Sunroof Switch

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the sunroof switch in a 1966 Chevrolet Corvette, including access through the interior console or headliner area and electrical connection verification.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Sunroof switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Electrical connector terminals (if corroded) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent short circuits during electrical work
3. Allow interior to cool if vehicle has been in sun, as trim panels become more brittle when hot
4. Gather all tools and replacement parts before beginning work

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the sunroof switch
   The 1966 Corvette was not offered with a factory sunroof, so there is no standard switch location. If your vehicle has an aftermarket sunroof, the switch location and wiring will vary by installer; locate the switch and document its mounting and wiring before proceeding. Identify the switch location and note the surrounding trim pieces that will need removal for access.
2. 2

   Remove console trim panel
   If switch is console-mounted, remove the center console trim panel by removing the screws securing the panel (count and type vary with the aftermarket installation; inspect and document before removal). Gently pull the trim panel away from the console base, being careful not to crack or bend the trim material. If switch is headliner-mounted, proceed to step 4.
3. 3

   Access console-mounted switch
   With console trim removed, locate the sunroof switch mounting bracket. Remove 2 screws securing the switch bracket to the console structure. Gently pull the switch assembly forward to access the electrical connector on the rear of the switch.
4. 4

   Remove headliner-mounted switch (if applicable)
   If switch is headliner-mounted, use a flat blade screwdriver wrapped in a cloth to carefully pry the switch bezel from the headliner. Work slowly around the perimeter to release the retaining clips without tearing the headliner material. Pull the switch assembly down to access the wiring.
5. 5

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the back of the sunroof switch. Note the wire colors and positions for correct reinstallation. Disconnect the connector by pressing any locking tab and pulling the connector straight off the switch terminals. Inspect the connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
6. 6

   Remove old switch
   With electrical connection separated, fully remove the old sunroof switch from the vehicle. If the switch is held by additional mounting hardware, remove it now. Keep all mounting hardware for reinstallation unless replacing with new hardware included with replacement switch.
7. 7

   Prepare new switch
   Unpack the replacement sunroof switch and compare it to the original to verify correct fitment. If the new switch does not include mounting hardware, transfer the mounting bracket and screws from the old switch to the new unit.
8. 8

   Install new switch
   Position the new sunroof switch into the mounting location. If console-mounted, secure the switch bracket with the 2 mounting screws, tightening snugly but not over-tightening to avoid cracking plastic or fiberglass. If headliner-mounted, align the switch body with the opening but do not snap into place yet.
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Connect the electrical connector to the terminals on the back of the new switch. Ensure the connector seats fully and any locking tab clicks into place. Verify wire routing matches the original configuration and wires are not pinched or stressed.
10. 10

    Test switch operation
    Reconnect the negative battery cable temporarily. Turn the ignition to the accessory or run position. Test the switch in all positions to verify proper operation of the installed aftermarket sunroof mechanism before reassembling trim, confirming functions match what your specific system supports. Disconnect battery again after testing.
11. 11

    Complete switch installation
    If headliner-mounted, press the switch bezel firmly into the headliner opening until all retaining clips engage. Verify the bezel sits flush with the headliner surface. If console-mounted, tuck all wiring into the console cavity and verify no wires will be pinched during trim reinstallation.
12. 12

    Reinstall trim panels
    Reinstall the console trim panel by aligning it to the console base and pressing gently to seat any alignment pins. Install the 4 Phillips head screws and tighten evenly, working in a cross pattern. Do not overtighten as this can crack the trim panel.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect negative battery cable and secure with battery terminal wrench
2. Test sunroof operation through full range of motion to ensure proper switch function
3. Verify all console or headliner trim pieces are securely fastened and properly aligned

Verification

• Operate sunroof switch in all positions and verify sunroof responds correctly to each command
• Check that switch illumination functions properly if equipped with lighted switch
• Verify switch feels secure in mounting location with no excessive movement or rattling
• Confirm all interior trim panels are properly secured and aligned with no gaps
• Test sunroof limit switches by running sunroof to fully open and fully closed positions to ensure motor stops at correct points

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