One consideration that most people make when purchasing a car is whether they prefer a sunroof or not. There are also different variations of roof "windows'' for vehicles. Most people may think sunroofs and moonroofs are interchangeable, but the two have distinct differences. There are also many advantages and disadvantages when it comes to these aesthetic additions. Let's discuss the premises of what these add-ons are:
Both sunroofs and moonroofs are glass panels in the roof of a car that let light or fresh air inside the vehicle's cabin. A sunroof is typically a solid or opaque body-colored panel that can manually tilt up or be removed to let in light. When a sunroof is closed, it blends in to match the rest of the car. Whereas a moonroof is a type of sunroof, except it's a sheet of clear, tinted glass. With modern innovations, the panoramic style of the moonroof has become a popular trend in the 21st century. Nowadays, most of the roofs of cars are made entirely of glass. It is important to note that only the panel over the two front seats will be completely open.
Besides their aesthetic purposes, what are the pros and cons of having them?
Pros:
- Improved Air Flow
- Aesthetically Pleasing
- Great for Sightseeing
Cons:
- Costly to Replace or Repair - Installing a replacement sunroof is a difficult task, and if the job is poorly done, it can allow leaks and noises to come through when driving.
- Excess Weight – Having a sunroof can add up to 30-40 pounds of excess weight and strain your car, which can increase your gas consumption.
- Prone to Breakage & Leaks - In the case that you accidentally leave the sunroof open and it rains, you'll be left with damaged interiors.
A sunroof or moonroof is ultimately all up to personal preference and style. Though one can add a sleek touch to your vehicle and are great for stargazing drives, they are not a must for most drivers.
If you need any automotive maintenance or repairs, please consider taking your vehicle to German Motorworks.