Subaru Outback Sunroof Won't Close
by Justin CuplerThe Subaru Outback is available in both sedan and station wagon versions. The sedan has one sunroof in the front, and the station wagon has dual sunroofs: one front and one rear. The sunroofs are opened and closed by an electric motor, and sometimes this motor can fail. When the motor fails, the sunroof remains open. Fortunately, Subaru has a way to manually close both the front and rear sunroofs.
Front Sunroof
Step 1
Locate the overhead map light panel directly above the windshield. Place a flat screwdriver under the clear map light lens and gently pry downward to remove it.
Step 2
Loosen and remove the two screws under the removed map light lens, using the Phillips screwdriver.
Step 3
Pull the bezel down, exposing a hex screw on the sunroof's motor. This is the manual override for the front sunroof.
Step 4
Close the sunroof by turning the screw counterclockwise, using the hex wrench.
Step 5
Turn the screw clockwise to lower the sunroof once it is fully closed.
Step 6
Place the map light assembly back on the vehicle and tighten the screws, using a Phillips screwdriver. Press the clear lens back onto the light assembly until it clicks into place.
Rear Sunroof (Wagon Only)
Step 1
Locate the plastic plug in the center of the headliner, approximately 12 inches to the rear of the sunroof.
Step 2
Place a flat screwdriver under the plug and pry the plug out. Notice a hex screw under the plug. This is the manual override for the rear sunroof.
Step 3
Place the hex wrench in the screw under the plug.
Step 4
Turn the hex wrench clockwise to close and seal the sunroof.
Step 5
Push the plug back into the headliner until it snaps into place.
Things You'll Need
- Hex wrench (included in vehicle's tool pouch)
- Flat screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
Writer Bio
Justin Cupler is a professional writer who has been published on several websites including CarsDirect and Autos.com. Cupler has worked in the professional automotive repair field as a technician and a manager since 2000. He has a certificate in broadcast journalism from the Connecticut School of Broadcasting. Cupler is currently studying mechanical engineering at Saint Petersburg College.
