What would cause a convertable top NOT to go down- 98 VW Cabrio
 

My top wont go down at all. I press the button and can hear a buzzing noise but thats it.
My Ebrake light is messed up and is almost always lit even when not in use. Could this also be why?

I dont know if there is a specific fuse for the top or not, and i heard that there is some type of fluid for the top....

Help please

relay
 

under back seat in the middle of floor double relay, not cheap $ 180 CDN . Should get check out by dealer .

Ive got the same problem w/my conv. top. Did the relay fix yours?

If you hear the motor running, then the pump may be malfunctioning or the hydraulic fluid (oil) may have leaked out. It's located in the trunk on the driver's side. remove four screws to get the cover off. The oil reservoir is translucent so you'll know right away if it's empty.

remission,
It could be the e-brake thing. On my '99 the e-brake has to be set before the top will work. But also check the hydorlic fluid level. If you find it low, take the passenger seat off and look for leaks. If you find a puddle of oil, don't assume that it's a line, if could be the lift cylinder. Can't give you a price on the lines, (there are three of them) but a cylinder from VW will cost you $400.
As for fluid, you can use the VW stuff ($$$$) or just use regular Hydorolic Oil.
I have a '99 Cabbie and have just gone through the same thing.

got my problem solved thanks for those amazing shares here with us, its really superb one