SL/R129 Soft Top/Roll bar controller problem

Oct 8, 2005 | 02:02 AM

mbwrench

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Joined: Oct 2005

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Soft Top/Roll bar controller problem

Hi. I just had my 96 sl500 soft top stop working. The roll bar and soft top switch light up when pressed and neither cause the roll bar or top to move. Both are in the down position. Windows still work. I tired disconnecting the battery, also hold the switches in position for 5 secs to reset. A dealer visit has resulted in a 2200 estimate for repairs plus labor. They say " the controller needs replacing" and the front latches are also bad. This is my second controller - i replaced one 2-3 years ago. They were unable to read my controller - hence the diagnosis of "replace". Top worked fine until one night the lights went on. Not sure how the latches are at fault as i dove the car for 1 month with the top down and no problems. I have located a source to have the controller rebuilt for ~500.00. Question:
1. Where is the controller located ? Under the driver seat ?
2. Is it worth trying an independent shop and have them verify the controller is unreadable or unresponsive ?
3. Any programming or sequencing required if i do replace the controller ?
( I have lowered/raised the windows as mentioned in other thread to synch them)
4. anything else to check or try to clear the problem ?

If i start the car, no lights on roll bar or top switch. touch one and then they both light up. Dealer spent like 2 hours and resulted in "bad controller" as the cause. What "blows" in these things ?

I am rather disapointed with the whole soft top issues with these cars. I was going to get a 2003, but now think a 2004 would be safer.

Any thoughts or help appreciated. tx Tom

Oct 9, 2005 | 04:49 PM

joe1388

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From: Atlanta, Ga.- Sarasota, Fl.

Mercedes: 1998 SL500, 1997 S500, 1998 SLK230 K

Tom:
I am having the same problem with my hard top and roll bar. If you find the location of the controller please let me know. Thanks, JOE

Oct 9, 2005 | 06:11 PM

mbwrench

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controller location

Hey Joe.. sure sucks doesn't it. the controller is located in the rear of the passenger seat inside the storage compartment. i have also located a source that will test and repair if need be for 495. testing i am told is free. ups it to them. much better than 1300 from mr. dealer. the partner number on the controller is 129 820 3926. you can also buy a rebuilt for 695 if u do not wait to wait 3 days ot so for a rebuild on your own..

Oct 10, 2005 | 09:31 AM

joe1388

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Joined: Oct 2005

Posts: 121

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From: Atlanta, Ga.- Sarasota, Fl.

Mercedes: 1998 SL500, 1997 S500, 1998 SLK230 K

Tom; Sure thank you for the info. I will try to find it this PM. If I do I will contact you for the repair shop info.

Nov 15, 2005 | 07:12 AM

carlosj

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Joined: Oct 2005

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top wont work

Hi,

My top also stopped working. Tried a lot of things but no luck. Did you already found a solution? Have you replaced the controller? Anybody knows where can I find a controller (if that is the problem) cheapper than MB dealer?

rgds,
Carlos

Nov 16, 2005 | 02:33 AM

dafi129

Member

Joined: Oct 2005

Posts: 196

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From: Byblos,Lebanon

SL 55 , Infinity FX37, Aprilia Caponord Rally

Did you guys try closing or opening when the car is level?
Mechanism does not work if car is up or down hill..

Nov 16, 2005 | 05:48 AM

b4mmy

Senior Member

Joined: Jul 2005

Posts: 265

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From: Manchester, UK

500 SL R129, Blue - 1991. Mini Cooper S, Works Kit Silver - 2007. Mitsubishi FTO, Silver - 1996.

Quote:

Originally Posted by dafi129

Did you guys try closing or opening when the car is level?
Mechanism does not work if car is up or down hill..

That's right, mine popped up once when I had it jacked up, and one of the guys told me that to reset it you hold back the button for a few seconds until it pings... then you can put it down. All sorts of things go wrong when parked on even a slight incline, including the self levelling system....