What are the Key Differences Between Sunroofs and Moonroofs?
Whether your INFINITI vehicle has a sunroof or a moonroof, it can be tough to tell them apart from one another. After all, technically, they're the same -- and yet, not. So, how can you tell which you've even got, let alone what type it is and which is better?
It's a good thing you came to us here at INFINITI USA for answers; here's everything you need to know.
Sunroof vs. Moonroof: the Basics
It's true: both are basically body panels. What's more, early on in automotive history, a sunroof was much like a sunshade or sun visor -- opaque, allowing neither light nor air through when it was closed. A moonroof, on the other hand, was generally tempered glass: either clear or tinted, but, either way, a panel you could see through.
These days, though, sunroofs are more like moonroofs than they used to be.
So, Which is Better? A Sunroof or a Moonroof?
Interestingly enough, the question is basically moot. Technically, since both are glass nowadays, the answer is pretty much "a sunroof or moonroof with a sunshade installed." In other words, one that lets both light and air in when both the roof and the shade are fully opened, that gives one a better view with the roof panel only closed during a drive, and that lets you shut out both, by closing both.
Are There Different Types of Sunroofs and Moonroofs?
Yes, five, basically: built-in, spoiler, pop-up, lamella, and panoramic. With a built-in, you can raise the back of the panel to get a little fresh air on the interior, or slide it between the roof and the headliner to fully open it. A spoiler roof raises, but stays above the vehicle's roof itself upon being slid back. A pop-up opens at the back only, and generally doesn't slide, but it can be removed. A lamella has several sliding panels, which accordion much like blinds so. Finally, a panoramic covers the entire roof versus just the center of the vehicle or thereabouts; in doing so, it gives every set of seats a better view, a little ventilation, or both, depending on whether its fixed or movable.
Sunroofs and Moonroofs: One Big Pro, and a Couple Minor Cons
There's one benefit to having a sunroof or moonroof above all: the ambiance one can provide; to wit, a little sunshine on a nice day, and a comfortable breeze in the cabin, can make any drive a lot more pleasant. Moreover, you'll find one more secure and better sealable than, say, the canvas top on a convertible.
One noteworthy drawback, though: both sunroofs and moonroofs are made up of a lot of stationary and moving parts -- glass paneling, seals, drainage tubes, a pretty big frame with tracks, a motor or two, and usually, more. That means a car or SUV that ends up a little bigger than usual. With that little bit of extra weight, its handling can be affected. Depending on how one opens, it can mean having a little less headroom, too.
The Bottom Line: How Much Does a Sunroof or Moonroof Cost on Average?
Both are package options, most often, coming as standard features on new cars and SUVs or available from a dealer. Generally, they can run thousands of dollars, and the panoramic kind are more expensive. Either way, though, they're perks that are attractive enough to add some noticeable resale value, and even if you drive a used car or SUV without one, installation's always an option. (You can DIY it if you have the skillset, but there's always an INFINITI service center if you need help.)
We stock a huge selection of the parts you'll need for an upgrade (or to fix the sunroof or moonroof you already have) -- auto glass, motors, hardware, sunshades, you name it. They're genuine OEM, too, so INFINITI quality, the kind you've come to expect from your favorite luxury automaker, not to mention guaranteed to fit and work right the first time.
Order today; we'll ship anywhere in the US. Have questions? You're welcome to contact us.