Sunroof Motor

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the sunroof motor assembly on a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with panoramic sunroof, requiring removal of the overhead console and headliner access.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Sunroof motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM Ford sunroof motor for panoramic roof
• Overhead console trim clips (if damaged) × 5 — Ford push-pin retainers
• Headliner fasteners (if damaged) × 3 — Ford headliner retaining clips

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure sunroof is completely closed
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
4. Allow headliner area to reach room temperature if vehicle was in direct sunlight to prevent damage during manipulation

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery
   Disconnect the negative battery terminal using a 10mm socket. Secure the cable away from the terminal to prevent accidental reconnection during the procedure.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove overhead console
   Using a panel trim tool, carefully pry down the front edge of the overhead console near the sunroof controls. Release the retaining clips on both sides. Disconnect the electrical connectors for the sunroof switch, dome lights, and any other accessories. Lower the console and set aside.
3. 3

   Remove sunglasses holder and rear accessories
   If equipped, remove the sunglasses holder by pressing the release tabs and pulling downward. Remove any rear overhead console sections by releasing the retaining clips with a trim tool. Disconnect all electrical connectors.
4. 4

   Lower headliner section
   Locate the headliner fasteners surrounding the sunroof motor access area. Using a T20 Torx driver, remove the fasteners securing the headliner to the roof structure. Carefully pull down the headliner section to expose the sunroof motor assembly. Support the headliner to prevent stress on the material.
   ⚠Do not bend the headliner more than necessary as this can cause permanent creasing or separation from the backing board
5. 5

   Access sunroof motor
   With the headliner lowered, locate the sunroof motor assembly mounted to the sunroof track mechanism. It is typically positioned toward the front of the sunroof opening. Use a flashlight to identify the motor, mounting bolts, and electrical connector.
6. 6

   Disconnect motor electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the sunroof motor electrical connector and carefully pull the connector straight off the motor. Inspect the connector terminals for corrosion or damage. Clean with electrical contact cleaner if necessary.
7. 7

   Remove motor mounting bolts
   Using an 8mm socket, remove the mounting bolts securing the sunroof motor to the track assembly. There are typically 2-3 bolts depending on the motor design. Support the motor as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   ⚠The motor may be spring-loaded against the drive mechanism; control its removal to prevent dropping
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Remove sunroof motor
   Carefully disengage the motor drive gear from the sunroof track mechanism by rotating the motor slightly while pulling it away from the track. Note the orientation of the motor and the position of the drive gear engagement for installation reference. Remove the motor from the vehicle.
9. 9

   Inspect track mechanism
   With the motor removed, inspect the sunroof track and drive cables for damage, debris, or excessive wear. Clean the track area with a clean cloth. Ensure the drive gear area is free of obstructions and the cables move freely.
10. 10

    Install new sunroof motor
    Position the new sunroof motor near the track mechanism. Align the drive gear with the track engagement point, matching the orientation noted during removal. Rotate the motor slightly if needed to engage the gear teeth properly with the drive mechanism. Ensure full engagement before proceeding.
11. 11

    Install motor mounting bolts
    Insert and hand-thread all motor mounting bolts. Once all bolts are started, torque them evenly in a crossing pattern using a torque wrench to the specified value. Verify the motor is securely mounted and has no excessive play.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Connect the electrical connector to the sunroof motor, ensuring it clicks into place and the locking tab is fully engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is secure.
13. 13

    Reinstall headliner
    Carefully guide the headliner back into position against the roof structure. Align all mounting points and reinstall the T20 Torx fasteners. Work from the center outward to avoid creating wrinkles or misalignment in the headliner material.
14. 14

    Reinstall overhead console components
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the overhead console, sunglasses holder, and any rear accessories. Snap the components back into place, ensuring all retaining clips are fully engaged. Verify all dome lights and switches are properly aligned.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery and initialize sunroof
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off). Initialize the sunroof by holding the close button until the sunroof fully closes and continues to hold for 5 seconds. Release and then hold the open button for 5 seconds. This re-synchronizes the sunroof motor control module.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels and console components are fully seated with no gaps or misalignment
2. Verify all electrical connectors are locked in place and no wiring is pinched by trim panels
3. Check that headliner is smooth and properly secured at all fastener locations

Verification

• Test sunroof operation through full open and close cycles, including tilt function if equipped
• Verify sunroof stops properly at all programmed positions without unusual noise or binding
• Confirm all overhead console lights, switches, and accessories function correctly
• Check for any headliner sagging or misalignment around the sunroof area
• Test auto-reverse safety function by gently obstructing the sunroof during closing to ensure it reverses properly

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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