Cayman specialise in solving Mercedes SLK soft top and Mercedes SLK Vario hard top convertible roof repairs
If you are suffering from a wet cabin or boot area in your Mercedes SLK Convertible, contact us and we can talk you through the steps that lead to water reduction in your cherished cabriolet.

Over the years, Mercedes have launched to the market 3 generations of the Mercedes SLK Cabriolet – representing sportlich (sporty), leicht (light), and kurz (short).
The Mercedes SLK cabriolet range was launched between 1996 and 2019 with the R170 1st generation compact roadster between 1996 & 2004. Its successor the R171 was unveiled at the Geneva roadshow in 2004 and the latest model R172, renamed as the SLC Class to conform with the new Mercedes nomenclature in 2011.
At launch in first generation form back 1996,the cabriolet came with a ‘Vario’ metal folding top that was quickly copied across the industry and with the latest model R172 convertible came with the option to order a dark-tinted panoramic glass top moving away from the full metal folding roof (Magic Sky Control). Here, the glass roof panel pulses with electro-chromatic technology from the Maybach luxury limousine which at the push of a button, changes its molecular alignment to make the cabin either light or dark.
Like all hard top cabriolets they have their faults and in particular, lack of attention to care and maintenance can lead to water ingress and the usual electrical and mechanical faults caused by water damage on the operational roof system.
Why use us for your Mercedes SLK roof repairs?
Discounted rates
We diagnose and repair faults accurately, at a considerably discounted rate in comparison to Mercedes dealerships.
Knowledge and expertise
We have dedicated our knowledge and expertise to the convertible roof system and fully understand every Mercedes soft top and convertible model.
High quality equipment
We have the highest quality equipment to ensure your Mercedes SLK is looked after correctly and maintained to the highest standards.
Accurate, efficient diagnosis
We emphasise on accurate diagnosis and efficient and thorough repairs using the latest technology and diagnostic equipment.
1 year warranty
We guarantee our repairs with the minimum of a 1 year warranty.
All roof faults serviced
We service a full range of faults, simply let us know in the contact form or give us a call.
FAQs
Common Mercedes SLK soft top and Mercedes SLK Vario convertible roof problems
- Boot lid catch does not release or you are unable to access boot area
- Convertible roof is stuck open/shut
- Hydraulic leaks or hydraulic pump failure
- Roof requires recalibration or roof reset
- Alignment issues with roof frame
- Cabriolet not operating fully through cycle or stops halfway
- Cabriolet is slow to operate
- Diagnosed roof motor/pump failure
- Drains blocked – water may damage motor
- ECU for cabriolet has failed
- Flap motor fault
- Gonging alarm sound when driving warning the roof is not shut down and locked correctly
- Leaking roof rams
- Leaking roof hoses
- Noisy roof operation
- Rear headrests deployed
- Rollover protection fault
- Position sensor fault
- Soft top only works in one direction
- Soft top warning light flashing
- Switch position – implausible signal
- Tension bow has fallen out of range
- Tonneau not lifting correctly
- Tonneau snags through operation
- Warning light on dash advising problem with Hood
- Water ingress to cabin or boot area
- Windows not dropping when lowering convertible roof
- Wiring loom repair fault
Which Mercedes models do we repair?
- 124 model cabriolet
- Mercedes 129 SL model
- Mercedes C Class W 205
- Mercedes CLK
- Mercedes E Class
- Mercedes W208
- Mercedes W209
- Mercedes SL
- Mercedes W230
- Mercedes R230
- Mercedes SLK
- Mercedes A207