Moonroof problem
 

I just bought a 2004 4Runner SR5.

I love the truck, but a few days after purchasing it I noticed that the moonroof makes a grinding or scraping sound when it slides closed. It only does this when closing, never when opening, and it doesn't always make this noise, but more often than not.

The noise appears to come from the moonroof rail on the driver's side. I figured that something was stuck in the rail, but I took a look in there and found nothing.

Has anyone experienced a problem like this? And if so what was the resolution?

Thanks!

Mine makes a soft noise when closing, but I wouldn't describe it as a grinding noise.

Sounds like it may need some grease. To be safe, I'd take it in, demonstrate the noise to the service manager, and let them figure it out. Yes, it costs a little time, but that's what the warranty is for.

took it to the dealer
 

I took my 4Runner to the dealer for the sunroof. They told me that the grinding sound I was hearing is actually the plastic "garnish panel" on the driver's side of the sunroof vibrating. To correct the problem they installed some thicker insulation between the plastic panel and the metal component it attaches to.

A day after I picked up the truck from the dealer service department I noticed that their "fix" was not effective. The plastic panel is still vibrating, but maybe not quite as loud as before.

Besides the incredibly annoying noise this makes I'm concerned as to what is causing this vibration. And why is this only occuring on the driver's side of the sunroof. I found a complaint posted on NHTSA's website describing the same exact problem I'm having, although on a 2003 4Runner.

I'm heading back to dealer service to see if they can get this corrected on the second shot.