SLK (R171) remote vario-roof operation retrofit?

[Mustow]

Does anyone know if it's possible to retrofit remote vario-roof operation from the key? I know this is a fairly low cost option when bought new but my SLK280 AMG Sport wasn't fitted with it (didn't get it new) and it seems like a nice gadget to have.

[steve-p]

It uses small IR sensors in the doorhandles and they would probably be expensive to retrofit, assuming they aren't there on all cars. The way it works is you have to have the key pointing at the doorhandle from really close up, with the remote button pressed the whole time the roof is going up or down. It sounds better than it is, and I didn't use mine much, so I don't think you're missing out by not having it. Most people retrofit the Piecha/SmartTOP module instead because it gives a lot of other advantages, like one touch operation, roof operation while moving and remote control from the standard key e.g.

http://www.slkworld.com/general-modifications-r171...

[Mustow]

SmartTOP looks good and I've found someone in Canterbury who sells it for £175 so quite cheap too. I am a little nervous about trying to fit it myself though as the link you gave seems to show several problems for the home fitter. Have you any experience of this unit or could you recommend someone who could fit one? I live in North London.

[steve-p]

I never got round to getting one myself. Fitting is slightly different for RHD cars, but I know some UK people have done it successfully and implied it wasn't too hard. A competent auto electrician or maybe ICE fitter could probably do it quite easily. I suggest you register on SLKWorld and ask there, they are very helpful. I think at least one of the people who fitted it may have been in London too actually.

[Mustow]

Thanks for your help steve-p, I'll post again when I get it done.