[jjthink]

If I get a 2008 with no sunroof/moonroof, is there anything technically about this car that would prevent installation of a sunroof above the front seats?

A sunroof company told me it's no problem but they have yet to confirm that in writing. I don't want to buy one without a sunroof only to find out I can't have one installed in the front. If that was the case, I would just get one with the sun/moon roof already in the back.

Would be grateful for info on this because there is a 2008 E I am considering that does not have a sunroof.

Much appreciated.

 

[vfxraven19]

It's doable. Chozn4service has his E with a front moon roof installed. Shoot him a PM.

 

[ramblerdan]

Several owners have installed extra sunroofs. Search terms "sunroof" and "Webasto" should return relevant threads.

 

[jjthink]

Thank You vfxraven and rambler!!

Thanks very much vfxraven19 and ramblerdan - I really appreciate your help!

 

[wrongrobot]

That is probably the most awesome aftermarket accessory I've seen yet. I really think the E suffers from lack of sun/moon/ISS roof. I would imagine you would have some warranty issues with that install?

 

[jjthink]

Sunroof place says NO GO

So confusing. A sunroof install place went and checked a 2008 Honda Element for me and they this:

"Today I went to a local honda dealership and looked at a 2008 element. Sorry to say a sunroof cant be installed into this truck. The problem is the ribs on the roof. All of the sunroofs we have fall into the center of the two outside ribs. (on the downward side) This presents a major sealing problem! We carry two of the major aftermarket sunroof makers in the world. One of the older units witch are not made anymore would have fit, but again the stopped making them. Just a note if you find someone who says they can do this make sure they can bridge the ribs and seal them properly!"

JJ

 

[ramblerdan]

IIRC it is necessary to move one or more lateral supports to do this job. On EX models, the overhead storage bin and lights have to go. But it is doable.

 

[chozn4service]

I lost the storage box but it was no big deal to me since I had installed the SC console for the extra space. I seldom used the overhead box anyway. My map lights were not lost, I still have them and the company did a good job making them look factory installed. As for the lateral supports or cross bars, my roof was placed in between them so there was no loss of integrity for support. I watched the work being done and had consulted with the company back in 2003 with my first Element but didn't get it done until I got the one that I have now. I'm real happy with it having had it now for 2yrs now. Now leaks, creaks, or malfunctions. Also Indianapolis Auto Spa did the install and they used a special rubber seal for for the ridged roof which had to set up overnight before I got the the car back. Dancetiludrop's install which I scheduled along with mine took a little longer since he had them install a new suede headliner and sound dampening material and this pushed me from getting my car back on the day promised. Thus, they gave me free heated front seats for the inconvenience. Nothing like butt warmers. I say if you want a sunroof, go for it. Webasto makes a great product and if you go on their site, they have a list of certified installers that have attended their training facility in order to warranty the work and carry the Webasto name.

I know Dance loves his and so do I. Probably the best $1100 I've spent on any vehicle.

Peace!

 

[Bowzer]

I lost the storage box but it was no big deal to me since I had installed the SC console for the extra space. I seldom used the overhead box anyway. My map lights were not lost, I still have them and the company did a good job making them look factory installed. As for the lateral supports or cross bars, my roof was placed in between them so there was no loss of integrity for support. I watched the work being done and had consulted with the company back in 2003 with my first Element but didn't get it done until I got the one that I have now. I'm real happy with it having had it now for 2yrs now. Now leaks, creaks, or malfunctions. Also Indianapolis Auto Spa did the install and they used a special rubber seal for for the ridged roof which had to set up overnight before I got the the car back. Dancetiludrop's install which I scheduled along with mine took a little longer since he had them install a new suede headliner and sound dampening material and this pushed me from getting my car back on the day promised. Thus, they gave me free heated front seats for the inconvenience. Nothing like butt warmers. I say if you want a sunroof, go for it. Webasto makes a great product and if you go on their site, they have a list of certified installers that have attended their training facility in order to warranty the work and carry the Webasto name.

I know Dance loves his and so do I. Probably the best $1100 I've spent on any vehicle.

Peace!

Appreciate the feedback on your experience. This is high among the long pending list of wants for my EX.

 

[dulimpsty]

I think this is enough .....
I do agree with you. Those are the most effective way