
The Tesla Model S offers a panoramic sunroof option, which is distinct from the standard fixed glass roof. The panoramic sunroof, sometimes referred to as the pano roof, can be opened and closed through the touchscreen menu, steering wheel controls, or the Tesla mobile app. While the glass roof does not open, the panoramic sunroof option offers the benefit of fresh air and an enhanced sense of spaciousness in the cabin. However, the panoramic sunroof has been associated with reliability issues and higher temperatures in hotter climates. As of 2018, Tesla stopped offering the panoramic sunroof as an option for the Model S, but it is still available in pre-owned vehicles.
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What You'll Learn

The Tesla Model S Panoramic Sunroof option
The Panoramic Sunroof option was well-received by many consumers, as it provided a feeling of spaciousness and openness in the cabin. It also allowed for fresh air to enter the car more quietly than if the side windows were open, especially at high speeds.
However, the Panoramic Sunroof option faced some reliability issues common to sunroofs and moonroofs in general. One specific issue was with the motor mechanism, which tended to break down over time, resulting in a sunroof that wouldn't fully open or close.
In 2016, Tesla introduced a Glass Roof option, which caused some confusion due to its similar name. The main distinction between the two is that the Panoramic Sunroof opens, while the Glass Roof does not. Additionally, the Panoramic Sunroof required more space for its motor housing and railings, resulting in wider sides of the ceiling next to the driver and passenger doors.
In 2018, Tesla stopped offering the Panoramic Sunroof as an option on the Model S, favouring the fixed Glass Roof instead. However, it is still possible to find used Model S vehicles with the Panoramic Sunroof option.
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Opening the sunroof
It's worth noting that the panoramic sunroof is different from the Glass Roof option introduced by Tesla in 2016. While both provide a panoramic view and let in sunlight, the key distinction is that the panoramic sunroof can be opened, while the Glass Roof remains fixed. The panoramic sunroof operates similarly to a spoiler roof or a tilt-and-slide mechanism, rising up and sliding back along tracks on the roof. This design includes a small windscreen at the front to reduce drag.
In 2018, Tesla discontinued offering the panoramic sunroof as an option on the Model S, favouring the fixed Glass Roof. However, if you're interested in a used Model S, you may still be able to find one equipped with the panoramic sunroof. It's important to note that the panoramic sunroof has had some reliability issues, and the motor mechanism may require adjustments or tightening over time.
The panoramic sunroof adds an extra dimension to the driving experience, providing a sense of openness and extra headroom. It also allows for fresh air circulation while driving, enhancing cabin spaciousness and reducing any feelings of claustrophobia on long road trips. Additionally, the sunroof provides a brighter and more natural lighting experience compared to tinted windows or the Body-Colored Roof option.
Overall, the panoramic sunroof in the Tesla Model S offers a unique feature that combines functionality and aesthetics. While it may have some minor drawbacks, such as potential reliability issues, it remains a desirable option for many drivers seeking a more enjoyable and customisable driving experience.
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Controlling the sunroof
The Tesla Model S offers a panoramic sunroof option, which was introduced in 2012. The panoramic sunroof can be controlled through the touchscreen menu or the steering wheel. The touchscreen menu allows you to adjust the sunroof to any point, from a slight vent to fully open.
To control the sunroof using the touchscreen, simply drag your finger on the roof in the picture, or slide the blue control to the desired setting. As you do this, the picture on the screen will move along with the sunroof, showing its progress.
Using the steering wheel, you can control the sunroof by selecting the sunroof setting and scrolling in the direction you want the roof to slide. With a second press on the scroll wheel, you can open or close the sunroof without needing to scroll. This is useful for quick venting or closing operations.
In addition to the above methods, the Tesla mobile app allows owners to control the sunroof remotely, although it can only be vented or closed, not opened. For more comprehensive remote control, the Visible Tesla app enables owners to open and close the sunroof to any setting directly from their computer.
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Pros and cons of the sunroof
The Tesla Panoramic Sunroof, introduced in 2012, is a popular feature that has since been discontinued. The sunroof is a mechanical porthole in the ceiling that can be adjusted to any position from a small vent to fully open. While it offers a range of benefits, there are also some drawbacks.
Pros
The Panoramic Sunroof offers a unique experience, allowing fresh air and sunlight into the car while giving passengers a celebrity-like wave effect. It increases cabin spaciousness, making long road trips feel less claustrophobic. The sunroof also adds a sci-fi cool factor, as it can be opened with the push of a button or even remotely through the Tesla mobile app. Additionally, the sunroof provides a full view of the sun, as opposed to tinted light through the heavy glass of the fixed Glass Roof.
Cons
One of the main drawbacks of the Panoramic Sunroof is the reliability issue common to sunroofs and moonroofs in general. The motor mechanism tends to break down over time, resulting in a sunroof that may not fully open or close. This can cause concerns about leaking during rain. There are also safety concerns, as occupants must be careful not to extend any body parts or objects through the sunroof opening to avoid serious injury from flying debris or tree branches. Furthermore, the lack of a built-in sunshade can lead to temperature issues in hotter climates, requiring aftermarket tinting.
The Tesla Panoramic Sunroof offers a unique and enjoyable experience for drivers and passengers, enhancing the sense of spaciousness and providing a cool factor. However, it also comes with reliability and safety concerns, as well as potential temperature issues in certain climates. While it is no longer offered as a new feature, it remains a sought-after option in the pre-owned Tesla market.
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Finding a used Model S with a Panoramic Sunroof
In 2018, Tesla stopped offering the Panoramic Sunroof as an option on the Model S, so you will have to look for a used Model S if you want one with a Panoramic Sunroof.
The Panoramic Sunroof made its debut on the Model S in 2012, so you can look for a used Model S from 2012 to 2018. The Panoramic Sunroof was offered alongside a traditional aluminum Body-Coloured Roof. The sunroof was fully adjustable from the touchscreen menu or the steering wheel, allowing it to open to any point from a small vent to fully open.
You can look for a used Model S with a Panoramic Sunroof through private sellers, which may offer better deals. However, there is a consistent problem with the confusion between the Panoramic Sunroof and the Glass Roof. Many people use the term "sunroof" to refer to both, so be sure to clarify which roof the car has before purchasing.
You can also check Tesla's Used Inventory, which is the most expensive option but provides a 145-point inspection and a Used Vehicle Limited Warranty.
The Panoramic Sunroof offers benefits such as bringing fresh outdoor air into the car, making long road trips feel less claustrophobic, and increasing the spaciousness of the cabin. However, it is important to note that the Panoramic Sunroof has had some dependability concerns, and the motor mechanism can break down over time.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the pano Tesla roof, also known as the Panoramic Sunroof, opens. It made its debut in 2012 with the Tesla Model S. It can be opened using the touchscreen menu or the steering wheel.
The main distinction between the two is that the pano roof opens, while the Glass Roof does not. The pano roof is also referred to as a moonroof, which is a sliding glass pane that always lets in light.
No, the pano roof was only offered on the Model S until 2018, when Tesla stopped offering it and favoured the fixed Glass Roof instead. The Model 3, Model Y, and Model X have never had a sunroof offered by Tesla.
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