2012 Subaru Outback Base, Standard TransFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Sunroof Control System: Inspection: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Subaru Tribeca. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Symptom Inspection order
Water leakage
  1. Check roof panel and glass lid for improper or poor sealing.
  2. Check drain tube for clogging.
  3. Check sunroof frame seal and body for improper fit.
Booming noise, wind noise and other noise
  1. Check glass lid and roof panel for improper clearance.
  2. Check sunshade and roof trim for improper clearance.
Abnormal motor noise
  1. Check installing part of motor for looseness.
  2. Check gears and bearings for wear.
  3. Check cable for wear.
  4. Check cable pipe for deformities.
Failure of sunroof (Motor operates properly.)
  1. Check guide rail for foreign particles.
  2. Check guide rail for improper installation.
  3. Check parts for mutual interference.
  4. Check cable slider for improper clinching.
  5. Check cable for improper installation.
Motor does not rotate or rotate improperly.
  1. Check fuse for blown out.
  2. Check switch for improper function.
  3. Check motor for incorrect terminal voltage.
  4. Check the relay for improper operation.
  5. Check poor grounding system.
  6. Check harness for open or short and terminals for poor connections.
Failure turn of glass lid Check guide rail for foreign particles.
  • Failure turn of glass lid while driving rough road.

Glass lid has auto-reverse function. When applied above specified force to the glass lid, the lid turns back and stops. When operating the glass lid (open or close) while driving the rough road, the lid judges vibration as a force and may causes failure turns. When the failure turn is occurred, need to perform the initialize operation with following procedure.

Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.