GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Notice: This sunroof system is timed from the factory so that the sunroof actuator automatically shuts off when the window panel reaches a certain position. Be careful not to disrupt this factory timing when removing the sunroof actuator from the sunroof module. Disrupting the factory timing may cause damage to the sunroof system. Close the window panel whenever you remove the sunroof actuator from the sunroof module assembly.

  1. Close the sunroof (if possible).
  2. Remove the sunroof finishing trim lace. Refer to Sunroof Opening Trim Finish Lace Replacement .
  3. Remove the sunroof sunshade. Refer to Sunroof Sunshade Replacement .
  4. Remove the headlining trim finish panel. Refer to Headlining Trim Panel Replacement in Interior Trim.
  5. • Disconnect the sunroof control switch
    • Disconnect the dome lamp

    Object Number: 280687  Size: MH
  6. Remove the Express Module from the sunroof  (8). Refer to Power Sunroof Express Module Replacement .
  7. Disconnect the wire harness's from the express module and remove the tie wraps securing the harness to the drive and return tubes.
  8. If the sunroof window is not fully closed complete the following steps.
  9. Important: The motor cannot be reused if this procedure is followed.

    7.1. Locate the Allen head screw on the drive gear of the sunroof motor.

    The Allen head screw is accessible with the sunroof motor in place.

    7.2. If there is a red retainer surrounding the Allen head screw remove the red retainer.

    Us a small flat blade screwdriver.

    7.3. Turn the Allen head screw until the sunroof glass is fully closed.

    Use the appropriate size Allen wrench.

    You may need to apply a significant amount of force in order to move the sunroof motor with the Allen wrench.

    7.4. After the sunroof glass is fully closed, unscrew the screw approximately 15 degrees.
  10. Remove the sunroof motor bracket bolts.
  11. Remove the sunroof motor  (7).

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 280687  Size: MH
  1. Before you install a new motor or re-install the old motor (7), ensure that the motor is timed to the closed position. Refer to Power Sunroof Motor Installation Procedure.

  2. Object Number: 282455  Size: SH
  3. Verify that the original sunroof motor or the new sunroof motor is timed to the closed position.
  4. 2.1. The hole in the large timing gear, the notch in the disk below the drive gear and the scribe mark on the drive gear should all be in line with each other.
    2.2. If the motor is not timed to the closed position, connect the switch, headliner harness and express module to the sunroof motor and run the motor into the closed position. Verify timing per the first step.

    Object Number: 282455  Size: SH
  5. Install the sunroof motor.
  6. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  7. Install the sunroof motor bracket bolts.
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the sunroof motor bracket bolts to the fully driven and fully seated position. Do not strip the bolts.

  9. Connect the wire harness connectors to the express module and install the express module. Refer to Power Sunroof Express Module Replacement .

  10. Object Number: 280687  Size: MH
  11. Tie wrap the drive tube, return tube and wire harness in place (5 and 6).
  12. Install the headliner. Refer to Headlining Trim Panel Replacement .
  13. • Connect the sunroof control switch
    • Connect the dome lamp
  14. Install the sunroof sunshade  (3). Refer to Sunroof Sunshade Replacement .
  15. Install the finishing lace (1). Refer to Sunroof Opening Trim Finish Lace Replacement .