What is the Top Window on a Car Called? Names for the Unique Roof Window

The small, often retractable window on the roof of some car models has an official name - it's referred to as the sunroof in automotive terminology. This distinct window placement has unique advantages and a long history across vehicle brands.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the various names for a car's top window, its characteristics and functionality, pros and cons, and evolution in automotive design. Whether you're curious what to call that tiny roof window or want to learn about the origins of sunroofs, read on for a deep dive into this special car feature.

Official Name: The Sunroof

The established industry term for a window located on the roof of a car is sunroof. This word precisely describes the position and purpose of the upward opening.

Sunroof is the standard universal descriptor used by:

Automotive manufacturers
Car dealers and salespeople
Mechanics and repair shops
Auto parts and accessory retailers
Detailing providers
Car enthusiasts and reviewers

So if you've ever wondered the right name for that unique top window, sunroof is the definitive answer. Let's examine why this roof window gets its name and distinctive features.

What is a Sunroof?

A sunroof is defined as:

A movable window panel on the roof of an automobile that can be opened for ventilation.

Key attributes include:

Located in the ceiling or roof of the car cabin
Can be opened partially or fully
Provides ventilation and open air when opened
Made of glass or laminated panoramic panels
Operated manually or electronically via controls
Available as a fixed option on many models

Sunroofs are distinct from larger moonroofs and from standard metal roof panels that don’t open. The ability to tilt or retract differentiates true sunroofs.

Sunroof vs Moonroof: Key Differences

Closely related to sunroofs are moonroofs - both describe roof windows, but with distinct characteristics:

Sunroof

Relatively small roof opening, around 20-30% of the roof
Can tilt up or retract open
Usually cannot open fully flush with the roofline
Manually operated crank or electric switch controls
Mostly transparent glass construction

Moonroof

Larger roof opening, up to 80% of the roof
Fully retracts and opens into the car's headliner
Glass panel opens flush with the roof for an open-air experience
Electric controls only for smooth powered operation
Can include tinted or opaque sunshade panels

While used interchangeably in casual conversation, true sunroofs and moonroofs have important mechanical differences. The larger, flush-retracting moonroof represents a more advanced design.

Nicknames and Slang Terms

Beyond formal names, car owners also use colorful slang for sunroofs:

Sunnies
Vitamin D Windows
Starlight Roofs
Sunshine Portals
Sol Skylights
Solar Tunnels
Skyview Slots

These creative nicknames highlight the sunroof’s ability to let warm sunlight and fresh breezes into the car's cabin.

Regional terms are also sometimes used, like “Cali Tops” in California where sunroofs are especially popular. But sunroof remains the most common nickname across all areas.

History of the Sunroof

Adding windows to car roofs originated very early in automotive history. Key milestones include:

1901 - An aftermarket sunroof was offered for the first mass-produced Oldsmobile Curved Dash model
1924 - The Nash Motor Company introduced the first factory sunroof option called the “California Top”
1935 - The Studebaker Dictator Coupe offered a steel sunroof option and marketed “Sunshine in the car”
1965 - Porsche launched its 911 model featuring a long retractable sunroof for increased headroom
1973 - The Chevrolet Corvette starting offering a removable targa top with T-bar roof section
2001 - Panoramic moonroofs became available from multiple brands featuring expansive glass panels

From early fixed panels to today’s expansive panoramic designs, sunroofs have long aimed to bring open skies into the passenger compartment.

Benefits of Sunroofs

Sunroofs and moonroofs offer unique advantages that enhance the driving experience:

Ventilation

Opening the roof window allows fresh outside air to circulate through the cabin. This enhances comfort on hot days or when the car's interior gets stuffy.

Sunlight

Sunroofs provide natural light from above that makes the car's interior feel more open and inviting. The added sunlight also helps plants and flowers thrive in rear cargo areas.

Stargazing

Retracting the roof window at night offers views of stars, meteors, auroras and other celestial sights from the seats. Families can stargaze together on trips or camping adventures.

Headroom

The added vertical space of an open sunroof or moonroof allows more upright sitting and improves head clearance. This extra room relieves claustrophobia and stiffness during long drives.

Versatility

Powered sunroofs allow adjusting natural ventilation and daylight from fully closed to tilted to fully open. This tailors the interior ambiance as needed.

Disadvantages of Sunroofs

Despite advantages, sunroofs also come with some drawbacks to consider:

Leaks

Sunroof seals can develop leaks over time leading to water damage on interior headliners and upholstery if left unrepaired.

Wind Noise

When open at highway speeds, sunroofs increase loud wind turbulence that interferes with conversations and music listening.

Glare

Angled sunlight can cause glare on a driver’s eyes when a sunroof is open on bright days. Tinted panels reduce this effect.

Weight

Glass or metal sunroof assemblies add more weight versus a fixed steel roof, slightly reducing fuel efficiency and handling.

Cost

Power sunroofs with large glass panels range from $1000-$2000 options on new cars. Repairs can also be expensive if motors or drains fail.

While adding enjoyment, sunroofs need maintenance like any car feature to minimize downsides. Proper care optimizes their advantages.

Sunroof Variants

Not all sunroofs are created equal - various designs provide different openings and features:

Pop-up Sunroofs

The original style, these have glass panels that tilt upwards and can also slide open horizontally. Manually cranked or power controlled.

Spoiler Sunroofs

Integrate the sunroof controls and opening into a raised rear spoiler. Provide a sporty look and good ventilation.

Inbuilt Sunroofs

Sunroof glass is fixed in place but an interior sunshade can retract to let in sky views. No ability to actively ventilate.

Removable Sunroofs

Monocoque composite panels fully remove for a customizable open-air experience. Seen on the Porsche 918.

Panoramic Sunroofs

Span nearly the entire roofline for dramatic skyward views. Usually power retracting with shade screens.

Two-Piece Targa Tops

Offer smaller power-sliding sunroof sections combined with behind-seat removable roof panels. Allow modular opening.

Availability in Vehicle Models

Today sunroofs are offered either standard or optional across nearly all vehicle types:

Sedans – Extremely popular options, especially larger panoramic versions. Available on economy cars to luxury models.
SUVs and Crossovers – Around 50% of SUV models now include a standard sunroof. They're a frequent upgrade due to the large roof space.
Sports Cars – Usually optional features to reduce weight, but some performance models like the Porsche Boxster have them standard.
Pickup Trucks – Were once rare truck options, but now commonly available from 1/2 to 3/4 ton pickups. Allow sky views for rear seat passengers.
Vans – Optional on family and passenger vans. Let rear bench occupants enjoy fresh air and scenery.

From practical commuters to off-road adventure vehicles, sunroofs offer versatile open-air enjoyment across all types of automobiles today.

Are Sunroofs Worth It?

Whether it’s a good idea to splurge on the sunroof upgrade depends on your priorities:

For Drivers Who...

Want more natural light and airflow
Regularly drive with multiple rear passengers
Value stargazing at night
Prefer open outdoor driving feels
Live in warmer sunny climates

The Investment is Likely Worth It!

For Those Who...

Rarely open roof windows
Mainly drive short local commutes alone
Live in cold or rainy areas
Worry about maintenance issues
Are satisfied with car's interior as is

The Added Cost May Not Provide Benefits

Take your driving habits and local climate into account when deciding on the sunroof option for your next vehicle.

Sunroof Maintenance Tips

To keep your sunroof working smoothly for the long haul:

Periodically clean sunroof tracks with rubbing alcohol to reduce debris grinding.
Lubricate rubber seals every six months with silicone lubricant to prevent cracking.
Clear drain holes along the sunroof frame to prevent water pooling.
Avoid opening sunroofs on dusty roads to prevent gritty grinding.
Have sunroof motors inspected if openings and closing seems strained.
Immediately address any wind noise or leaking issues that arise.

Proper sunroof maintenance prevents costly repairs down the road. Consult your owner’s manual for brand-specific upkeep recommendations.

Emergency Sunroof Repairs

If your sunroof is stuck open due to electrical or mechanical issues, emergency fixes include:

Carefully tape down plastic sheeting along the edges to temporarily seal the opening.
Use press-on foam weatherstrip to block gaps if tape alone doesn’t prevent exterior water intrusion.
Wedge a wooden yardstick or paint stir stick to manually close the sunroof temporarily until full repairs.
Have car towed on flatbed versus driving if road debris or rain could damage the open sunroof cavity.

While not permanent solutions, these tips can quickly contain sunroof problems to prevent further damage as you head to the auto shop.

Sunroof Regulations and Building Codes

Some considerations around sunroof limitations:

Tinting laws usually prohibit aftermarket sunroof tinting that blocks over 30% of light transmission.
Race events often require removing glass sunroof panels or taping over permanently fixed ones.
Building codes only allow a maximum 50% roof area coverage by sunroofs and skylights to maintain structural integrity.
CA title laws count pop-up sunroofs the same as convertibles due to ventilation.

Make sure to comply with relevant laws on sunroof additions and modifications. Check state statues for requirements.

The Future of Sunroofs

Where is sunroof technology heading in coming years? Some interesting innovations on the horizon include:

Frameless flush-mount sunroofs for sleeker seamless integration
Polymer-dispersed liquid crystal glass that can tint electronically via voltage
Sun tracking sensors that automatically adjust tint based on sun position
Antibacterial transparent coatings to inhibit glass fog and mold
Built-in noise cancelling microphone systems to reduce wind noise
Safety sensor systems to detect obstructions before electrically closing
Self-healing glass coatings that repair minor scratches over time
Thinner but stronger materials to maximize open-air overhead views

With car buyers valuing sunroof options more than ever, we’ll see continued innovation in this special car feature.

FAQs

Does a sunroof reduce a car's value?

When properly maintained, a sunroof typically increases resale value. But with chronic leaks or mechanical issues, they can detract value and make vehicles harder to sell.

Can I open my sunroof in the rain?

You generally want to avoid opening sunroofs in heavy rain or storms. Light misting is fine, but heavy rain can soak the car's interior through the opening.

Do sunroofs provide UV protection?

Tinted sunroof glass blocks over 99% of UV rays, greater than side windows. But uncovered skin still needs sunscreen through open sunroofs.

Can a dealership add a sunroof after purchase?

Most car brands don't allow retrofitting sunroofs if the model didn't initially come with one. Headliner and roof reinforcements differ with original factory builds.

Is it mandatory to take out insurance on a sunroof?

Sunroofs don't require separate insurance in most states. Your standard comprehensive auto policy covers any damage that occurs to them.

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