KyleKaiser

2001 CLK430. Top doesn't retract. I'm trying to figure out whether to replace everything that could be an issue (1000s of dollars) or try it piece by piece. I don't want to replace everything if it's just a part or two. Is there a list of things to check, in order, to see what needs fixing?

What I mean in practice: when I twist the handle and pop the top manually, then pull up on the retract/reclose button, the windows lower but nothing else happens. I hear nothing attempting to work to open the top. Is this an immediate sign that the computer module is failing, or would I get the same result if the master hydraulic unit were failing? Should I just replace both and see what happens? If I replace just the computer when other parts need replacing, will it damage the computer when I try to operate the top?

steveoelliott

Based on my previous experience with soft top issues on this model, I would highly recommend going to a trusted specialist to diagnose and resolve. Be prepared that they may not fix it first time and it may take a bit of playing around but at least it won’t be complete hit and miss.

Mercnotworking

Hi,

Welcome to the forum.

The 208 hydraulic roof system is complex and so difficult to diagnose and fix. I spent 18 months tinkering with my system before I found and replaced the sensor that was causing the malfunction. It has worked brilliantly ever since, I'm pleased to say.

My first tip would be to spend a couple of evenings studying the threads on this subject on here. Especially this one: https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...-failures.html

Here is how I solved my roof thanks to very helpful advice from Serndipity - https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...p-problem.html

There are some very helpful videos on YouTube especially from TopHydraulics and AutoRepairGuys.

BTW, sometimes opening and shutting the roof manually can jumpstart the system.

KyleKaiser

Thanks to both of you. Mercnotworking, those especially are some really helpful resources and ideas. Much appreciated.

By operating the top manually, I'm going to assume you refer to the way TopHydraulics does it by unlocking the two spots at the rear before lifting the top?

Mercnotworking

That's right. Tophydraulics Videos are really helpful.