PhilipGlen

Tried closing my convertible, the trunk lifted up, windows retracted but the top didn't budge. I can hear the motor running. I found what looked like a reservoir under the spare tire. Is that the hydraulic fluid reservoir? Anyone have similar issues? Thx

bobterry99

Yes, it is the reservoir. If you are an optimist, then it should be at least half full.

Search for "vario roof troubleshooting aid".

PhilipGlen

Thank you. There is just a small plastic line attached to the reservoir, no separate filling port. And, it's empty, lol.

White Spyder

If it is empty, you have a leak somewhere. First suspect is the front lock cylinder. Several good threads on this cylinder, I did one of them. Good luck.

Frederick NL

Reservoir? Plastic line? Sounds to me like you’re referring to the buffer for the pneumatic system. Assuming we’re talking R230 SL, the roof pump is located to the left, next to the spear tire. It is sound proofed by a gray foam block. Go easy as you pull it of as it should be tucked in under metal at places. Now you can see the hydraulic reservoir, directly attached to the pump. (Below sits the pneumatic pump, for all locks and some seat features).

PhilipGlen

Ah, thank you!! That makes more sense.

Rudeney

This may help you identify the hydraulic fluid reservoir and check its level:

http://benzbits.com/r230/roof/FluidLevelRevised.pdf

PhilipGlen

Thanks Rodney. Will low hydraulic fluid lift the trunk but not the roof? the trunk lifts up, windows retract, but the top doesn't budge. I can hear the motor running though.

SublimeZ

I had this (or similar) issue 2 weeks ago. Mine was a plastic cover bound up. Wiggled it a bit to free and all was good.

Rudeney

It sure could, especially if there is a leak in a roof lift cylinder. That would explain the fluid loss and lack of lifting power.

cybercord

I had somewhat of the same problem on my R230 2009 SL63. The conv top and truck cover would not open or close. At first it was having slowness issue then would open/close. It was having issues opening from the back and closing with the buttons on trunk lid. Finally stopped altogether. I also was starting to have issues with the keyless lock system . Took to the dealer and got it fixed. It was the passenger side control module. This unit controls flasher, turn signals, the conv top and a few others. Expensive but not sure the other MB mechanics could have figured this out. Dealer had the part in stock and validated before repair and replace. Ok so it was expensive, ~$1100. But as other issues were weird and hard to diagnose, all if fixed.