Andykin

Hi there, I’m new to this forum and have a 1997 280 R129. I’m enjoying it and the soft roof opens and shuts fine with the red flashing button. However, it only does this with the ignition on and the engine not running. My question is whether this is correct as I’ve seen posts advising operating the roof while the engine is running.
Sorry if this is an obvious question or others have answered it!

ChrisB

I tend toward opening and closing with the car running ... even when moving very very slowly.

And I have opened and closed with the key in position 2 (motor not running) ... but when I do I have the feeling I am making batteries work too hard. Probably my imagination.

Your point is, that the top will not open or close when the motor is running? I have never experienced that.

bobterry99

I presume some electrical signal to the roof controller is being affected by the engine running. This could be quickly and effortlessly determined with a $300 Chinese-cloned Star Diagnosis PC.

Ahmed

Let me chime in with my observation please:

I usually do that with my engine running, I see no issues with doing that.
Having said that, you can also open or close the roof with ignition in position 2.
I don't know much about battery drain but I am sure there is some if logic serves me right..

Now, here comes the strange part...

When trying to unlock the hard top for removal, or even lock it into place when fitted... the system will only work with ignition in position 2. I have tried it with engine on, it does not work.

Andykin

Thanks so much for your replies. Sounds like it should operate when engine on as well as ignition on second turn, but maybe I just leave well alone as battery is fine and all works!