Convertible top not closing all of the way

ANSWER : There are several things that may be causing this problem. Firstly, dirt stuck in the rails of the sun roof can jam or impede the full range of the motion of the automated top. Also, if any of the components are bent or damaged, the sun roof could be getting blocked. Another possibility is that a failing motor could be keeping the full range of motion from being completed as well. An inspection of your electrical components should be carried out by a qualified technician in order to find the cause of your concern.

ANSWER : Hello there. When checking the fluid, the top must be in the service position for an accurate reading. This should show the fluid level at the proper level once the top is in the service position.

The bolt and washer are removed carefully and the Mercedes special tool is used to add or remove fluid. The only approved convertible top fluid is the fluid supplied by Mercedes under their own brand.

WD40 is not a lubricate that is used to remove water and rust, but it is not sufficient for lubrication purposes long term. If the top is continuing to not work, then there is likely another fault other than the fluid level. The most common would be one of the top motors being faulty, a bad top position sensor, or a broken top switch. If you need help having these checked, a certified technician from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to diagnose and repair your convertible top.

ANSWER : Hello. Most of the time this is caused by the lift motor failing. The motor will lose its ability to lift the top, which will cause all of these symptoms. It can also be an electrical issue, but this is not as common. For a problem with the convertible top, your best bet may be to bring the car into the dealer to see if they can pinpoint and repair the problem.

ANSWER : Hi there. You are correct to be worried about the cost of repairing a convertible soft-top; especially an Audi or BMW. When a convertible top begins to have difficulty closing all the way, it’s typically caused by the primary support brackets beginning to wear out; and in some cases, bend. This creates additional drain on the motor and can cause the top to not open or close without full replacement. I’d consider purchasing a different vehicle; as the cost to repair a convertible top down the road can exceed $1,000.00.

ANSWER : The sun roof mechanism is most likely getting, or has gotten, corroded or rusted. In this case, it would need to be replaced. The switch contacts are loosing contact and the switch should be replaced as well.

The recommended thing to do is have the entire sun roof assembly replaced. However, you can try lubricating the unit and cleaning out the tracks. If doesn’t fix it, replacing the motor may be needed along with the switch. A certified mechanic can help you by diagnosing the state of your sunroof and fixing it accordingly.

ANSWER : Hello. It sounds like the motor that moves the top is failing. When the electric motor fails, this will occur. I usually start by scanning the computer for codes to see if anything comes up. If not, then I apply power directly to the motor to see if it works. If not, then it will need to be replaced. If the motor is fine, then it may have a linkage issue, but that is not very common. If you are going to have this repaired, consider YourMechanic, as a certified mechanic can come to your home or office to diagnose the electrical components involved and recommend an appropriate repair.

ANSWER : The hydraulic system that moves the top may have a leak or has taken in air and needs to be bled. When this happens, the pump continues to make noise, but the top stops moving. Have an automotive technician inspect the vehicle and verify the concern.

ANSWER : As vehicles age, it is not uncommon to have convertible top issues. Convertible tops rely on many sensors and motors to work properly. When one or more of these items start to have issues, it can be difficult to detect which is the cause. The most common causes are one of the top motors, or a latch assembly. A qualified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, will be able to diagnose any problems with the convertible top and perform any repairs required.