how do I reset the soft top on my 99 SL500 to get the top to close? One rear latch hole has the latch gadget showing; the other latch gadget seems depressed. Not sure which is correct.

Lower your driver side window and hold the button for 3-5 seconds then release. Raise the same window and hold the button 3-5 seconds. The repeat with the passenger window. I'm going from memory so let know if it doesn't work. I'll try to locate the article from the service manual.

The above instructions are partially correct for re-syncing the WINDOWS on an SL. After you lower and raise each side - then hold BOTH window close buttons together for 3 to 5 seconds. Possibly the same function resets top also on earlier models of SL

Neither worked . Could my "latch" question be the issue? (Roll bar seems fully recessed)

Later models of SL's have auto hard tops. The function of these is controlled by two spring loaded switches in the trunk that MUST BOTH be depressed for operation. Just guessing - your model of SL probably has a similar type system that must be switched for proper installation of the hard top. They are simple spring loaded off/on switches. If a spring is broken, stuck, etc the COMMAND system doesn't get the right signal. Some people just put a small wood chip in the switches to keep them always "on". This crude but simple work-around may solve your problem.

Found those switches. They have short lever toward the rear. Can't seem to raise or lower the lever, even with pliers. Levers are almost horizontal. Any idea what correct position is to allow raising the top?

On later model SL's - both switches need to be depressed for the top to operate. This is usually accomplished by having the cargo cover in place and closed. If it is open - the computer thinks the trunk doesn't have room for the top so it will not operate. Your model of SL does not have the retractable top, but probably still has a similar type system. Try this link - http://mbworld.org/forums/sl-class-r129-18/ this should be a good starting point to finally get the problem resolved

Prob solved! Rear latch WAS in the closed position so control "thought" incorrectly. Managed to reset manually to "receiving" position and then did your reset procedure, and...up she went! Thanks

1998 Mercedes sl 500 my rollbar light &top light on but top working & rollbar work when open and close top That all happen after battery dead and I try to start T.Y.

schlieve I seem to have the same issue. How did you get the rear latch into the proper position?

How do I get the top to close on a 1996 Mercedes 320 sl , the battery was low when I started to let down the and it went part of the way . I changed the battery and the roll bar light and up and down light is on but top will not go up or down

I have A 98 mb 500 sl my soft top is on and I can’t open it I was able to open the front two latches manually but the back won’t open my roll bar is up and won’t move and the red light is on please help