Top lowering problem on 2004 Saab Aero Convertible

your latches should have adjustments you can use a wrench to loosen or tighten

The "top"? Convertible top? I would check the fuses first as it is always possible to blow a fuse when a battery is connected (or disconnected).

gear motor that operate's top is in need of lubracation

You need to hook up the car to the factory tool, and check for codes. I think the lower limit for the main or 5th bow potentiometer needs to be adjusted. lots of service information at www.saabservices.com in the convertible top section

Most probably is a leak somewhere, the sensor in the reservoir picks up when the level is low as to prevent engine damage. I would get it checked out. when repairing the water leak they should automaticly replace the coolant so i would just top it up with normal tap water till then. be carefull the water can burn you, so only open the bottle once the car is cold.

1. How did you obtain the message about something is in the trunk? I take it the top will not even begin to move when you try to operate it.

If you lower the back seat you will see a plastic cover on the botom of the opening. Remove the cover (6 appolstry fasteners) to reveal a metal box. The box is not actually a box but a cover for the hydrolic pump. Remove the fscrews from the lid and lift. The resevouar is clear and easy to check against the two fill lines on the side.

You are probably leaking hydraulic (ATF) fluid.
Check the lines and cylinders for leaks. Replace any leaking lines or cylinders. Always replace them in pairs.
When the leak is fixed...
Behind the rear seat is the motor/pump/reservoir.
With the top down, fill the reservoir with ATF.
Cycle the system a few times.
Repeat till the reservoir will accept no more fluid.
You can change it to a manual top by removing the bolt at the top of the cylinders and lowering the both shafts down into the cylinders.

Karl at topgunwon.com

Had same problem, in the boot right hand side, behind the removable panel there is :
1 - a hydraulic reservoir which must be at correct level.
2 - a black box (stc) this controls the roof system,
switch ignition off then pull the 2 connectors off for 30sec then reconnect.
This worked and hope this resolves your problem

"check latches" comes across my screen when trying to lower my convertible top on my Saab 900