Sunroof Motor

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the sunroof motor assembly on 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler models equipped with a power sunroof.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Sunroof motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Interior trim panel clips (as needed) × 5 — Mopar 6503598AA or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Close sunroof completely and verify it is in the fully closed position
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system to discharge
4. Remove any items from headliner area that may interfere with work

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery
   Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Wait at least 2 minutes to allow the supplemental restraint system (airbag) to fully discharge before proceeding.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove overhead console
   Remove the overhead console by carefully prying down at the rear edge with trim tools. Disconnect all electrical connectors including dome lights, sunroof switch, and any other wiring. Set console aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Remove sunroof switch assembly
   Disconnect the sunroof switch electrical connector. Remove the switch assembly from the overhead console or headliner. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove headliner access panel
   Locate the headliner access panel directly above the sunroof motor location (typically front center of headliner). Remove screws securing the access panel using a T20 Torx driver. Carefully lower the panel to expose the sunroof motor and track assembly.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Disconnect sunroof motor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the sunroof motor assembly. Press the release tab and disconnect the connector. Ensure the connector is fully separated and note its orientation for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove motor mounting bolts
   Support the sunroof motor with one hand. Remove the mounting bolts securing the motor to the sunroof track assembly. There are typically 2-3 bolts depending on motor configuration. Keep bolts organized for reinstallation.
   ⚠Support motor during bolt removal to prevent it from falling and damaging sunroof mechanism or headliner
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Disconnect motor from drive cable
   Carefully disconnect the sunroof motor from the drive cable assembly. Note the engagement method (typically a clip or friction fit). Do not force the connection as this may damage the cable. If resistance is met, verify all mounting hardware has been removed.
8. 8

   Remove sunroof motor
   Carefully extract the sunroof motor from the headliner cavity. Maneuver it through the access opening, being careful not to damage surrounding headliner material or wiring. Inspect the old motor for signs of damage or wear.
9. 9

   Prepare new motor for installation
   Unpack the new sunroof motor and verify it matches the original unit. Check that all mounting points align and that the drive cable connector is compatible. If the motor has an initialization position indicator, note its setting.
10. 10

    Install new sunroof motor
    Position the new motor into the headliner cavity and align it with the mounting points on the sunroof track assembly. Connect the motor to the drive cable, ensuring full engagement. Install mounting bolts hand-tight initially.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Torque mounting bolts
    Torque the sunroof motor mounting bolts to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even pressure. Verify the motor sits flush against its mounting surface and does not bind the drive cable.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
12. 12

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

    Reinstall headliner access panel
    Position the headliner access panel back into place. Install and torque the retaining screws using a T20 Torx driver. Ensure the panel sits flush with the surrounding headliner.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Reinstall overhead console
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the overhead console including dome lights and sunroof switch. Position the console and press firmly until all clips engage. Verify the console is secure and flush.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery and initialize
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Clean contact surfaces if necessary before reconnecting. Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and allow vehicle systems to initialize.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels and clips are fully seated and secure
2. Verify all electrical connectors are properly engaged with locking tabs in place
3. Check that headliner access panel is flush and all screws are tight

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and operate sunroof through full open and close cycle
• Verify sunroof opens and closes smoothly without binding or unusual noise
• Test tilt function if equipped to ensure full range of motion
• Check that sunroof stops properly at fully open and fully closed positions
• Verify auto-close function works if equipped (obstacle detection)
• Confirm sunroof seals properly when closed with no visible gaps
• Re-initialize power windows if required per vehicle procedure

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