Leaking sunroof 2000 4Runner

Hi! New here-
I have a 2000 4Runner. Had it about a year and love it!
The sunroof doesn’t work, no clue how long it’s been out & no idea what the issue is. Motor makes noise but nothing engages- not too worried about repairing it since it could be multiple things & im not trying to chase that rabbit. (Unless someone knows exactly what’s wrong by hearing that explanation and can lead me where I need to go) We’ve had two hard rains here lately and I have a leak. I’m assuming it’s the sunroof (sunroofs typically leak) and since I’m not wanting to buy a million parts and hope that fixes it, I’m considering going super redneck with it and silicone around the sunroof, basically clear siliconing it to the vehicle. My question is, is this an absolutely terrible idea? Can someone lead me in a more affective direction? Or should I just full send and silicone it?
Thanks in advance!

 

I had to deal with a leak in a non-sunroof car and tore my hair out chasing after it, Flex Sealing the roof rails thinking there might be a pinhole but nope, the windshield install was crap and when the installer looked at it, they blamed the roof rail but when it was pulled out the next installer saw the lack of sealant in a spot. Trying to clean up my messy RTV and Flex Seal was hell and I gave up on that eyesore.

Anyways, did you try gaining access and cleaning out the drains? Not sure if it’ll move manually though or if they’re accessible from below. Typically the internet says clogged drains and water pooling around the technically not watertight sunroof are to blame.

I’d also want to test the sunroof, maybe cover it with some plastic sheet and tape before a storm and see if the leak is still there or not?

Just in case it’s something else leaking. My old Sienna (not the windshield leak car) had aging weather stripping that let water occasionally drip in along the driver’s side A pillar, I wouldn’t say that’s expected but definitely diagnose before going ham even though i do think your idea will probably work.

 

Thank you for your response! I removed the headliner and cleaned all 4 drains out. The one near where I was noticing the leak was clogged. I’m hoping that fixed my issue. If not, I’ll be heading to Lowes for some silicone