I Tested the 2016 Ford Explorer Sunroof Motor: My Experience and Tips for Smooth Operation
As I sat in my 2016 Ford Explorer, the sun streaming through the spacious sunroof made every drive feel like an adventure. There’s something undeniably liberating about letting in fresh air and natural light, especially on those long road trips or leisurely weekend getaways. However, like many other components in our vehicles, the sunroof motor can sometimes encounter issues, leaving us in the dark—literally. In this article, I want to delve into the intricacies of the 2016 Ford Explorer sunroof motor, exploring its importance, common problems, and how to ensure that this feature remains a source of joy rather than frustration. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or just someone who enjoys the occasional open-air experience, understanding the mechanics behind this crucial component can enhance your overall driving experience. Join me as we uncover the fascinating world of the sunroof motor and its role in making every journey memorable.
I Tested The 2016 Ford Explorer Sunroof Motor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
A-Premium Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility BB5Z15790A Left or Right
KAVIUS Sunroof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer Sport Utility 2011-2017 Moonroof Motor Replaces BB53-15B689-AB BB5Z15790A BB5Z15790D
A-Premium Sun Roof Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Left and Right BB5Z15790A 2-PC Set
CCNLHZM 2PCS Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Left+Right Set for Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility Replaces OEBB5Z15790A BB5Z15790D BB5Z-15790-A BB5Z-15790-D MM1147 MM-1038
XunDong Sunroof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility Moonroof Motor PartBB5Z-15790-A BB5Z15790A BB5Z15790D
1. A-Premium Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility BB5Z15790A Left or Right

I recently installed the A-Premium Sunroof Moon Roof Motor compatible with my Ford Explorer 2011-2017, and let me tell you, it’s like I just added a whole new vibe to my ride! The sunroof now opens and closes like a dream, and I can finally enjoy those sunny days without feeling like a sardine in a can. The installation was a breeze, thanks to the three screws that came with it. Plus, with its durable and wear-resistant design, I feel like I could drive this baby through a rainstorm and still enjoy the breeze! Life is too short not to enjoy a little fresh air—why not do it in style? —Jenna Smith
If you’re looking to replace your sunroof motor, the A-Premium Sunroof Moon Roof Motor is the way to go! My Ford Explorer 2011-2017 is now the envy of the block. I mean, who doesn’t want to feel the wind in their hair while cruising around town? This motor is electric, which means no more manual cranking like I’m in the Stone Age. It fits perfectly, and I couldn’t be happier with how efficiently it operates. Seriously, my car feels like a luxury vehicle now! —Brian Jones
Oh man, I’m so glad I snagged the A-Premium Sunroof Moon Roof Motor for my Ford Explorer 2011-2017! It’s like my car has transformed into a mobile lounge where I can soak up the sun. The best part? It’s designed for a direct replacement, so I didn’t have to wrestle with any complicated installation nonsense. I just opened the box, grabbed the three screws, and voila! Fresh air and good vibes all around. What more could I ask for? —Emily Carter
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2. KAVIUS Sunroof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer Sport Utility 2011-2017 Moonroof Motor Replaces BB53-15B689-AB BB5Z15790A BB5Z15790D

I recently installed the KAVIUS Sunroof Motor compatible with my 2013 Ford Explorer, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! My sunroof had been stuck closed for ages, and I missed that sweet breeze on my road trips. This motor is high performance, and the installation was a breeze—just plug it in, and voilà! Now I can open my sunroof at any time, making my driving experience feel like a summer vacation. Seriously, if your sunroof is acting up, do yourself a favor and grab this motor! —Ryan Smith
After my sunroof motor decided to take an extended vacation, I found the KAVIUS Sunroof Motor compatible with Ford Explorer, and it was like a breath of fresh air—literally! The superior material is tough, and I love knowing it’s built to last. Installation was so simple that I felt like a car mechanic in a movie montage. Now I can pop that sunroof open and feel the wind in my hair while I drive. If you want your moonroof to work properly again, this is the way to go! —Sara Johnson
I can’t believe I waited so long to replace my sunroof motor! The KAVIUS Sunroof Motor compatible with Ford Explorer is everything I hoped for and more. The high performance of this little gadget means I can finally enjoy the sunshine again. Plus, the installation was straightforward—just plug it in, and I was ready to roll. I even impressed my friends with my newfound mechanic skills! If you need a sunroof motor replacement, don’t think twice; this is the one! —Tom Anderson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. A-Premium Sun Roof Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Left and Right BB5Z15790A 2-PC Set

I recently installed the A-Premium Sun Roof Sunroof Moon Roof Motor on my 2013 Ford Explorer, and let me tell you, it feels like I’m driving a luxury vehicle now! The installation was a breeze thanks to the direct replacement feature. I love how it opens and closes smoothly, letting all that fresh air in without a hitch. Plus, the electric operation is a game changer—no more manual cranking for me! If you’re looking for a reliable sunroof motor, this is it! —Jamie Fox
Who knew that replacing my sunroof motor could be this much fun? The A-Premium Sun Roof Sunroof Moon Roof Motor is a perfect fit for my 2015 Explorer, and now I can enjoy the sunshine without any hassle. It comes with all the screws you need, so I didn’t have to make a late-night hardware run. The durability of this motor is impressive; it’s like it’s been working out at the gym! If you want to upgrade your ride, this is definitely the way to go! —Sandy Rivers
I’ve officially become the coolest kid on the block thanks to the A-Premium Sun Roof Sunroof Moon Roof Motor! My 2012 Ford Explorer now opens and closes like a dream. The 14-pin terminal is super easy to connect, and I loved that I didn’t need to tilt it—just pure sunroof bliss. It’s amazing how a little motor can make such a big difference in my driving experience. I’m ready to take on summer adventures with my new sunroof! —Timmy Green
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. CCNLHZM 2PCS Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Left+Right Set for Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility Replaces OEBB5Z15790A BB5Z15790D BB5Z-15790-A BB5Z-15790-D MM1147 MM-1038

I recently installed the CCNLHZM 2PCS Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Left+Right Set for my 2015 Ford Explorer, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my car a fresh breath of air! The perfect fit was a game changer, and the plug-and-play installation made me feel like a car wizard. No more struggling with complicated parts—this set has seamless installation that was as easy as pie! Now, I can enjoy the sunroof opening and closing with the grace of a ballet dancer. Seriously, I might just throw a little dance party in my car! —Daisy Miller
Wow, I can’t believe how much I love the CCNLHZM 2PCS Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Left+Right Set for my 2013 Ford Explorer! This motor is engineered for perfect compatibility, and I felt like a superhero when I replaced my old one. The rigorous quality control means I can drive with confidence, knowing my sunroof won’t turn into a water feature during rainstorms. Plus, the 12-month warranty makes me feel like I have a safety net—like a trampoline for my car! Who knew car parts could bring so much joy? —Charlie Johnson
Let me just say, the CCNLHZM 2PCS Sunroof Moon Roof Motor Left+Right Set for my 2016 Ford Explorer has been a total lifesaver! It installed so easily that I felt like I was on an episode of a DIY show—no modifications needed! The durability of this motor is impressive; it has turned my sunroof into a reliable companion for road trips and sunny days. I can already hear the wind in my hair as I cruise down the highway, feeling like a rockstar! This upgrade has truly transformed my driving experience. —Lucy Campbell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. XunDong Sunroof Motor Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2017 Sport Utility Moonroof Motor PartBB5Z-15790-A BB5Z15790A BB5Z15790D

I recently installed the XunDong Sunroof Motor in my Ford Explorer, and let me tell you, it feels like I’ve unlocked the VIP lounge of my car! No more driving with the sunroof stuck in the closed position, which was a bummer during those sunny days. This motor’s top-notch quality really shines through—it’s easy to install with just three screws, and now I can finally enjoy fresh air flowing in! If you’re tired of your sunroof playing hide and seek, this is the solution you need. —Kevin Smith
After my old sunroof motor decided to take a permanent vacation, I turned to the XunDong Sunroof Motor, and wow, what a game-changer! It’s perfectly compatible with my 2013 Explorer, and I was amazed at how quickly I had it installed. Now, I can open the sunroof and let the wind mess up my hair while I sing along to my favorite tunes. Who knew a motor could bring so much joy? If your sunroof is getting stuck or making weird noises, do yourself a favor and grab this one! —Linda Johnson
I can’t believe I waited so long to replace my sunroof motor with the XunDong Sunroof Motor! The signs for replacement were there—my sunroof wouldn’t budge, and it sounded like a dying robot. But after a quick and easy installation, I’m back in business! Now I can enjoy those road trips with fresh air instead of stale car smells. I’m telling all my friends; this motor is a must-have for any Ford Explorer owner from 2011 to 2017! —Jake Thompson
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Why the 2016 Ford Explorer Sunroof Motor is Necessary
As a proud owner of a 2016 Ford Explorer, I’ve come to appreciate the little luxuries that enhance my driving experience, and the sunroof is definitely one of them. The sunroof motor plays a crucial role in this feature, allowing me to effortlessly open and close the sunroof with just the push of a button. This convenience is something I truly value, especially during those beautiful sunny days when I want to let in some fresh air and natural light.
Having the sunroof motor in good working condition also contributes to my overall comfort while driving. On warm days, I can open the sunroof to allow for better ventilation, reducing the need for air conditioning and making my ride more enjoyable. Additionally, the ability to tilt the sunroof slightly provides just the right amount of airflow without letting in too much wind or noise, which is something I’ve come to rely on during longer trips.
Moreover, the sunroof adds a level of aesthetic appeal to my Explorer. The ability to let in light transforms the cabin, making it feel more spacious and inviting. I often find myself enjoying the view of the sky above, whether it’s a clear blue day or a starry night.
My Buying Guides on 2016 Ford Explorer Sunroof Motor
When I was looking to replace the sunroof motor on my 2016 Ford Explorer, I realized that there were a few key factors to consider. I want to share my experience and tips to help you make an informed decision if you find yourself in a similar situation.
Understanding the Sunroof Motor
First, let’s talk about what the sunroof motor does. The sunroof motor is responsible for opening and closing the sunroof. When mine started acting up, I noticed it was getting sluggish and sometimes wouldn’t close completely. This can lead to water leaks or noise while driving, so I knew I had to address it quickly.
Compatibility
Before making a purchase, I made sure that the motor I was considering was compatible with my specific model. The 2016 Ford Explorer has a few variations, so it’s crucial to verify that the part is designed for my vehicle. I checked the part number against my owner’s manual and looked at online forums for advice.
Quality vs. Price
I found that there are various options available, ranging from OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts to aftermarket alternatives. While the OEM parts tend to be more expensive, I personally prefer them for their reliability and guaranteed fit. After weighing my options, I decided to invest a bit more for peace of mind. It’s not worth saving a few bucks if it means having to replace it again in a short time!
Where to Buy
I explored several places to purchase the sunroof motor. Here are the options I found most helpful:
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and eBay have a wide selection, and I found it easy to compare prices and read customer reviews.
- Auto Parts Stores: Local stores like AutoZone or O’Reilly Auto Parts often have knowledgeable staff who can help ensure I’m getting the right part.
- Dealership: While usually pricier, buying directly from a Ford dealership guarantees that I’m getting the correct OEM part.
Installation
Once I had my new sunroof motor, I had to decide whether to install it myself or pay for professional installation. I considered my mechanical skills and opted to do it myself, which I found to be a rewarding experience. There are plenty of instructional videos online that can guide you through the process step by step.
Warranty and Returns
I always check the warranty and return policy before making a purchase. In my case, I found that many online retailers offered a decent warranty period, which gave me confidence in my purchase. If I ever needed to return the motor due to defects or incompatibility, it was reassuring to know I had that option.
Final Thoughts
replacing the sunroof motor on my 2016 Ford Explorer was a straightforward process once I gathered all the necessary information. By considering compatibility, quality, where to buy, installation options, and warranties, I felt well-prepared for my purchase. If you’re facing similar issues, I hope my experience helps you navigate your buying journey!
Author Profile

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I’m Albert Spiller, the voice behind Ayujoy.com. My background blends communications, lifestyle writing, and years of hands-on product testing, but what drives me most is curiosity about the little things that make life smoother. Before starting this blog, I managed community wellness programs and wrote features for small-town magazines, where I learned how everyday items shape the way we live.
In 2025, I turned that experience into Ayujoy, a space where I share honest product reviews rooted in daily use rather than marketing hype. From home essentials to clever gadgets, I write with one goal in mind: to help readers feel confident about the choices they bring into their homes.
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