?
What’s really surprising is that there aren’t any specific safety rules mandating how sunroofs should be designed to protect passengers from being thrown out during a crash. For instance, in a heartbreaking case, a young woman was paralyzed after being ejected through a sunroof. The carmaker didn’t face any legal consequences, arguing that they weren’t breaking any regulations.
So, could there be a safer way to make sunroofs? Some experts think so. One idea is to use laminated safety glass (like the windshield of a car), which is less likely to shatter in an accident compared to the tempered glass most sunroofs use. But, car manufacturers aren’t all on board—they argue that laminated glass could increase the risk of head and neck injuries. Talk about a catch 22.
However, some brands, like Volvo, have started using laminated glass for sunroofs voluntarily, showing that safety innovation is possible even without strict regulations.
The Possible Downsides of Aftermarket Sunroofs
If your car didn’t come with a sunroof, you might be tempted to get one installed to keep up with the trend. Yes, aftermarket sunroofs are a common option that many people opt for, but they do come with some risks. First, cutting into your car’s roof can affect its structural integrity. Not to mention the electrical modifications needed for an aftermarket sunroof can void your vehicle’s warranty. And if the installation is botched, you might end up with leaks or even rust spots to live with till the rest of the life of your car.
How Long Will It Last?
Even if you find a professional to do the job, aftermarket sunroofs don’t always last as long as factory-installed ones for obvious reasons. Car makers spend a lot of their budget on research which means your friendly neighborhood tinkerer may not be able to match their quality. Over time, parts can and will wear out, meaning more repair bills down the road. Plus, countless stories to prove that aftermarket sunroofs can sometimes be prone to rattling or leaking as the car ages—nobody wants that headache.
Will It Impact Your Car’s Resale Value?
Well, here’s the deal (pun unintended), if you are thinking of selling your car in the future, an aftermarket sunroof might complicate things. Some potential buyers love sunroofs, but others could be cautious about aftermarket installations. More than the regular shaky steering wheel or squeaky noises issues, concerns about possible leaks, rust, or structural issues could also lead to lower offers or tough negotiations.
How Much Does It Cost to Install an Aftermarket Sunroof?
Prices vary, but you’re typically looking at anywhere from $300 to $2,000 or more, depending on the type of sunroof and how complex the installation is. While it may seem like a bargain compared to buying a car with a factory-installed sunroof, remember that quality matters. A poorly installed sunroof can cost you much more in the long run.
Legal Implications
In some places, there are legal rules about how you can use a sunroof. For example, in certain states, sticking your head out of a moving vehicle through the sunroof is illegal and can lead to a fine. So, before you get too excited, check local laws to make sure you’re not breaking any!
Final Thoughts: Is Adding a Sunroof Worth It?
Adding a sunroof does make for a fun ride, but, it’s not a decision to take lightly. There are real risks, costs, and potential long-term headaches involved. If you still decide to go ahead, make sure you choose a trusted installer and do your homework on what’s involved.
