Pop-up sunroofs, which can only be manually activated to either their open or closed position and remain fixed in place, are the least expensive option. Available in acrylic, glass or matched-color steel, pop-up sunroofs usually have hinges on the front-facing side and a latch on the rear facing side. When the latch is released, the sunroof opens 3-4 inches, allowing air to flow through the vehicle.
There are two types of sliding sunroofs: the spoiler and the slider.
The spoiler type sunroof slides back and forth on tracks mounted to the exterior roof of the vehicle. Spoiler sunroofs pop up and then slide back to create the opening in the vehicle and may be electrically or manually triggered. Available in acrylic, glass and matched-color steel panels.
Sliding sunroofs have channels that are located between the vehicle headliner and the car roof, allowing the sunroof panel to “disappear” within the interior of the roof. They are usually triggered electronically and are available in acrylic, glass and matched-color steel panels.
T-tops sunroofs involve removing two sections of the car roof, keeping the center intact, and replacing them with moulded removable panels. Available in acrylic, glass and matched-color steel. These sunroofs are relatively expensive because of the extensive bodywork required so the panels fit properly and are popular on sports cars.
Like T-top sunroofs, Targa-top sunroofs involve removing a large section of the car roof and replacing it with a molded panel. However, on targa-type sunroofs, the middle section of the roof is also removed, allowing for a very large open space when the panel is removed. Available in acrylic, glass and matched-color steel. These sunroofs are relatively expensive because of the extensive bodywork required so the panel fits. Popular on sports cars.
Normally, panoramic sunroofs are constructed in two or more panels that cover a large area of the car roof, usually over the front and rear seating areas. The panels usually slide in channels mounted on the car roof, one panel sliding over the other, but pop ups may be available for some cars. Normally, panoramic sunroofs are the most expensive to install because of the complexity of the their mechanisms and their sheer size. Available with an electric trigger and on some vehicles may be manually operated.
