Z3 Convertible top - seems to be a common problem

You can always close the top by pulling it up by hand. It pulls hard but you can pull it up and it might require two peaple, and then latch it down. Fuses fail to connect in the fuse panel and the switchs fail as do the motor in the pump that makes the top move. Your right also that if the car doesn't sense that the e= brake isn't on or the is'nt moving it'll not work the top either. Many fuses have to be good for all the systems that interlock the top to work the most common fuse to blow is the cigar lighter fuse as peaple plug in things that short out oftern.

If the convertible top switch not working properly every-time.Then the switch and its electrical connections/wirings needs to be checked. The switch is typically located in the trunk, positioned right beside the covering of the left or right tail light. The switch should be set to automatic, not manual. If the switch is properly set, then other things are causing the problem. The other things blocking the top to move up and down is its hinges.If the hinges are bent or cracked or got loose then this can be the other reason. If the hinges are in good condition, then check the convertible top struts. These are the mechanisms that lift the convertible top. Lift struts deteriorate due to wear and tear and will need to be replaced if it's the source of the problem. Another very common reason for a not working convertible top is the worn out elastic straps. Furthermore, the convertible top's fuse could be blown out and as a result it's causing the convertible top to stop working. In newer latest models the convertible top is controlled by a single button conveniently located next to the handbrake. You press a button to release a center locking device - none of this moving the sun visors out of the way and releasing two latches on other sides of the car stuff! - then twist the device with its conveniently large handle. Then you press the button, and if you're lucky, it'll work the first time. If not, try it again! The temperature display goes from blue to yellow and shows a "convertible top opening" graphic, and the top opens up and neatly folds itself in back. You can release the button when it beeps again. Putting it back on again is the same basic process, though you have to wait for the beep, then press the latch release, twist it, pull down, then re-twist the latch again. Thanks. you can rate this solution and show your appreciation.

Make sure the parking brake is engaged first. Then just push the button next to the parjing brake.

I think you can ask this guy for the pdf file for your car, seems like he has everything
http://stores.ebay.com/Fancy-Motorcars?_rdc=1
let me know if you got it

your need to have the motor and that circuit check and the modules on the vehicle the operate those functions

Check all your fuses there must have been a cut fuse that is not enabling power to reach it.

Rate this

I have this same vehicle and have had some problems with my top as well. Apparently, it is pretty common as I was recently talking to a shop owner with the same model and I were comparing notes. First thing to check is that the two "nobs" in the trunk are not rotated. The two nobs I am referring to are located on the top of the trunk when opened and when moved, either drop or lower the compartment into which the convertible top drops into when lowered. If these nobs are not turned so that the compartment is available, the top will not work. I have always wondered why they even installed those, but I was told it was so that we could have that extra 3" of storage space if absolutely needed. If the nobs are in the right position and your top is still not working, you can manually drop or bring up the top by turning the red handle (also located in the trunk near the convertible top storage) so that it is no longer flush, but turned so that you can see the 'O' shape. This has been my only option when my top started acting up in the middle of a Florida thunderstorm. Fantastic timing these things have. I hope this was helpful. If you are like most others who own the z4, or any bmw (or even a vw), you know that the mechanics (engine, etc.) are great in the fact that they rarely, if ever, cause any issues, but silly things like the stupid cup holders (don't get me started) and eventually bigger, but still aesthetic, items liek the top are the first to go. Would still never trade the z4 for a sedan.

You must ensure that you have your foot on the brake and both windows are half down

they are runon hydraulics you may have a leak in the hose but yes u can disconnect the motor and raise and lower it maunally

Try using the all windows up and down button (Drivers side on door), evidently after you change your battery this is the reset proceedure.