R129 HARD/SOFT TOP DIAGNOSTIC CHECK
The R129’s electric retractable roof is not short of an engineering marvel. In the 1980s, an electric folding roof was far from feasible, but Mercedes-Benz pulled it out of the bag with the launch of the R129. Naturally though, with the complexities of the micro-switches and the fragility of the electrical modules, poor or failing roof operation is one of the most common issues presented to new and existing owners.
HOW WE DIAGNOSE YOUR R129
Whatever the symptoms of poor operation you are experiencing, our team will follow a strict routine to establish the source of the issues. Depending on the year of your R129, we will start by testing your roof’s operation before using the relevant ECU reader for your era of R129. Early models depend on a simple flashing code reader, whereas the later models require a STAR computer to establish the roof of the issue. In the occasions where the ECU doesn’t reveal the issue, our expert craftsmen will test different modules and micro-switches to establish the root of the issue.
You can read about the most common soft top issues in this article
WHAT WILL IT DO FOR YOU AND YOUR CAR?
Issues with your Soft Top’s electrical components will likely reveal wider problems with the state of your hood. Over time, the hood will rip and lose its tightness, allowing water to penetrate the interior of your R129 SL. In some scenarios, diagnosing and repairing electrical faults can lead to a replacement soft top hood, ensuring the issues won’t reoccur.
FUTURE VALUES & USABILITY
A fully operational Soft Top will ensure your R129 ownership experience is pure joy. You’ll be able to continue to use your car with confidence, knowing that you won’t be stranded with the roof stuck down or up in the wrong scenarios. In addition, a fully functional and new soft top hood will be a valuable record of maintenance, showing to potential buyers you have cared for your vehicle, enabling you to achieve a higher return for your vehicle.
Heath Check
SLSHOP’s Sam Bailey explains what an SLSHOP Health Check is all about, what it achieves and what areas it covers. Does your SL need a health check?
Fabrication Tour
Undoubtedly, the fabrication shop is the beating heart of SLSHOP. Here, our team of experts work to save cars from extinction. An R107’s structure is complex. It needs to be approached in exactly the right way. We’re proud of our fabrication team and the work they do. Ultimately, it’s the foundation that the other departments rely on.
Poke your head inside our fabrication shop.
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Why Choose SLSHOP?
As the world’s leading SL specialist, more than 10,000 SLs have passed through our workshops and showroom. As such, the level of knowledge possessed by our technical department is unsurpassed. Our service team lives and breathes on the sharp edge of the market. Undoubtedly, there’s no better place to go for advice and guidance on your SL.
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Workshop Life
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CARE
THE ULTIMATE CERTIFIED SERVICING INVESTMENT PLAN
Your ownership journey matters to us, which is why we have created a simple certified servicing investment plan, tailored to your individual needs and aspirations.
Start investing today and our dedicated CARE team will work with you to increase the value and enjoyment you receive from your vehicle.
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