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The Best Automotive Replacement Sun Roof Motors

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Our picks are based on Amazon bestseller rankings, verified customer ratings, and product availability. We update our recommendations regularly to ensure accuracy.

Automotive Replacement Sun Roof Motors are essential components responsible for the smooth operation of your vehicle's sunroof or moonroof system. These motors facilitate the opening, closing, and tilting functions, ensuring comfort and convenience for drivers and passengers. They are typically replaced when a sunroof becomes unresponsive, stuck, or produces unusual noises. Products were evaluated based on vehicle fitment accuracy, technical specifications like terminal quantity, manufacturer reputation, user reviews, and feature analysis.

Best Overall

A-Premium Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility BB5Z15790A Left or Right

A-Premium offers precise fitment details and common reference numbers, making it a reliable choice for a single replacement motor.

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Best Budget

GEARLAST Sunroof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Left and Right, 2-PCS Set Replaces# BB53-15B689-AB BB5Z15790A

$99.99

GEARLAST provides a cost-effective 2-PCS set, ideal for users who may need to replace both left and right motors simultaneously or keep a spare.

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Best Premium

Motorcraft Motor

The Motorcraft Motor, being an OEM brand, typically signifies higher quality and direct compatibility, offering peace of mind for long-term reliability.

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No. 1
A-Premium Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility BB5Z15790A Left or...
  • [Vehicle Fitment]: Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility (Before 2/11/2017) --- The sunroof is designed for opening and closing only and does not include a tilt feature.
  • [Specifications]: ① Position: (Sunroof) Left or Right; ② Terminal Quantity: 14 Pins; ③ Attachment Type: Screw-in; ④ Electric/Manual: Electric; ⑤ Material: Metal and Plastic; ⑥ Installation Hardware: with 3 Screws; ⑦ Fitment: Direct...
  • [Reference Number]: BB5Z15790A, BB5Z15790D, BB5Z-15790-A, BB5Z-15790-D, MM-1147, MM-1038
  • [Features]: A-Premium Sunroof Motor is engineered to provide OE fit, form, and function. Being durable and wear-resistant, it ensures strong reliability, coupled with high technology to improve operating efficiency and response speed, and make the air...
  • [Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium offers a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on our meticulously crafted sunroof motors. We offer a wide variety of automotive accessory categories, ensuring that you can hit the road with peace of mind.
No. 2
Dorman 747-991 Sunroof Motor Compatible with Select Ford Models
  • Direct replacement - this sunroof motor is designed to seamlessly replace a failed or malfunctioning original equipment motor, and to restore the functions of the original motor
  • Application-specific - check the product and fitment details to ensure you select the right motor for your vehicle make, model, and year
  • Durable construction - this motor is made from quality components and materials for reliable performance and long service life
  • Trustworthy quality - backed by a team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
  • Ensure fit - to make sure this part fits your exact vehicle, input your make, model and trim level into the garage tool
No. 3
GEARLAST Sunroof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Left and Right, 2-PCS Set Replaces...
  • Vehicle Fitment: Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017. Kindly note, please carefully compare the applicability of this explorer sunroof motor with your vehicle model. Also, please note that the sunroof is only designed for...
  • Replacement Number#: BB5Z-15790-A, BB5Z15790A, BB5Z15790D, BB5Z-15790-A, BB5Z-15790-D, MM-1147, MM-1038
  • Detailed Specifications: ① Position: Left and right; ② Number of terminals: 14 pins; ③ Connection type: allows screw-in connection; ④ Electric/Manual: Electric; ⑤ Material: Metal and plastic; ⑥ Mounting hardware: 6 screws included. After the...
  • Function: The Sunroof Motor is meticulously designed to enhance your driving safety. During extended driving, oxygen levels decrease and carbon dioxide levels increase in a closed vehicle cabin, potentially causing drowsiness. Opening the sunroof for...
  • Choose with Confidence: We provide a one-year unlimited mileage warranty for our carefully crafted sunroof motors. If you have any concerns during the 12-month use process, please feel free to let us know and let us escort you every time you travel
No. 4
GlobalPrince Sunroof Moon Roof Motor 2-PCS Set Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility, Left and...
  • Vehicle Fitment: Compatible with Ford Explorer Sport Utility 2011-2017 (before Feb 11, 2017). Please verify the compatibility of this sunroof motor with your vehicle, and note that the sunroof is designed for opening and closing only and does not have a...
  • Replace Part Number: BB5Z-15790-A, BB5Z15790A, BB5Z15790D, BB5Z-15790-A, BB5Z-15790-D, MM-1147, MM-1038
  • Product Specifications: This electric sunroof motor is designed for precise sunroof operation control and can be installed on either side. It features a precise 14-pin terminal connector for reliable connection. The motor has a robust and durable metal...
  • Function: The sunroof motor is the core power component of a car's sunroof system. It provides reliable torque, precisely driving the sunroof panel to achieve smooth opening and closing, resolving issues such as unstable operation or jamming. Opening the...
  • Excellent Customer Support: GlobalPrince is committed to producing high-quality products and providing the best assistance. We provide a 1-year worry-free warranty, if you have any questions or problems during use, please email us and we will do our best...
No. 5
Motorcraft MM-992 Sun Roof Motor
  • Package Dimensions: 19.8 H x 8.9 L x 11.1 W (centimeters)
  • Fits multiple makes and models (contact seller with your vehicle for fitment compatibility information)
  • Part number: MM-992
  • Package Weight: 0.732 kilograms
SaleNo. 6
KAVIUS Sunroof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer Sport Utility 2011-2017 Moonroof Motor Replaces...
  • Vehicle Fitment:The BB5Z15790A sunroof motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017.Please carefully compare the suitability of this explorer sunroof motor and your car model before purchasing
  • Replace Part #:Sun roof moon motor for explorer replaces for BB53-15B689-AB, BB5Z15790D, BB5Z15790A, BB5Z-15790-A, BB5Z-15790-D, MM1147, MM-1038, 747-991. Please check the part number before placing an order
  • High Performance:Automotive sunroof motor is a metal motor that can be moved, replacing it with a new sunroof moon roof motor will make your sunroof work properly and you can open the sunroof at any time to improve the driving experience
  • Superior Material:The explorer moonroof motor is made of upgraded material, which is strong and long-lasting
  • Simple Installation:Sunroof motor is suitable for both left and right, easy to install, just need to plug in the exact position and installation is completed, we suggest to let professional personnel help to install
No. 7
Aspaton 2 PCS Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible with Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility Left and Right...
  • Applicable Models - This car sunroof motor compatible with Explorer 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Sport Utility, this window regulator can better raise and lower your car windows, meeting your needs
  • Substitute Part Number - BB5Z15790A, BB5Z15790D, BB5Z-15790-A, BB5Z-15790-D, MM-1147, MM-1038, please be sure to check the model number of your car before purchasing to avoid any problems with incompatibility with the product
  • Superior Quality - The outer shell of this sunroof motor is made of upgraded engineering plastic, which has stable performance and is not easily affected by bumps. It allows the precision components inside to work normally and maintain stable performance...
  • Stable Performance - This motor has excellent performance and runs smoothly. During the process of driving the sunroof, the speed is uniform and there is no jamming, making the sunroof opening and closing process smooth. The motor has a certain...
  • Easy Installation - This car's motor installation is simple, without the need for complex tools and steps. Simply remove the top interior panel of the vehicle to expose the installation position of the sunroof motor and replace the old one with just one...
SaleNo. 8
GM Genuine Parts 15934722 Sunroof Motor
  • GM-recommended replacement part for your GM vehicle’s original factory component
  • Offering the quality, reliability, and durability of GM OE
  • Manufactured to GM OE specification for fit, form, and function
  • Country of Origin: United States
No. 9
Dorman 747-992 Sunroof Motor Compatible with Select Lincoln Models
  • Direct replacement - this sunroof motor is designed to seamlessly replace a failed or malfunctioning original equipment motor, and to restore the functions of the original motor
  • Application-specific - check the product and fitment details to ensure you select the right motor for your vehicle make, model, and year
  • Durable construction - this motor is made from quality components and materials for reliable performance and long service life
  • Trustworthy quality - backed by a team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
  • Ensure fit - Input your vehicle into the garage tool and check Confirmed Fit bar at the top of the page. If there is an “i” in a blue circle, additional verification is needed. Please hover over the "i" to verify fitment notes match your vehicle.
No. 10
Anlseiod 2PCS Sun Roof Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible for Explorer Sport Utility...
  • Fitment:The 2PCS Sun Roof Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible for Explorer 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Please note: Carefully compare this Explorer sunroof motor with the one in your vehicle to ensure compatibility. The sunroof is designed for...
  • Reference OE Part Number: Sun Roof Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Replacement for BB53-15B689-AB, BB5Z15790D, BB5Z15790A, BB5Z-15790-A, BB5Z-15790-D, MM1147, MM-1038, 747-991
  • A pair of sunroof drive motors provides smooth and sufficient torque output. When your sunroof experiences problems such as uneven opening and closing, one-sided movement, or complete jamming, replacing these motors can usually directly solve the problem...
  • Sunroof motors are precise but delicate components. This replacement motor set is highly compatible and, once installed, accurately drives the track, resolving various abnormal sunroof movements caused by aging and weakened motors. This allows you to...
  • Note:If the products you receive do not meet your expectations, please inform us at any time, and we will give you the most satisfactory treatment

Last update on 2026-07-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Automotive Replacement Sun Roof Motors

Vehicle Compatibility and Fitment Dates

Ensuring the replacement sunroof motor precisely matches your vehicle's make, model, and year is paramount. Manufacturers like A-Premium and XunDong specifically detail compatibility with Ford Explorer models from 2011-2017. A crucial detail to observe, as highlighted by A-Premium, is the 'Before 2/11/2017' production date, which can influence the exact part needed. Anlseiod also emphasizes verifying fitment for Explorer Sport Utility models within this range. Incorrect fitment can lead to installation issues or improper sunroof function.

Terminal Quantity and Connection Type

The electrical connection of a sunroof motor is critical for its operation. The number of terminals, typically 14 pins for many Ford Explorer models as noted by A-Premium and GEARLAST, must match the original component. The attachment type, often described as 'screw-in,' also needs to align with your vehicle's existing mechanism. While most aftermarket options adhere to these standards, a mismatch in pin count or connection style can prevent the motor from communicating correctly with the vehicle's electrical system, rendering it inoperable.

Single Unit vs. 2-Piece Sets

When replacing a sunroof motor, consider whether you need a single unit or a set. Brands like GEARLAST and Anlseiod offer convenient 2-PCS sets, providing both left and right motors. This can be advantageous if both motors are failing or if you prefer to replace them simultaneously for consistent performance. In contrast, products like the A-Premium motor are specified as 'Left or Right,' indicating they are sold individually. Evaluating the condition of both existing motors and the potential for future failure can help determine if a set offers better value in the long run.

Brand Reputation and Quality Assurance

The longevity and reliability of a replacement part often correlate with the manufacturer's reputation and quality control. Motorcraft, as an OEM brand, is generally known for meeting rigorous factory specifications. Aftermarket brands like XunDong, while potentially more budget-friendly, emphasize 'Top-notch Quality' and adherence to 'strict standards.' In practice, while Motorcraft might offer a more direct replacement experience, reputable aftermarket brands often provide comparable performance. Investigating the manufacturer's warranty and any available certifications can provide additional assurance regarding product durability.

Pros & Cons

A-Premium Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility BB5Z15790A Left or Right

Pros

  • Offers precise vehicle fitment details, including a specific production date cutoff.
  • References multiple OEM part numbers for broad compatibility verification.
  • Clearly states terminal quantity (14 pins) and attachment type (screw-in).

Cons

  • Sold as a single unit ('Left or Right'), not a 2-piece set.
  • No specific information on torque output or operational noise levels.

GEARLAST Sunroof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Left and Right, 2-PCS Set Replaces# BB53-15B689-AB BB5Z15790A

Pros

  • Includes a convenient 2-PCS set, providing both left and right motors.
  • Extensive list of replacement numbers for cross-referencing.
  • Clear specifications for terminal quantity and connection type.

Cons

  • Brand is less established compared to OEM or larger aftermarket competitors.
  • No explicit mention of material quality or specific durability testing.

Motorcraft Motor

Pros

  • Motorcraft is an OEM brand, suggesting direct fit and high-quality standards.
  • Manufactured in the United States, which may imply certain quality control expectations.
  • Likely to integrate seamlessly with the vehicle's existing electrical system.

Cons

  • Limited product details provided, making feature comparison difficult.
  • No explicit mention of specific vehicle fitment or terminal quantity in the description.
  • Typically sold as a single unit, not a set.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overlooking Specific Vehicle Production Dates

A common pitfall involves not checking the precise production date of your Ford Explorer. The A-Premium motor, for instance, specifies compatibility for models 'Before 2/11/2017'. Ignoring such details can lead to purchasing a motor that physically fits but is incompatible with the vehicle's specific wiring or control module, resulting in non-functional operation.

Ignoring Terminal Quantity and Electrical Connector Type

Many aftermarket motors, including those from A-Premium and GEARLAST, explicitly state a '14 Pins' terminal quantity and a 'Screw-in' attachment type. A mistake often made is assuming all motors for a given vehicle are identical. Mismatched pin counts will prevent the motor from connecting correctly to the wiring harness, leading to frustrating installation failures.

Assuming Universal 'Left or Right' Compatibility for Single Units

While some motors, like the A-Premium unit, are designed to work for either the left or right side, not all single motors offer this flexibility. Similarly, not every vehicle uses identical motors for both sides. Failing to confirm if the motor is truly interchangeable or if a specific orientation is required can result in needing to purchase an additional, correctly oriented motor.

Neglecting the Benefits of a 2-Piece Set

When one sunroof motor fails, the other is often not far behind due to similar wear and tear. A mistake is to only replace the failing unit without considering a 2-PCS set offered by brands like GEARLAST or Anlseiod. Replacing both simultaneously can save time and labor costs in the long run, preventing a return trip to address the second motor's inevitable failure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common signs that an automotive sunroof motor needs replacement?
Users typically report that a sunroof motor needs replacement when the sunroof fails to open or close, gets stuck midway, or the motor produces a distinct clicking or grinding sound without movement. These symptoms, as highlighted by XunDong, indicate mechanical or electrical failure within the motor assembly.
Is it necessary to replace both left and right sunroof motors if only one fails?
While not strictly necessary, it is often recommended, especially given that some products like GEARLAST and Anlseiod offer 2-PCS sets. If one motor has failed due to wear, the other motor, having experienced similar operational cycles, may be prone to failure soon after. Replacing both can ensure consistent performance and prevent future issues.
What does '14 Pins' mean for a sunroof motor, and why is it important?
The '14 Pins' specification, noted for motors from A-Premium and GEARLAST, refers to the number of electrical terminals on the motor's connector. This is crucial because it dictates compatibility with your vehicle's wiring harness. An incorrect pin count will prevent the motor from receiving proper electrical signals, rendering it inoperable.
How crucial is the 'Before 2/11/2017' detail for Ford Explorer models?
This specific date, mentioned by A-Premium, is highly crucial as it indicates a potential design or component change in the Ford Explorer's sunroof system around that time. Failing to adhere to this cutoff date for your vehicle's production can result in purchasing a motor that is physically incompatible or has different electrical requirements, leading to installation problems.
What is the main difference between an OEM and an aftermarket sunroof motor?
The primary distinction lies in the manufacturer and adherence to original factory specifications. An OEM motor, like the Motorcraft option, is produced by the original equipment manufacturer or a direct supplier, guaranteeing an exact fit and performance identical to the factory-installed part. Aftermarket motors, such as those from XunDong or A-Premium, are produced by third-party companies, often aiming to provide a cost-effective alternative while meeting or exceeding performance standards.