GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

    Important: 

       • The sunroof positioning encoding (SPE) switch (3) is aligned to the drive cables. The SPE switch comes from the factory set to the window CLOSED position. A position lock pin (1) has been installed by the factory on the top of the switch. This pin must remain until after the installation of the actuator and of the SPE switch. This lock pin locks the drive gears in place and must be removed before the complete sun roof module is installed in the vehicle.
       • If you remove the SPE switch for inspection, place the sunroof in the CLOSED position by inserting a position lock pin. If a position lock pin is not available, place 2 wires, such as the ends of a paper clip, in the holes .

  1. Move the sunroof to the closed position.
  2. Remove the sunroof glass panel. Refer to Sunroof Glass Panel Replacement .
  3. Remove the sunroof module. Refer to Power Sunroof Module Replacement .
  4. If the SPE switch will be reused, insert the position lock pin in order to lock the SPE switch in the window closed position.
  5. Remove the sunroof actuator. Refer to Sunroof Actuator Replacement .

  6. Object Number: 594490  Size: SH
  7. Disconnect the electrical connector from the SPE switch (3).
  8. Remove the SPE switch retaining screw (2).
  9. Hold down both drive cables, and lift up in order to remove the SPE switch.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 594499  Size: SH

    Important: When installing a new SPE switch, the window must first be set to the CLOSED position. The cable mechanisms and/or the cam mechanisms, on both sides of the glass, contain a set of timing holes. These holes are aligned in the window CLOSED position. These holes are located on the side opposite the rear screw hole that is used in order to mount the sunroof glass panel.

  1. Align the timing holes. Use a flat-bladed tool in order to push the cable mechanism and/or cam mechanism forward or rearward.
  2. Insert a pin (1) 3.17 mm (0.125 in) in diameter, or insert a drill bit into each set of holes. Apply tape in order to hold each pin in place.


    Object Number: 594501  Size: SH

    Important: The SPE comes from the factory with a position lock pin that is installed on top of the switch. This locks the timing gears in place. Do not remove this pin until after you install the SPE and the actuator.

  3. Keeping the position lock pin on the new SPE switch, position the switch over the drive cables, and press down.
  4. If the switch does not slide into position, the ridges on the drive cable housings will not slide into the grooves on the back of the SPE switch. Lift each cable up into the switch and then press down on the assembly.


    Object Number: 594490  Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  5. Install the SPE switch retaining screw.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the screw to 3 N·m (27 lb in).

  7. Connect the electrical connector to the SPE switch.
  8. Install the sunroof actuator. Refer to Sunroof Actuator Replacement .
  9. Remove the position lock pin (1).
  10. Remove the 2 alignment pins from the cable mechanisms and/or from the cam mechanisms.
  11. Install the sunroof module, but do not install the headliner until after the sunroof operation has been checked. Refer to Power Sunroof Module Replacement .
  12. Verify the operation of the sunroof.
  13. Install the sunroof glass panel. Refer to Sunroof Glass Panel Replacement .
  14. Inspect the sunroof for proper adjustment of the sunroof glass panel. Refer to Sunroof Window Height and Opening Fit Adjustment .
  15. Install the headliner. Refer to Headlining Trim Panel Replacement in Interior Trim.