R129 soft top stops halfway — hydraulics or switches?
1995 SL320. The top starts, lifts a few degrees, then gives up with no error beep. Is this the classic hydraulic cylinder leak or should I chase the limit switches first?
2 answers
September 6, 2026
★ Best answer
Check the hydraulic fluid level in the reservoir behind the trunk lining first — if it's low you have a leaking cylinder somewhere, usually visible as oil stains in the top compartment or behind the seats. The cylinders can be resealed by specialists for a fraction of new price. If fluid is full, then start on the limit switches.
September 6, 2026
Mine did exactly this and it was one weeping cylinder by the main bow. Reseal service sorted it. Do all of them while the system is apart, they fail in sequence.
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