I recently purchased my first Lexus, a certified pre-owned 2016 IS200t. I love the car, but I also love sunroofs and this one either has something wrong or is a manufacturer defect. When the sunroof is open at 50 mph or more, there is horrible wind buffeting, the kind that really hurts your ears. I've tried closing the window part way or cracking another window, and that just makes too much noise, and does nothing to stop the buffeting. Does anyone else have this problem? I took it to my dealer today and they could find nothing wrong with it. It is very disheartening to know that I cannot use my sunroof in sunny California!

 

This is the GS forum FYI.

These cars can do that unfortunately. Try not opening the sunroof all the way, try moving it forward just a little bit and see if that helps.

 

The sunroof has 2 opening positions...the first is about 80% open and will go to that point and stop. Leaving it there should not make the buffeting sound occur.
If you press the open again, and open 100%, then you are likely going to get the buffeting sound at high speeds.
that's why it stops at that initial 80% opening. It's not a defect...just don't open the roof 100% at high speeds.

 

^^^^^ This is your answer right here.

 

i always roll the back windows down about 4 inches.

 

Might want to look into the Vent Visor type shield that tapes on outside and in front of the Sunroof opening.
Cuts the buffeting and you can leave the roof open a bit while parked. Most are smoked color but I have
seen clear also.

 

Another thing I've noticed is that you can't really enjoy rolling around with just the front two windows down, or else a crap load of wind blows into your ear. BUT - If you roll down the back two windows the wind doesn't slap against your ear anymore.

Not related to the thread but just wanted to bring it up :P

 

I just crack the rear passenger window. Stops the noise and give a perfect draft inside.