It is possible! Nickel sulfide crystallizes and is a contaminant that can cause spontaneous shattering with tempered glass, it is very hard to make sure it doesn’t get into the glass manufacturing process and there is no way that I’m aware of to insure that it’s completely nickel free as of now so there is chance of defective tempered glass regardless. I know some automakers have moved towards laminated glass as an alternative.

 

Maybe a dumb question but if you get your sunroof tinted does that help prevent an explosion?

 

No but it may help containing the glass shards from raining on you.

 

This happened last year to my wife while driving our 2013 gs350. Seems yours was about the same age when it happened. Hrm....

 

New cars also have the same issue. RX350 moonroof exploded on me. People should stop buying Lexus

 

no they shouldn't

 

I'm so scared that's going to happen to me when I'm driving on the highway!

 

I've owned three ISes and none of them have had any issues with the sunroof, from squeaks to explosions. I know I am just one guy, but also think of the tens of thousands of these cars that are sold every year. I think the odds of this happening are quite small. If you want this car, I wouldn't worry about the sunroof. If it happens, it happens. But, I would point out that this happens across other makes and models as well, so the only way to really avoid the issue altogether is to NOT get a sunroof at all.