I am having issues with my 2008 power convertible top. Hoping someone can help. The cycle to open the top works perfectly. When I go to close it, I hear the release click and the motor operating but no movement, other than the tonneau cover moves rearward just a very small amount. Nothing actually lifts up or starts the cycle. The motor stops when I release the top switch. If I hold it down long enough, I hear the release click again (about every 3 seconds).

My diagnosis so far:
My windows have been indexed.
The partition snaps in the trunk are in place.
Because the top will cycle to the open position perfectly, I believe the fuses are fine for the tonneau cover and top switch. There is also hydraulic pressure.
When I push the switch on the tonneau cover itself, the latch in the actuator behind the waterfall moves up and down, so I know the plastic gear is not stripped. (I just replaced it 3 years ago, that was my 3rd time in 12 years).

I did manually put the top up by releasing hydraulic pressure and closing it by hand. I started the car up and was able to fully put the top down (open). Then, I tried to put the top up. Same issue, the release clicking and motor running, but no movement other than the tonneau moving rearward slightly.

Essentially, I think it has to be one of the microswitches, or the black flat switch on the actuator (near the latch).

Any advice or experience is appreciated. I don't want to start replacing a bunch of parts.

Thank you, this forum has been a life safer.
Scott

 

I should also add:

I manually released the tonneau cover with the cable and lifted it a little. When I hit the convertible top switch on the dash, the tonneau cover comes down and completes the cycle (with the top down). This occurs whether I push the switch UP or down, it will close the tonneau lid to complete the "top down" cycle.