Convertible top not working message "Top Malfunction"

Hi Paul,

Unfortunately, there is no easy fix for these systems. I attached the basic warning messages and what they mean. Your message is the last in the list and it may be hard to see but it says to see dealer for service.

These tops have a series of micro switches that go in a series or progression and the control module needs to see each one complete its proper movement before it begins the next movement. In other words, the decklid needs to open prior to releasing the latches, and the latches need to release prior to moving the roof and so on. Basically, you don't want to just operate everything at once or just assume everything is working because if one component does not work then you will bind the top or worse yet, open the top onto the decklid and damage something.

The only way this can be figured out is to hook a scan tool to the vehicle and monitor each switch to find out which one is not functioning and then repair or adjust as needed.

These things are well known for being opened and someone still have golf clubs or obstructions in the trunk and the top collapses onto it and it bends the Z hinges and then nothing functions right.

Let me know if you have scan tool that can read the Power Top Control Module and I will send you the progression and we may be able to figure this out.

That is good information. Without seeing what the switches are doing with the scan tool, everything you described sounds like a pump issue. Add in the fact that was want the previous owner had it diagnosed as, I would agree. Obviously this is a bit of a guess still because we haven't confirmed it but the humming noise is the pump. The windows dropping together is normal because if the window do not drop then the top moving could make contact with them and they will break.

Here is the process on how to replace the pump and check the fluid level:

Let me know what you think and we can go from there. Thank you for your service as well. Because of people like you, we are free to talk about cars on the internet!

That actually makes sense. The windows dropping when the top is going down, I believe is one of the last steps so if it doesn't get past the first step, it will not get to the point of dropping the window. However, when raising the top, it is one of the first steps.

Yes if the fluid is low, it would have a leak because this is a sealed system. However, I included that level check for the new pump. I am not sure if the new pump will require you to add fluid. If so, you want to use the proper fluid. You can not use brake fluid. The proper fluid is ARAL VITAMOL ZH-M.

I included a picture of the fluid and Mopar part number. However you can use another brand but most are about the same price. I would suggest performing the repair and then checking the level before buying it. It is pretty costly and completely useless if you don't need it for this purpose. Its not like you can change your lawn mower engine and use it up if you have it left over. So again, just see if you need it and then source it. Most any parts store will have an equivalent.

I hope this is your issue and you can enjoy your car. Please let me know how you make out.