1996 SL 320 Convertible Top Issues
 

This is an FYI for anyone with convertible top operation issues. After I had removed my hardtop this Spring, I could not get the soft top to lift. There were no codes and I did send the module to a remanufacture place in Taunton, MA to be reprogrammed. All else seemed functional and operational including the roll bar. Then, when I manually raised the top and tried to engage it, while having someone inside depressing the soft top button, the operation function seemed to reset itself. It works fine now.

So, my suggestion to anyone who cannot raise the soft top with the electronic control- have someone depress the button in the console while manually lifting the top. This procedure should be done BEFORE any major trouble shooting of codes, relays, control units, etc. It may just be the one and only fix you need! Good luck! By the way, I LOVE my 1996 SL 320. I have owned at least 3 dozen Benzes- gas, diesels, 300SE, 450SL, 300SD, C280, S500 coupe, etc. This car has been a dream to drive.