Actually I have an observation and a few questions.

My '11 XJ electric sunshade (not the sunroof) makes a clanking sound and will not close. Apparently some gears are stripped and there is a problem with the motor. The dealer gave me a quote of $6K to repair it. Does that sound reasonable to anyone? Anyone had experience with this that they can relate? Whatever, I won't be doing that. That is about a quarter of the value of the car. That takes me to a different kind of question.

The solution seems to me to put a tint on the sunroof itself to reduce the heat in the car. Yet I have read on a few sites that this can cause the glass to crack. Anyone had experience with tinting their sunroof?

Thanks so much for your help.

 

$6k! What did you do to make your dealer dislike you so much?

The motors are either $200 or $300 depending on your VIN (one per side). New fixing kits if needed are $10 each. Service kits are available with replacement cables and gears, for about $200 per side but if it is just a gear then take the damaged one to your local machine shop and have them make you a replacement.

It should only take you an afternoon to drop the headlining, service the blinds and reassemble.

As you've been given a diagnosis I am assuming your dealer has checked the more common issues like the feet and guide rails, and has actually diagnosed striped gears. Do you know if the calibration was reset? (Ignition on, ensure the roof is fully closed, press and hold the front of the roof switch (close position) for 45 seconds then the blinds and roof will open and keep the switch held down until the roof is fully closed.)

Is your sunroof glass not tinted already?

 

xdave, would you happen to have the available instructions on how to drop the headliner (2011-2015)? Assuming they are the same in all models except for material - standard cloth, alcantara upgrade, and full leather (Supersport). Thanks!

 

Sure, attached.

With big pressed panels like those you need to be very careful not to bend them (use big flat pry bars and keep your hands close together when pulling).

 

xdave I want to thank you for your extreme knowledge, recommended procedures, and documented instructions. Your wealth of knowledge is a true asset to this forum and I try and thank you each time your contribution is beyond helpful.

 

Much appreciated. And thanks for the tip.