Window, Rollbar & Top controller trouble

[cathystm]

Hi- I posted this on the regular Tech forum and someone suggested I post it on this (the SL) forum.
Glad to know it exists! I need a 'second opinion'.
I have a 1998 500 SL. The battery went dead, recharged it to get it to a shop to get a new battery. New battery was installed, car completely reset (w/MB equipment) Every time it is started, the lights for the rollbar, and top (warning) come on and stay on. Neither works. Windows don't work either. Radio is frozen. All fuses have been checked and they're OK. The shop told me I needed a new 'computer' @ close to $3K. Can anyone tell me the correct name/term for this 'computer' part that I need and where I can get an aftermarket one IF available for a lesser amount? The car runs great otherwise. Thank you for any and all help.

[97 SL320]

Is your radio factory? What do you mean by frozen? There is an unlock code that needs to be entered to make it play after a power outage.

As for the windows , top and bar. Trouble codes can be read from the top computer but I have not tried that on mine yet. I'm not sure if the window controls are in the same box but, at least the later cars need the windows resynced by running them up and down to allow the top to work. But, being you windows won't work at all there must be a larger problem.

From what you are describing, I'd be real tempted to disconnect the battery , let it for a few minutes then reconnect the battery. When reconnecting be sure to install the terminal in one motion and not allow it to spark more than once. Doing so can make computers lock up similar to installing a battery in a digital clock and having the display scramble.

Was this shop a dealer or independent shop? It might be worth spending 1 hr labor at the dealer to have them give 2nd opinion.

This company rebuilds / tests some computers ( I have not used them but they seem to be the ones to use. They have a web site but I don't have the link. )

Beckmann Technologies, Inc. - MB electronic control modules
3333 Industrial Drive
Durham, North Carolina 27704
(800) 742-1021