Q: Convertible top fluid brand

asked by on August 02, 2016

My convertible top started acting up today. It wouldn't open or close on its own. But I finally was able to close it top up after a couple of times. I was looking at my fluid level in the cylinder near the pump and it’s a little bit low, just below the Min level with the top up and closed. Is that normal? I don't see any leaks. Do I need to replace the entire thing or can I just add to it up to the Min or Max level? What brand of Hydraulic System Fluid do I use for a 2009 CLK350? Do I unscrew the one bolt and washer then put it back by hand? Is WD40 bad for my top joints? My car has 64,500 miles on it. Thanks.

Electrical components are not working Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello there. When checking the fluid, the top must be in the service position for an accurate reading. This should show the fluid level at the proper level once the top is in the service position.

The bolt and washer are removed carefully and the Mercedes special tool is used to add or remove fluid. The only approved convertible top fluid is the fluid supplied by Mercedes under their own brand.

WD40 is not a lubricate that is used to remove water and rust, but it is not sufficient for lubrication purposes long term. If the top is continuing to not work, then there is likely another fault other than the fluid level. The most common would be one of the top motors being faulty, a bad top position sensor, or a broken top switch. If you need help having these checked, a certified technician from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to diagnose and repair your convertible top.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Can I transport passengers in the cargo area?
Passengers should never, under any circumstances, be in the cargo area of your car when the vehicle is in motion. The cargo area does not have sufficient safety features for passengers, and it is an illegal place for a passenger...
Missing fuses
Hello. There are fuses in your fuse box that control the car’s ability to start. The best thing to do would be to put the fuses back and see if the car starts. If it doesn’t, it could be that...
clarinet noise 80 mph
Hi, there may be too much air coming through the cabin air filter inlet located in the engine bay, and the turbulence of it causes the clarinet sound. I suggest that the condition of the cabin air filter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-cabin-air-filter) is...
Can I reset the computer and if so how?
Hi. The radiator shouldn't make the Check Engine Light come on if it is bad. Your Check Engine Light is on because there is a sensor in your engine sending a bad message to the PCM. To solve this problem,...
Transmission is not shifting out of first and won't start have to tap the starter it's a used transmission I just put it in.
Hi there. Check the brake switch (same as a neutral safety switch) to see if its working. This switch keeps the engine from starting in gear and only allows the transmission to be in park or neutral to start the...
My car has been making a rattle noise.
The heat shield is designed to keep the engine at a specific temperature. I recommend leaving the heat shield on but fixing it to where it does not vibrate. Look for any cracks or broken bolts to see if the...
How to disable a rear view camera in Toyota Corolla ?
The rearview camera can be enabled or disabled using the touch screen display. Perform the following steps: Turn on the touch screen display Touch the “Main Menu” button Touch the option “System Setup” Touch the option “Camera Setup” Touch the...
2006 suzuki florenza drjving fine one second to the next it starts idling rough shuts down at stop, next shuts off while idling
Hi There, It sounds like you may have a dirty or failing idle air control valve causing your engine idle to fluctuate and eventually stall. The idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) is a small valve on the engine's intake system...
The left back tire of my Rav 4 1999 is making a sound like two metals are going against each other
Hi Brandon. Thanks for submitting your question tonight. This type of symptom is commonly associated with a wheel bearing failure. It's not uncommon for a vehicle of nearly 20 years old to have rear wheel bearings fail. If this is...

Related articles

How to Maintain Your Car on a Schedule
You You may be concerned if your car hits the 100,000 mile mark as it may signify the downfall of your vehicle. The longevity of your vehicle does not depend only on the mileage, however, but also depends on how...
5 Commonly Overlooked Vehicle Maintenance Items
Brake fluid, auto transmission fluid, and coolant flushes, as well as cabin filter changes and valve adjustments, are all important services.
Understanding the GMC Oil Life System and Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The GMC Oil Life System indicates when and what service your car needs.