Sunroof Motor

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the sunroof motor assembly on a 2015 Kia Forte, including headliner disassembly and electrical disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Sunroof motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Headliner trim clips (if damaged) × 5 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure sunroof is fully closed and will not move during service
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Allow vehicle to cool if recently driven
4. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 3 minutes for airbag system discharge
5. Remove both front sun visors by removing mounting screws
6. Remove dome light lens and disconnect electrical connector
7. Remove both A-pillar trim panels using panel removal tool

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove overhead console assembly
   Using panel removal tool, carefully pry down the overhead console from the front edge. Disconnect all electrical connectors for map lights, sunroof switch, and any other accessories. Lower the console and set aside safely.
2. 2

   Lower headliner at sunroof area
   Remove the sunroof opening trim by gently prying it from the headliner using panel removal tool. Work around entire perimeter. Lower the headliner carefully at the sunroof area only, supporting it to prevent creasing. You may need an assistant to hold the headliner down while working.
3. 3

   Access sunroof motor mounting area
   Locate the sunroof motor assembly at the front of the sunroof track mechanism. The motor is mounted on the driver side of the sunroof frame. Clear any insulation or sound deadening material blocking access to the motor.
4. 4

   Disconnect sunroof motor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector at the sunroof motor. Press the locking tab and carefully disconnect the connector. Mark connector orientation with tape if needed for reassembly reference.
5. 5

   Remove sunroof motor mounting bolts
   Using 10mm socket with extension, remove the mounting bolts securing the sunroof motor to the sunroof frame. There are typically 3 bolts. Support the motor as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

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

   Disengage motor from drive cable
   Carefully rotate the motor assembly to disengage it from the sunroof drive cable mechanism. Note the orientation and engagement position of the drive cable for proper installation of new motor. Remove the motor from the vehicle.
7. 7

   Install new sunroof motor
   Position the new sunroof motor and engage it with the drive cable mechanism in the same orientation as removed. Ensure the cable is properly seated in the motor drive gear before proceeding.
8. 8

   Secure motor mounting bolts
   Install the three motor mounting bolts and tighten to specification using torque wrench. Ensure motor is flush against mounting surface and properly aligned before final torquing.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Reconnect the electrical connector to the sunroof motor, ensuring it clicks fully into place and locking tab engages properly.
10. 10

    Test sunroof operation before reassembly
    Reconnect battery negative cable temporarily. Turn ignition to ON position and test sunroof operation through full open and close cycle. Verify smooth operation and proper seating in closed position. If operation is incorrect, check motor engagement with drive cable. Disconnect battery again before continuing.
11. 11

    Reinstall headliner and trim
    Carefully raise headliner back into position. Reinstall sunroof opening trim, pressing firmly around entire perimeter to seat clips. Install overhead console, connecting all electrical connectors before snapping console into place.
12. 12

    Complete interior reassembly
    Reinstall A-pillar trim panels on both sides. Reconnect dome light and install lens. Install both sun visors and secure mounting screws. Reconnect battery negative cable.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim clips are fully seated to prevent rattles
2. Verify headliner is properly positioned with no sagging or creases
3. Check that all electrical connectors are fully engaged and locked
4. Reset window auto-up/down function by holding window switch up for 3 seconds after full close

Verification

• Test sunroof full open and close operation multiple times
• Verify sunroof closes completely flush with roof panel
• Check for proper sealing with no wind noise at highway speeds
• Confirm overhead console and all interior lights function properly
• Listen for any unusual motor noise during sunroof operation
• Verify sunroof tilt function operates correctly if equipped

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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