California Sunroof jerks when opening
 

I've looked at the forums and found many issues with leaky roofs. I've got a different problem with the roof jerking when it opens. The roof opens just fine, it just jerks when it opens. I don't know if something is stuck inside or what happened. Just started all of the sudden. Anyone else experienced something similar? Any suggestions welcomed!

Nadia

Could be a motor issue or something in the track causing the roof to stick in certain places.

Probably best to start with the easier, less expensive options and try checking the track and ribs of the roof to make sure there's nothing causing it to stick or jerk. Then you can think about changing out the motor. And as a last resort, you can replace the entire unit.

I had my motor die out on me, and because my top was scratched up a bit and a few of the ribs were broken, I replaced the whole thing. Things are much better now, but it did cost nearly $2000 when it was all done.

I had the same problem and it was the motor. It was a jerky motion like one of the drive gears was missing a tooth. It is a easy replacement, just a couple of bolts holding the motor in place. The trim piece covering the motor is just velcro fastened to the roof. I got my replacement from Bell Imports for $203 plus shipping.

2002mcs;

That's exactly what it sounds like! I was just afraid to invest in a motor and not have it be that! Thanks, I think I'll have my dad take the motor out and we'll see if that is the case.

i've had a similar problem with my cali top and it resulted in a couple diff repairs over the years. First was simply the motor wearing out - i've replaced the motor on mine a couple times. This past summer the pulley system that moves the roof needed replaced which was $$.

Now one of the ribs that secures the headlines is no longer staying attached. Curious if any of you have had this problem and would recommend best fix?

I know the jerkiness is typically the motor loosing teeth on the plastic gears. I have a pulley issue to repair on one of my spare tops.

Don't know about the ribs detaching yet. 😎


1998 & 1997 318ti Sport Schwartz II
1995 318ti Active Alpineweib III