Sunroof vs Moonroof: What’s the difference? 

History of Sunroofs:
The first known implementation of a sunroof dates back to the early 1930s, and it was invented by a German manufacturer called Webasto. A sunroof is a panel in a car's roof that can be opened to reveal a window, enabling sunlight and fresh air to enter the interior of the vehicle. Sunroofs come in various shapes, sizes, and styles, and can be operated either manually or with a motor. Sunroofs are usually made of metal, and you cannot see through them.

What is a Moonroof?
Unlike traditional sunroofs, moonroofs are made with glass panels that are typically tinted. Moonroofs are see-through and can be motor charged. Moonroofs can either be stationary, tilt open to allow fresh air or slide completely open. There are many types of moonroofs/sunroofs:

Pop-up
Pop-up sunroofs are the most traditional type of sunroof. A pop-up sunroof is a type of sunroof that can be manually or electronically opened and removed from the vehicle's roof. A pop-up sunroof typically consists of a panel that is hinged at the front and can be raised or tilted upwards. It is usually operated using a lever or switch located inside the vehicle's cabin. Pop-up sunroofs are often found in older or vehicle models. They provide an affordable option for individuals who want the benefits of a sunroof without the complexity or cost associated with other types of sunroof systems.

Inbuilt
Inbuilt sunroofs are commonly referred to as moonroofs. They are what we see in most vehicles on the market today. Inbuilt sunroofs are made of a glass panel that slides into the roof of the car between the interior fabric and exterior metal. This causes loss in headspace but allows for a large opening in the roof. Many inbuilt sunroofs have the option to tilt open.

Top-mount/Spoiler
This sunroof option is the same as an inbuilt, but instead of sliding into the roof of the car, it slides into tracks placed on top of the vehicle.

Panoramic roofs
A panoramic sunroof, also known as a panoramic moonroof or simply a dual-panel sunroof, is a type of sunroof that spans a large portion of the vehicle's roof, providing an expansive opening and a wide view of the sky for both front and rear occupants. Panoramic sunroofs typically consist of two or more glass panels that are integrated into the roof structure of the vehicle. The panels can be fixed or movable, depending on the specific design and functionality.

Advantages and disadvantages of sunroofs:
The advantages of having a sunroof are great! Sunroofs allow fresh air and sunlight in without taking the entire roof off a car and fully exposing your skin to harmful sun rays. Sunroofs allow natural sunlight to enter the vehicle's interior, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. This can enhance the driving experience and make the cabin feel more open and spacious. They also give added value to a vehicle. Many car buyers see sunroofs as a luxurious or premium feature, which can make a vehicle more appealing to potential buyers in the resale market.

There are also disadvantages to sunroofs. Depending on the type of sunroof, there can be some trade-offs, including minimized headroom. Additionally, certain sunroof mechanisms, such as motors, tracks, and frames, can add weight to the vehicle's roof structure. This additional weight may slightly affect the vehicle's center of gravity, potentially impacting its handling characteristics and fuel efficiency.

How much does it cost to add a moonroof/sunroof?
Generally, sunroof installations can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. However, it's important to note that these are approximate estimates, and the actual cost can be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances. Contact us today and find out if a sunroof is right for you!