Top Not Releasing

[sunnslo]

I have just had my second repair on my second top/window. Since having the repair I did not put the top down ,or driven the car for over 2 weeks. I went to drive it and the top mechanism made all the correct noises, but would not unlock from the windshield cowl. The dealer did get it "unstuck" and asked if the car was detailed or whatever. His thought was that some dressing got into the seal and "stuck" the gasket to the top leading edge and the gasket was folded on itself partly. The car had its last detail more than 2 months prior to the top repair and the top had been up and down at least 4-5 times minimum since then. The dealer said they have never had a car with this problem.
Has anyone had this or a similar failure? 2003 > 10,000 miles, original owner.

thanks

[macfly]

I have not heard of this happening, but I can see how your dealer would logically suggest this given the sequence of events described. Please keep us posted on what happens.

[sunnslo]

The dealer has begun to get the repair on track. No exact cause for the problem has been found. The locking mechanism is going to be replaced, although there are none in the US at this time. After discussion I decided to get the window seal at the lead edge of the top replaced. The dealer felt the small "divot"? in the seal would not affect the car, but I plan to keep it in the family for a few more generations so it will be done. The gasket is in the US, but the amount of time to replace is uncertain. I am sure it is a cheap investment in peace of mind.

Thanks
Robbie

[Dogsbreath]

I had that happen once. It followed cleaning the car (and I did clean the wubber strip the top sits on) and then putting the top up very soon afterward. I used gentle sustained pressure and it opened fine - no probems since. I just use soap and water on it now.

dave p