This problem might have been covered before, but I'm new here, so here goes:
I found that the convertible top in my (new to me) '06 Mini S cabrio won't go back if the boot shelf is removed. There's a button (sensor)at the left rear side of the shelf that is enabled when the shelf is installed (the sensor is in the shelf bracket). When the shelf is removed, the sensor is disengaged, and the top won't open. I guess it's a safety feature, but it baffled me until I called my Mini dealer's service dept. I had taken the shelf out to make room for a cooler when I took a trip last weekend.
Hope this helps somebody!
gaminis

 

Just when you think you can't be outsmarted by your car...bam something as simple as drop the shelf to the end of the strings and place it on the sensors comes along.

 

That's mentioned in that manual thingy I think. But it's surrounded by about 10,000 other words and pictures that AREN'T about that... how inconvenient.

 

Thanks Rita..now I know what the stringy thingies are for...service mgr. didn't tell me that.

Blimey, I took the dang manual to bed with me for several nights..must have dozed.. I need a Mini Manual for Dummies!

The only dumb question is the one that you don't ask...Right?

I love this site!

gaminis

 

The manual IS a VERY HARD READ... there is so much stuff in there, the little obscure stuff gets lost in the noise - and it's that stuff that bites you without fail... no shame!

 

Hey, has anyone come up with a way to trick the top to think the tray is in when you've actually removed it? I'll have to take a peek back there and see how the sensor works. That thing is such a pain.

 

it's just a pressure switch -- you could put tape on it.

Just be careful you don't lower the top on a full boot and break the glass window with your cooler (that's why the switch is there)

 

What eager said. Exactly. It's there for a reason - to protect your glass - if you break the glass, you're buying a WHOLE NEW TOP for $$$$$$$.

 

My salesman showed me that "feature" on picking up the car. It was a ***** paying MSRP but at least I knew what was happening when my top wouldn't open. BTW, my Saab's computer provided you with instruction when the top wouldn't operate due to an obstacle ie. the "Check Trunk" message meant something in the trunk was obstructing the convertible top bag.