Is your sunroof stuck, making clicking noises, or refusing to open? A faulty sunroof motor can turn a pleasant drive into a frustrating experience. Replacing it restores fresh air and light to your cabin, enhancing your driving comfort and safety.
This guide reviews the top sunroof motors for popular Ford Explorer and GM models, plus a repair gear for Mini Cooper. We break down fitment, specifications, and key features to help you choose the right replacement for your vehicle, ensuring a smooth and reliable operation.
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A-Premium Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible with Ford
Best forFord Explorer basic replacement
- OE fit and function
- Durable metal construction
ConsiderNo tilt function
GEARLAST Sunroof Motor for Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Left and Right
Best forLong drives with fresh air
- Enhances driving alertness
- Direct OEM replacement
ConsiderNo tilt function
XunDong Sunroof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility…
Best forFixing stuck sunroof issues
- High-quality construction
- Direct OEM replacement
ConsiderNo tilt function
GlobalPrince Sunroof Moon Roof Motor 2-PCS Set Compatible with Ford Explore…
Best forReplacing both side motors
- Includes left and right motors
- Precise 14-pin connection
ConsiderNo tilt function
Dorman 747-991 Sunroof Motor Compatible with Select Ford Models
Best forTrusted brand replacement
- Direct replacement
- Durable construction
ConsiderCheck fitment carefully
KAVIUS Sunroof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer Sport Utility 2011-2017 …
Best forHigh-performance replacement
- High performance
- Upgraded materials
ConsiderCheck part number
GM Genuine Parts 84287215 Rear Sunroof Sunshade Motor with Control Module
Best forGM OEM replacement
- Genuine GM quality
- Includes control module
ConsiderLimited to GM models
Dorman 747-992 Sunroof Motor Compatible with Select Lincoln Models
Best forLincoln model replacement
- Direct replacement
- Durable construction
ConsiderCheck fitment carefully
BROSSBSR518 Sunroof Motor Repair Gear with Shaft Compatible With Mini Coope…
Best forMini Cooper gear repair
- Cost-effective repair
- Specific fitment
ConsiderRequires DIY installation
A-Premium Left and Right Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible with Ford
Best forDual-side Ford replacement
- Includes both sides
- OE fit and function
ConsiderNo tilt function
A-Premium Sunroof Motor – Reliable OE Fit
Brand: A-Premium
A dependable, no-frills replacement for Ford Explorer sunroofs.
The A-Premium sunroof motor is engineered to match the original equipment fit, form, and function for your Ford Explorer 2011-2017 (before 2/11/2017). It features a durable metal and plastic construction that resists wear, ensuring long-lasting performance. With a 14-pin terminal and screw-in attachment, it installs easily and connects securely.
This motor is designed for opening and closing only, so it won’t provide tilt functionality. It’s a solid choice if you need a straightforward replacement that restores basic sunroof operation. The reference numbers (BB5Z15790A, BB5Z15790D, MM-1147) confirm compatibility, giving you confidence in your purchase.
- OE fit and function
- Durable metal construction
- Easy screw-in installation
- No tilt function
- Single side only
GEARLAST Sunroof Motor – Enhanced Driving Safety
Brand: GEARLAST
A safety-focused sunroof motor that keeps you fresh on the road.
The GEARLAST sunroof motor is compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 and is designed to enhance your driving safety. By allowing fresh air to circulate during long drives, it helps maintain oxygen levels and reduce carbon dioxide buildup, keeping you alert and comfortable. This motor is a direct replacement for part numbers BB5Z-15790-A, BB5Z15790A, and MM-1147.
It features a 14-pin terminal and screw-in connection for a secure fit. The electric motor is built from metal and plastic, ensuring durability. While it doesn’t include tilt functionality, it reliably handles the open and close operations, making it a practical upgrade for your vehicle.
- Enhances driving alertness
- Direct OEM replacement
- Durable construction
- No tilt function
- Check fitment carefully
XunDong Sunroof Motor – Quality and Reliability
The XunDong sunroof motor is crafted to meet strict standards, ensuring safety, durability, and reliability for your Ford Explorer 2011-2017. It directly replaces OE numbers BB5Z-15790-A, BB5Z15790A, and BB5Z15790D. This motor is ideal if you notice your sunroof won’t open or close, gets stuck, or makes a clicking sound—common signs of a failing motor.
It’s designed to keep fresh air flowing during long journeys, increasing alertness. However, note that it lacks tilt and automatic closing functions. If you need a straightforward, high-quality replacement that restores basic sunroof operation, this is a strong contender.
- High-quality construction
- Direct OEM replacement
- Improves cabin airflow
- No tilt function
- No auto-close feature
GlobalPrince Sunroof Motor 2-Pack – Complete Coverage
The GlobalPrince sunroof motor set includes two motors, one for the left and one for the right side, compatible with Ford Explorer Sport Utility 2011-2017 (before Feb 11, 2017). This 2-PCS set ensures you have both sides covered, which is convenient if both motors need replacement. It replaces part numbers BB5Z-15790-A, BB5Z15790A, and BB5Z15790D.
Each motor features a precise 14-pin terminal connection and is designed for smooth, precise sunroof operation. The electric motor provides reliable torque to drive the panel open and closed. This set is a cost-effective solution for comprehensive sunroof restoration, though it doesn’t include tilt functionality.
- Includes left and right motors
- Precise 14-pin connection
- Reliable torque output
- No tilt function
- Check fitment before purchase
Dorman 747-991 Sunroof Motor – Trusted Quality
The Dorman 747-991 sunroof motor is a direct replacement designed to seamlessly replace a failed or malfunctioning original equipment motor, restoring its functions. It’s application-specific, so you must verify compatibility with your Ford model. Dorman is known for durable construction, using quality components for reliable performance and long service life.
Backed by a team of product experts in the United States and over a century of automotive experience, this motor offers trustworthy quality. It’s a solid choice if you prefer a brand with a strong reputation. Ensure your vehicle matches the fitment details to avoid issues.
- Direct replacement
- Durable construction
- Expert-backed quality
- Check fitment carefully
- May not include all features
KAVIUS Sunroof Motor – High Performance Upgrade
Brand: Kavius
A durable, high-performance motor for reliable sunroof operation.
The KAVIUS sunroof motor is compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 and replaces part numbers BB53-15B689-AB, BB5Z15790A, and BB5Z15790D. It’s a high-performance motor that ensures your sunroof works properly, allowing you to open it for fresh air. The metal construction is strong and durable, built to last.
This motor is made from upgraded materials, enhancing its reliability. It’s a direct replacement that restores full sunroof functionality. If you’re looking for a robust motor that performs well, this is a great option. Just verify the part number matches your vehicle.
- High performance
- Upgraded materials
- Direct replacement
- Check part number
- No tilt function
GM Genuine Parts Sunroof Motor – OEM Quality
Brand: GM GENUINE PARTS
A top-tier OEM motor for GM vehicles seeking factory reliability.
The GM Genuine Parts 84287215 rear sunroof sunshade motor with control module is a GM-recommended replacement for your GM vehicle’s original factory component. It offers the quality, reliability, and durability of GM OE parts, ensuring a perfect fit and function. This motor is manufactured to GM OE specifications, so you can trust its performance.
This is ideal for GM owners who want an exact OEM replacement. The included control module adds convenience. While it’s specific to GM models, it’s a premium choice for maintaining your vehicle’s integrity.
- Genuine GM quality
- Includes control module
- OE specification fit
- Limited to GM models
- Premium price
Dorman 747-992 Sunroof Motor – Lincoln Fit
Brand: Dorman
A reliable sunroof motor for Lincoln vehicles from a trusted brand.
The Dorman 747-992 sunroof motor is designed for select Lincoln models, offering a direct replacement for a failed or malfunctioning original motor. It restores the functions of the original, ensuring your sunroof operates smoothly. Dorman’s durable construction uses quality components for reliable performance and long service life.
This motor is application-specific, so verify it fits your Lincoln’s make, model, and year. Backed by Dorman’s team of product experts and over a century of automotive experience, it’s a trustworthy choice. If you need a dependable replacement for your Lincoln, this is worth considering.
- Direct replacement
- Durable construction
- Expert-backed quality
- Check fitment carefully
- Limited to Lincoln models
BROSS Sunroof Repair Gear – Mini Cooper Fix
The BROSSBSR518 sunroof motor repair gear with shaft is compatible with Mini Cooper models, featuring a diameter of 48 mm and 62 teeth. This repair gear is designed to fix a common issue where the sunroof motor’s internal gear wears out, causing the sunroof to malfunction. It’s a cost-effective solution compared to replacing the entire motor.
This gear is specifically for Mini Cooper, so ensure compatibility with your model. It’s a practical repair part for DIY enthusiasts. If your sunroof is making noise or not moving, this gear might be the culprit, and this replacement can restore proper operation.
- Cost-effective repair
- Specific fitment
- Restores sunroof function
- Requires DIY installation
- Only for Mini Cooper
A-Premium Sunroof Motor 2-Pack – Dual Side
The A-Premium sunroof motor set includes both left and right motors, compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 (before 2/11/2017). This 2-pack is convenient if you need to replace both sides. Each motor features a 14-pin terminal and screw-in attachment for a secure fit. The durable metal and plastic construction ensures reliability.
Designed for opening and closing only, it doesn’t include tilt functionality. The reference numbers (BB5Z15790A, BB5Z15790D, MM-1147) confirm compatibility. This set offers a complete solution for dual-side replacement, saving you time and effort.
- Includes both sides
- OE fit and function
- Durable construction
- No tilt function
- Check fitment before purchase
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right sunroof motor involves more than just picking a part. Consider your vehicle’s specific requirements, the motor’s features, and your budget. This guide highlights key factors to help you make an informed decision.
- Vehicle Compatibility: Always verify that the sunroof motor matches your vehicle's make, model, and year. Check the part numbers and fitment notes, such as the production date for Ford Explorer (before 2/11/2017). Using the wrong motor can lead to installation issues or improper function.
- Motor Type and Features: Decide if you need a motor with tilt functionality or just open/close. Some motors, like those from A-Premium and XunDong, only offer basic operation. Others may include additional features like control modules. Choose based on your sunroof's design and your needs.
- OEM vs. Aftermarket: OEM parts, like GM Genuine, offer guaranteed fit and quality but may cost more. Aftermarket options, such as Dorman or A-Premium, provide reliable performance at a lower price. Consider your budget and preference for brand reliability.
- Installation Complexity: Some motors are direct replacements with screw-in connections, making them easier to install. Others, like the BROSS repair gear, require more technical skill. Assess your DIY ability and whether you need professional installation.
- Durability and Materials: Look for motors made from durable materials like metal and plastic. Brands like KAVIUS emphasize upgraded materials for strength. A well-constructed motor ensures long-lasting performance and reduces the need for frequent replacements.
Conclusion
Replacing a faulty sunroof motor restores comfort and convenience to your driving experience. Whether you drive a Ford Explorer, a GM model, or a Mini Cooper, there’s a suitable option in this list. From reliable aftermarket choices like A-Premium and GEARLAST to trusted OEM parts like GM Genuine, you can find a motor that fits your needs and budget.
For most Ford Explorer owners, the A-Premium or Dorman motors offer excellent value and reliability. If you need a dual-side replacement, the GlobalPrince 2-pack is a smart choice. Always verify compatibility before purchasing, and consider professional installation if you’re not confident in DIY. Choose a motor that matches your vehicle’s specifications and enjoy a smoothly operating sunroof.
Erica Steven is the founder and lead writer of WorstBrands, a site dedicated to providing honest and trustworthy reviews about outdoor gear and fashion products.
With a passion for exploring the great outdoors and staying up to date on the latest fashion trends, Erica uses her expertise to provide valuable insights into the products that matter most to her readers.
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