What is a power moonroof?
Reviewed by the Skyview Auto Glass technical team — NWRD-, ASE- and DINITROL-trained technicians · Updated November 2026
Quick answer
A power moonroof is a glass roof panel that opens and closes at the touch of a button rather than by a hand crank. It tilts up at the back for ventilation and can slide open into the roof or above it. An interior shade slides to block the sun when the glass is closed.
How a power moonroof works
A power moonroof is an electrically operated glass panel in the roof. A small motor drives the panel along a track, tilting it up at the rear for ventilation or sliding it open, either between the roof and the headliner or up and over the roof surface. A switch on the headliner or console controls it, and most close fully and seal against weatherstripping when shut.
The mechanism includes the motor, the track or rails, the cables or arms that move the panel, and the weatherstripping that seals the opening. A drain tube at each corner carries away water that runs past the seal, so the cabin stays dry even in rain with the roof closed. The interior shade is a separate sliding panel that blocks light.
Power moonroofs differ from panoramic roofs mainly in size. A power moonroof is usually a single panel over the front seats, while a panoramic roof spans much of the roof and may have a fixed rear section. See our guides on sunroof versus moonroof and what a panoramic sunroof is.
Parts of a power moonroof assembly
- The glass panel, usually tinted.
- The electric motor and drive mechanism.
- The track or rails the panel slides along.
- Weatherstripping that seals the opening when closed.
- Drain tubes at the corners that carry away runoff.
- A sliding interior shade to block light.
Myths about power moonroofs
A power moonroof and a panoramic roof are the same thing.
A power moonroof is a single opening panel; a panoramic roof is larger and may include a fixed rear section. Some panoramic roofs open, some do not.
A power moonroof leaks more than a manual one.
Leaks come from clogged drains or worn seals, not from the motor. Both types rely on the same drain-and-seal system.
The motor needs regular service.
The motor itself is maintenance-free. The drains and seals are what need occasional attention.
More questions about power moonroofs
What is a power sunroof?
It is a glass roof panel that opens and closes electrically with a switch, tilting for ventilation or sliding fully open. Power sunroof and power moonroof are often used to mean the same thing.
How does a power moonroof work?
A motor drives the glass panel along a track, tilting it up or sliding it open. Drain tubes carry away water that runs past the seal.
What is the difference between a power moonroof and a panoramic roof?
Size and layout. A power moonroof is a single panel over the front seats; a panoramic roof spans much of the roof and may have a fixed rear section.
Related guides
More in Car windows, back glass and sunroofs
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