Installing a sunroof in a Nissan Altima provides better ventilation and a more open feeling in the cockpit. Putting a sunroof in a Nissan Altima requires special tools, precision cutting skills and the removal of the dome light in some models. The maximum size sunroof for a Nissan Altima is 22 inches wide and 38 inches long.
Prepare the work area by laying out all of the tools and sunroof parts, ensure all of the required parts came in the kit. Push the seats all of the way back and cover the interior with a sheet or tarp.
Hold the shade tray on the roof interior and verify there is at least four inches of clearance on each side. Remove the dome light if necessary and pull the headliner out carefully. Make sure the dome light wires are out of the way.
Put the shade tray back on the roof and use a screwdriver to make a small dimple in the roof at each corner. Tape the template onto the rooftop using the dimples as a guide. Drill a starter hole through one of the dimples and cut out the roof with metal shears.
Smooth the edges with a file and test fit the sunroof frame. Make adjustments if needed and coat the bare edges with primer to inhibit rust.
Wipe off the bottom of the sunroof and run a bead of sealant around the lip. Set the sunroof frame in place and connect the clamping ring and screws taking care not to strip or over tighten them.
Clean up any excess sealant with a rag and assemble the rest of the sunroof by following the instruction in the manual. Relocate the dome light or terminate the wires with wire nuts. Replace the headliner, using a razor knife to make any alterations.
