Why Is Your Volvo XC90 Sunroof Not Working (How To Fix It!)

Discovering the Volvo xc90 sunroof not working should lead you to urgently figure out which components are behind the disaster. More precisely, exactly what causes a sunroof to stop working on Volvo xc90?

Alarm module failure, malfunctioning electronic units such as damaged wire, switch, motor, relay, or electrical module, loose/tight screws on the sunroof track, and stuck or broken track can cause a sunroof to stop working.

In this guide let’s address all these issues one by one.

Fixes To Try When Volvo XC90 Sunroof Not Working

Here are the most common culprits with their suggested solutions for a failing sunroof in Volvo xc90. Keep in mind, that it could be one or more of these problems making the sunroof unable to function.

Cause #1: Alarm Siren Malfunction

Issues with the siren can make the entire alarm system fall apart. This can hamper the functioning of the alarm module. 

As a result, the sunroof is also affected and unable to operate. In some cases, you may be able to revive the situation by disconnecting the alarm or simply bypassing it. Until you find a more permanent solution. Which often is nothing but a complete replacement of the alarm module.

Also, it’s worth noting that sometimes due to door lock issues in xc90, the alarm module also starts malfunctioning. So, you may want to check that out as well. 

How to Fix Alarm Siren Malfunction

Use a flathead screwdriver to disconnect the alarm module wire of the vehicle. You should access it by removing the tire on the passenger side. 

Simply pull out the cover from there using a drill to the screws attaching it to the wheel. When installing a new alarm module, you simply need to connect it to the accessed wire.

Cause #2: Power Related Issues

Several electrical problems can also make the sunroof unable to function in the Volvo xc90. This could be either of the following situations:

• Switch or wires could be damaged. You can test this by connecting a wire to both ends of the switch connector accessible under the switchboard. If the sunroof moves once you place the wire, the switch will need replacing. 

However, if it does not, then individually test wires using a multimeter to find out which wire needs replacement.

• A blown fuse can also be responsible. To discover you need to check under the glove compartment of the passenger seat. This is the fuse box where you may find black-blown fuses on spots that connect the wire. 

Sometimes visual inspection may not be enough, a circuit tester will be required. If there’s no current, the fuse will need replacement.

• The motor could be completely damaged. Using a multimeter, you can check the motor by attaching one probe end to the casing and another to its winding. The presence of 0-ohm resistance confirms the doubt of a faulty motor and you need to replace it.
• A faulty relay can also be the case. If you cannot hear any noise of a motor, this could be a sign. Weak relays can also contribute to low beam bulb failure in xc90. You may require a reset or relay replacement to solve the problem. 
• A malfunctioning sunroof electrical module can also lead to the issue. The module will require a simple reset to go back to normal.

Cause #3: Problems with The Sunroof Track

Due to driving on bumpy rough roads, it’s quite common for sunroof track screws to come off. Sometimes, you even lose the screws on the guides and track. This causes misalignment and incorrect position.

Furthermore, if the xc90 sunroof won’t open in the vent position smoothly then it is likely that the screws along the track are too tight.

It is also possible that some sort of obstacle in the sunroof track is making it unable to work. Again, harsh conditions on the road make the sunroof exposed to tiny stones and dust that can cause the construction.

Furthermore, the sunroof won’t close perfectly if the track has any broken parts or even with chipped corners on the glass. This can escalate too quickly into sunroof leakage issues that may need you to replace the entire unit sooner or later.

How to Fix Sunroof Track

• Use a screwdriver to tighten any loose screws you find near the track.
• Make sure the track is in its original position by adjusting it using the rubber encasing.
• If the screws are way too tight, use the screws to loosen the bolts up a little bit.
• Use a good quality penetrating oil with graphite powder to grease the stuck rail track.
• Too damaged sunroof track will need replacement.

Cause #4: Out Of Sync Sunroof

If your xc90 sunroof fails to line up with the control or simply gets stuck after opening or closing halfway, this could be a calibration issue. 

You may also notice awful noise when the sunroof moves. To address this problem, there’s barely any need to take complicated steps. A simple reset should be enough.

So how do you calibrate an XC90 sunroof and fix this condition?

To calibrate an Xc90 sunroof, you simply need to put the ignition switch to position 1 while getting the sunroof switch to tilt operation. Once the sunroof is in tilt position release the switch to press it again for at least 5 seconds. This will make the sunroof closed and the calibration should be done. 

Before unscrewing any adjustment bolts, try out the calibration and it might be worth a shot.

Wrapping Up

And there you have some straightforward causes behind the Volvo xc90 sunroof not working. Again, this is a general troubleshooting approach to this issue. Sometimes, the underlying cause could be way too complicated to handle on your own without an expert idea. 

So, if you don’t think any of these problems are responsible for the sunroof failure, I would suggest not delaying getting help from a professional.

There will be more dedicated guides on xc90 like this one. You may also want to check out my thoughts on fixing BLIS errors on xc90. See you in my next guide, take care!