996 Top Won't Close

[jcashen]

Hello,

I would appreciate your advice.  I have a 1999 (996) Cabriolet with a top stuck in the open position.  When I push the close button, the clamshell opens but the top will not rise.  I can’ hear any sounds being made at this point that would indicate the top is trying to rise/close.  This started happening sporadically about a month ago, but it would always raise after repeated tries.  Also, I had an independent shop check and top off my hydraulic fluid within the last 3 months so I don’t think that would be the cause.  The hydraulic cylinders themselves were replaced with rebuilt units 3 years ago.  If it matters, the car has a manual transmission and 87k miles. 

Thanks for any help on where to start diagnosing this.

Joe

[Ckroeger]

Sounds like the hydraulic pump ran out of fluid.  Check this link 

 

[jcashen]

Thanks for the reply. Question:. If my hydraulic fluid is low,would I notice it leaking on my garage floor? There haven't  been any puddles. 

[jcashen]

Upon further investigation I noticed that the passenger side bodyflap is not opening when I try to raise the top.  Any idea why this might be happening and how to fix?  See pictures below.  Thanks. 

[devin_wala]

On mine the piece that you have circled and mechanism below it was broken.  The motor was good condition but the unit functions much the same as a window regulator and some small plastic piece had broken off.  You will want to verify the unit is getting electricity or physically see that the unit is broken before getting a replacement.  If you look in the manual or search online for the procedure for emergency top operation it tells you how to lower the side flap manually (don't go through the whole procedure).  Once the side flap has been lowered you can likely raise your roof electronically to give you access (if needed, don't remember) to remove the flap mechanism.  I replaced my unit with a used one off of Ebay.  The cloth covering can be swapped out with the one from the old unit so you do not need to get one of a matching color.