Monkfrootx

Sunroof not opening or tilting. The motor (circular part in the picture) moves (rotates 45 degrees max) when I press the forward (open) button. If I press back, no motor sounds and nothing happens. If I press forward tilt, it'll rotate back 45 degrees. No motor sounds if I press back on the tilt. Bad motor or bad relay? If bad regulator, I've never actually seen the sunroof regulator so no idea how to fix. And my mechanic was a bit shy to tear off the interior (I've

never been good with removing the interior trims to remove the interior).

LeX2K

Bad switch? I've had it happen on similar Toyota mechanisms try pressing the close switch fairly hard over and over.

Monkfrootx

I don't think it's the switch (I tried two others from the junk yard and same reaction). Though I did find out my bulb was out lol. Forgot to say it's a 1994 Lexus ES300.

LeX2K

Grab the entire assembly from a junk yard, motor switch and controller. Don't have to drop the headliner remove both visors and front passenger grab handle gives enough room to work. Also could remove the motor and see if the roof can be opened by hand it may be stuck.

FromFL

Is that a screwdriver slot on top of the motor? Try turning it (?).

Monkfrootx

Sorry - do you mean the actual screw? Or what does turning it do?

LeX2K

Supposed to be able to move the roof manually. It never worked for me way too much force to the point I was going to strip out the slot. Can give it a try.

Monkfrootx

Followed your advice and managed to flex the headliner enough to replace the relay and the motor. Both motors (mine and junkyard one) act identically when outside of the regulator. I tried multiple switches already so I didn't try it again.

Once the motor is slotted in, something is preventing it from moving much. I guess that means the regulator or track or something must be jammed. Will be going to the junkyard to see if I can find out more.

LeX2K

Since you have access to parts at a salvage yard grab the entire sunroof assembly, verify it moves first of course. While you are there you'll learn how to drop the headliner it is not difficult just requires removing a bunch of parts.

Monkfrootx

Thanks. Dumb question, but how do I verify it moves? Can I do it before I install it in my car?

I did spend sometime yesterday taking out the headliner and sunroof assembly out of a 1993 Lexus ES300 (so decently familiar with it now). But did break a few plastic trims and such.

LeX2K

Pull the motor and move the roof manually. It will be hard-ish to move or possibly won't move at all meaning it is seized up.