I'm a brand new mini owner as of about 4 hours ago! 2008 MCS convertible. Sparkling silver sidewalk. I LOVE it!

Except I can't get the top down. I've tried the open top button, and it opens the sliding sunroof just as it should. But when I press it again, the red light on the close top button flashes and the top won't go anywhere.

Tried it with the windows up and with them down.

I read the manual (!) and found that you're supposed to be able to open the top with the central locking switch. Didn't work.

Haven't tried using the unlock button on the key but headed down to go try that now.

Any other ideas? I can't believe I'm having trouble already! I hope it's an operator error, but I've driven 2 other convertibles and never had trouble.

Crossing fingers...thanks in advance.

 

Never mind! I got it..."the loading aid must be locked and the luggage compartment cover must be in its lower position". The loading aid levers weren't locked. As soon as I fixed that, top worked like a charm@!

 

Congrats on figuring it out! As a fellow convertible owner, I can tell you that won't be the last time it happens to you, but now you'll know to check the luggage compartment cover right off the bat.