How to Reset the Sunroof on a Mercedes W204

If the sunroof in your Mercedes W204 (C-Class, model years 2008–2014) is not working properly—maybe it’s stuck, won’t close completely, won’t open fully, or is not responding to button presses—a simple reset procedure can often restore normal function. This reset is helpful after a dead battery, power interruption, fuse change, or any sunroof glitch. Below you’ll find a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to resetting the sunroof system on your W204.

Why Reset the Sunroof?

• Sunroof is stuck partially open or closed
• Sunroof won’t tilt or slide after battery change or electrical work
• The sunroof “forgets” its positions (auto open/close doesn’t work)
• You hear clicking or the motor tries but nothing happens
• Sunroof is slow, jerky, or only moves in small increments

What You Need

• No tools required—just your car key and access to the sunroof button
• Car must be in Park with ignition on (key to position 2 or “run,” but engine can be off)
• Make sure the battery is charged and windows are closed (to avoid confusion with other electrical issues)

Step-by-Step: Mercedes W204 Sunroof Reset Procedure

1. Switch on Ignition:
   
   Insert the key and turn it to position 2 (accessories “on” or “run”), but do not start the engine. If you have Keyless Go, press the Start/Stop button without pressing the brake pedal.
2. Move Sunroof to Fully Closed Position:
   
   Use the sunroof switch to close the sunroof completely (slide or tilt mode, whichever is available). Hold the switch in the “close” position for a few extra seconds, even after the roof stops moving. If the roof is stuck open, try to bring it to the closed position as much as possible.
3. Press and Hold the Sunroof Switch (Reset Initiation):
   
   With the sunroof fully closed, press the sunroof switch upward (tilt position) and hold it for at least 5–10 seconds.
   – You may hear a “click” or the sunroof may move slightly.
   – Continue holding the switch up until you hear another click or the sunroof jogs.
   – In some cases, the sunroof will automatically slide open a little, then close, as part of the reset sequence.
4. Release and Test Sunroof Operation:
   
   Let go of the switch. Now, test all functions:
   • Press the switch back (slide open) — does the sunroof slide open smoothly?
   • Pull the switch forward (slide close) — does it close fully and automatically?
   • Push up (tilt open) and down (tilt close) — does the tilt function work?

   The sunroof should now operate normally, with all “one-touch” features restored.

5. If It Still Doesn’t Work:
   
   – Repeat the above procedure, making sure to hold the switch in the tilt (up) position long enough.
   – If you still have issues, check the fuse for the sunroof (refer to owner’s manual or fuse box diagram under the hood or side of dashboard).
   – If you hear the motor running but the roof doesn’t move, or nothing happens at all, the issue may be mechanical (jammed track) or electrical (wiring, switch, or motor failure). A visit to a qualified technician will be needed.

Extra Tips and Troubleshooting

• If your sunroof is binding or stuck, don’t force it—check for debris or dirt in the rails.
• Regular cleaning and light lubrication of the sunroof tracks will help prevent future problems.
• If the reset doesn’t help, the fault may be with the control module, motor, or wiring, not just “memory.”
• If you hear unusual noises or grinding, stop and get professional help to avoid damaging the sunroof mechanism.

Summary

Resetting the sunroof on a Mercedes W204 (C-Class) is a quick DIY procedure that often solves most electronic glitches or loss-of-memory after a power interruption. Just bring the roof to fully closed, hold the switch in the tilt (up) position for 5–10 seconds, and test all functions. This procedure works for most 2008–2014 C-Class models, and is similar for many other Mercedes vehicles as well. If the sunroof still fails, further diagnosis or professional repair is needed.

If you need a step-by-step for a different Mercedes model, or have a specific problem with your sunroof (like noise, leaks, or sticking), just ask for a targeted guide!