Convertible Top Issues Part II
#46
Looks like CNAuto has changed the tool a little
https://m.cnautotool.com/goods-7144-...RoCzQMQAvD_BwE
https://m.cnautotool.com/goods-7144-...RoCzQMQAvD_BwE
#47
Hi....sorry, just got back in town. I wrote down the steps to fix my top, but they are for my car in the position the top was stuck in. The directions for my top might be in a different order than for someone else. Also, my issue occurred when the battery died in mid cycle, so it was definitely a reset issue, where someone else might have a bad hydraulic pump, etc. The Consult is expensive, so better to be reasonably sure it will fix the problem. If someone with the same issue wants to PM me, I'll be glad to go over it with them. I could also make a video of the steps using the Consult, if the top was completely closed....but that could take a while.
#48
I’m glad to hear that I’m not alone. I’ve got a 2010, and this happened to me in 2018. I drove the 45 Miles to town with that constant beeping. I honestly don’t remember much of the drive so I think my brain has made me forget such a traumatic incident. When I got to the infinity dealership they could not figure it out so they gave me the choice of leaving of keeping it down, or up permanently. I chose up, which now I regret because living in South Texas it is rarely below 80° and on those weird occasions where it’s under 50 I could just drive my jeep.
Nonetheless, I’d like to get my convertible fixed but don’t know where to start, or what to do. When the top went back up There were several horrible ramifications from this. First I can’t open my trunk, Not that much of a trunk but anytime I have a flat tire on a tire repair I’m screwed.
Also when they put it up a lot of the electric things in the car stopped working. For instance the only way for me to unlock the passenger door is to manually reach over and unlock it. The back windows also do not go down anymore.
I remember they gave me a quote for 2500 or so, and I vaguely remember finding the part for less than $200 but they would not use my part of course.
I’m ready to retire this car from being a daily driver but still want to keep it for driving to the beach or around town every now and then.
My question is where do I start with getting this fixed. I called the Infiniti dealership about a month ago to see if they still have the quote in their system. After being on hold for an hour, one guy finally said they would get back to me when they found it and never called me. Does anyone know where I could start this process, how much it might cost me? Do I need to replace the whole thing or they’re just certain aspects I need to test? Any advice would be greatly appreciated because I recently really mess the top down driving by the water. Best panty dropper ever, I really would like to love my car again. Every now and then when I wash it I remember the joy I had now I don’t.
I really would like to love my car again
Back when I actually cared and kept it clean
I hate this driveway. Still gives me nightmares but at least I haven’t had to call a tow truck like that day again.
.
Nonetheless, I’d like to get my convertible fixed but don’t know where to start, or what to do. When the top went back up There were several horrible ramifications from this. First I can’t open my trunk, Not that much of a trunk but anytime I have a flat tire on a tire repair I’m screwed.
Also when they put it up a lot of the electric things in the car stopped working. For instance the only way for me to unlock the passenger door is to manually reach over and unlock it. The back windows also do not go down anymore.
I remember they gave me a quote for 2500 or so, and I vaguely remember finding the part for less than $200 but they would not use my part of course.
I’m ready to retire this car from being a daily driver but still want to keep it for driving to the beach or around town every now and then.
My question is where do I start with getting this fixed. I called the Infiniti dealership about a month ago to see if they still have the quote in their system. After being on hold for an hour, one guy finally said they would get back to me when they found it and never called me. Does anyone know where I could start this process, how much it might cost me? Do I need to replace the whole thing or they’re just certain aspects I need to test? Any advice would be greatly appreciated because I recently really mess the top down driving by the water. Best panty dropper ever, I really would like to love my car again. Every now and then when I wash it I remember the joy I had now I don’t.
I really would like to love my car again
Back when I actually cared and kept it clean
I hate this driveway. Still gives me nightmares but at least I haven’t had to call a tow truck like that day again.
.
#49
Forum members will generally be willing to help you if you never use the phrase "panty dropper" again. Ever.
Let's start with the basics - did you hook up an obd code scanner? What are the codes that you are currently seeing?
Have you checked all of the fuses? If you have multiple electrical issues at the same time, it is likely to be fuse related.
We have also seen some electrical wires getting damaged by the roof mechanism in the trunk (guess we'll have to wait to check that until you get your trunk opened).
I'm still puzzled how you've gone over 4 years without a working roof ... or trunk.
Did you try opening the trunk from inside the car and with a popper with your key in hand?
Has your car been flooded at all - whether rain or driving through deep water?
This might be a silly one, but have you tried doing any sort of modifications that would involve your electrical system or the roof mechanism?
Let's start with the basics - did you hook up an obd code scanner? What are the codes that you are currently seeing?
Have you checked all of the fuses? If you have multiple electrical issues at the same time, it is likely to be fuse related.
We have also seen some electrical wires getting damaged by the roof mechanism in the trunk (guess we'll have to wait to check that until you get your trunk opened).
I'm still puzzled how you've gone over 4 years without a working roof ... or trunk.
Did you try opening the trunk from inside the car and with a popper with your key in hand?
Has your car been flooded at all - whether rain or driving through deep water?
This might be a silly one, but have you tried doing any sort of modifications that would involve your electrical system or the roof mechanism?
#50
As Kiseliok asked, what is the history of this car, if known? Flood/ salvage vehicle?
Take the "Roof Operation" out of the equation for the time being.
All of your other issues (trunk, door lock(s), windows) all point to a issue with the BCM and/or the Roof Control Unit (RCU). The BCM area of the car is prone to water intrusion from various sources (sunroof, firewall grommet, cowl seals, weatherstripping/ seals). While you do not have a sunroof, water can still leak into this area and cause all sorts of electrical gremlins. I would first start there. Pull the cover off of the BCM and start checking for water, corrosion, or other signs of damage. Make sure all of your fuses are good.
Did you try opening the trunk using the MECHANICAL KEY? It is a convoluted procedure but it exists.
Now, as far as the "Roof Operation" is concerned.... without proper tools there is no way any of us can know what the root issue is. If you have a good scan tool that might yield some results. It is highly unlikely that the entire roof has to be replaced. But, even if the parts were still available, the cost would outweigh the value of the car. Are you mechanically inclined/ will you be doing the work yourself or paying a mechanic?
Take the "Roof Operation" out of the equation for the time being.
All of your other issues (trunk, door lock(s), windows) all point to a issue with the BCM and/or the Roof Control Unit (RCU). The BCM area of the car is prone to water intrusion from various sources (sunroof, firewall grommet, cowl seals, weatherstripping/ seals). While you do not have a sunroof, water can still leak into this area and cause all sorts of electrical gremlins. I would first start there. Pull the cover off of the BCM and start checking for water, corrosion, or other signs of damage. Make sure all of your fuses are good.
Did you try opening the trunk using the MECHANICAL KEY? It is a convoluted procedure but it exists.
Now, as far as the "Roof Operation" is concerned.... without proper tools there is no way any of us can know what the root issue is. If you have a good scan tool that might yield some results. It is highly unlikely that the entire roof has to be replaced. But, even if the parts were still available, the cost would outweigh the value of the car. Are you mechanically inclined/ will you be doing the work yourself or paying a mechanic?
Last edited by ILM-NC G37S; 08-15-2022 at 10:42 AM.
#51
Forum members will generally be willing to help you if you never use the phrase "panty dropper" again. Ever.
Let's start with the basics - did you hook up an obd code scanner? What are the codes that you are currently seeing?
Have you checked all of the fuses? If you have multiple electrical issues at the same time, it is likely to be fuse related.
We have also seen some electrical wires getting damaged by the roof mechanism in the trunk (guess we'll have to wait to check that until you get your trunk opened).
I'm still puzzled how you've gone over 4 years without a working roof ... or trunk.
Did you try opening the trunk from inside the car and with a popper with your key in hand?
Has your car been flooded at all - whether rain or driving through deep water?
This might be a silly one, but have you tried doing any sort of modifications that would involve your electrical system or the roof mechanism?
Let's start with the basics - did you hook up an obd code scanner? What are the codes that you are currently seeing?
Have you checked all of the fuses? If you have multiple electrical issues at the same time, it is likely to be fuse related.
We have also seen some electrical wires getting damaged by the roof mechanism in the trunk (guess we'll have to wait to check that until you get your trunk opened).
I'm still puzzled how you've gone over 4 years without a working roof ... or trunk.
Did you try opening the trunk from inside the car and with a popper with your key in hand?
Has your car been flooded at all - whether rain or driving through deep water?
This might be a silly one, but have you tried doing any sort of modifications that would involve your electrical system or the roof mechanism?
I’ve tried to get the original quote from those years ago, but they put me on hold for 45 minutes and I give up. I don’t know if I should replace the whole system and start from scratch. Or take it to someone who dosent know anything about hard tops and have them mess it up more.
#52
As Kiseliok asked, what is the history of this car, if known? Flood/ salvage vehicle?
Take the "Roof Operation" out of the equation for the time being.
All of your other issues (trunk, door lock(s), windows) all point to a issue with the BCM and/or the Roof Control Unit (RCU). The BCM area of the car is prone to water intrusion from various sources (sunroof, firewall grommet, cowl seals, weatherstripping/ seals). While you do not have a sunroof, water can still leak into this area and cause all sorts of electrical gremlins. I would first start there. Pull the cover off of the BCM and start checking for water, corrosion, or other signs of damage. Make sure all of your fuses are good.
Did you try opening the trunk using the MECHANICAL KEY? It is a convoluted procedure but it exists.
Now, as far as the "Roof Operation" is concerned.... without proper tools there is no way any of us can know what the root issue is. If you have a good scan tool that might yield some results. It is highly unlikely that the entire roof has to be replaced. But, even if the parts were still available, the cost would outweigh the value of the car. Are you mechanically inclined/ will you be doing the work yourself or paying a mechanic?
Take the "Roof Operation" out of the equation for the time being.
All of your other issues (trunk, door lock(s), windows) all point to a issue with the BCM and/or the Roof Control Unit (RCU). The BCM area of the car is prone to water intrusion from various sources (sunroof, firewall grommet, cowl seals, weatherstripping/ seals). While you do not have a sunroof, water can still leak into this area and cause all sorts of electrical gremlins. I would first start there. Pull the cover off of the BCM and start checking for water, corrosion, or other signs of damage. Make sure all of your fuses are good.
Did you try opening the trunk using the MECHANICAL KEY? It is a convoluted procedure but it exists.
Now, as far as the "Roof Operation" is concerned.... without proper tools there is no way any of us can know what the root issue is. If you have a good scan tool that might yield some results. It is highly unlikely that the entire roof has to be replaced. But, even if the parts were still available, the cost would outweigh the value of the car. Are you mechanically inclined/ will you be doing the work yourself or paying a mechanic?
#53
Personally, I would get my hands on a consult computer and see if it will open the trunk. That particular wire bundle should not be involved with the top harness. You can't solve any of the top issues unless the trunk opens.
Once it is open then start looking to solve the top itself.
I think the other issues are all fuse related or can be solved with a full top cycle with consult.
If you were closer to Virginia I'd say come up for a weekend and we could figure it out. My top was originally in pretty rough shape and I just worked on it by solving one issue at a time. I even did it while recovering from open heart surgery.
#54
In this market, you could easily sell it, as-is, and use that money to get something else. Understand, I am all for DIY, but there are limits...
Last edited by ILM-NC G37S; 08-16-2022 at 04:01 PM.
#55
And...? Did you even try?
This may come off as harsh and that is not my intent, however, I think you are at major crossroad with this car. Your inexperience, lack of skills and tools, the complexity of the roof system, plus the cost of parts will far outweigh the value of this 12/13 year-old car. Even if the issue is as simple as a broken wire or bad fuse, the diagnostic fees will add up. Forget the dealer. Most didn't want to touch these cars when they were new, they are less inclined to do so now without you taking out a second mortgage.
In this market, you could easily sell it, as-is, and use that money to get something else. Understand, I am all for DIY, but there are limits...
This may come off as harsh and that is not my intent, however, I think you are at major crossroad with this car. Your inexperience, lack of skills and tools, the complexity of the roof system, plus the cost of parts will far outweigh the value of this 12/13 year-old car. Even if the issue is as simple as a broken wire or bad fuse, the diagnostic fees will add up. Forget the dealer. Most didn't want to touch these cars when they were new, they are less inclined to do so now without you taking out a second mortgage.
In this market, you could easily sell it, as-is, and use that money to get something else. Understand, I am all for DIY, but there are limits...
#56
And...? Did you even try?
This may come off as harsh and that is not my intent, however, I think you are at major crossroad with this car. Your inexperience, lack of skills and tools, the complexity of the roof system, plus the cost of parts will far outweigh the value of this 12/13 year-old car. Even if the issue is as simple as a broken wire or bad fuse, the diagnostic fees will add up. Forget the dealer. Most didn't want to touch these cars when they were new, they are less inclined to do so now without you taking out a second mortgage.
In this market, you could easily sell it, as-is, and use that money to get something else. Understand, I am all for DIY, but there are limits...
This may come off as harsh and that is not my intent, however, I think you are at major crossroad with this car. Your inexperience, lack of skills and tools, the complexity of the roof system, plus the cost of parts will far outweigh the value of this 12/13 year-old car. Even if the issue is as simple as a broken wire or bad fuse, the diagnostic fees will add up. Forget the dealer. Most didn't want to touch these cars when they were new, they are less inclined to do so now without you taking out a second mortgage.
In this market, you could easily sell it, as-is, and use that money to get something else. Understand, I am all for DIY, but there are limits...
Yes I tried the key. In fact the people at the dealership told me what Had to do to shut the trunk. And that was jamming it down to where it doesn’t open anymore.
#57
If you remove the access panel and, using the metal key, the trunk still does not open, then your car has bigger issues...
Either way, it is your car, your wallet, and your teeth. How you proceed is up to you.
Either way, it is your car, your wallet, and your teeth. How you proceed is up to you.
Last edited by ILM-NC G37S; 08-17-2022 at 12:45 PM.
#58
This is definitely a tough one. I think you have a few things to try here until we can help diagnose the issues further.
Gas millage is not terrible considering the age and what this car is. I get 20-22 with 285 tires, a tune, and having plenty of fun with it.
Also, don't think it's bad on tires. If you peel out from every light and stop sign, you'll burn through the rears very quickly. Otherwise, keep your suspension healthy and the tires will last just as long as any other car.
Gas millage is not terrible considering the age and what this car is. I get 20-22 with 285 tires, a tune, and having plenty of fun with it.
Also, don't think it's bad on tires. If you peel out from every light and stop sign, you'll burn through the rears very quickly. Otherwise, keep your suspension healthy and the tires will last just as long as any other car.
#59
On top of the other "complaints" mentioned, I'd say sell it and get something else. There are plenty of "less complicated," more reliable drop tops on the market.
Just my 10˘...
Last edited by ILM-NC G37S; 08-17-2022 at 09:54 PM.
#60
Possibly need gears?
UPDATE FOR METAL GEARS:
OK guy's, many of you seems interested to get replacement gears for convertible flap gears. Like i said in numerous previous posts, i find a machine shop who was willing to machine metal replacement gears for me. I replace both side on my 2011 vert g37. They work as great as new oem ones but, they are most durable than the cheap plastic oem.
Some of you ask me if i got more in stock. Unfortunatly, they are all sold but, if i have a minimum of 6 order (a pair or one side) i will be able to get more machined. So i suggest to email me to place your order. Quicker a get 6 command, quicker i can place ther order.
If some of you are serious and want one or two, you can e mail me at : guy.menard305@videotron.ca.
I also adjust the price lower ( cost me less for second batch) at 500$ usd for a pair and 260$usd for one side only.
it wont last forever!!!
Thanks!
Guy Ménard
OK guy's, many of you seems interested to get replacement gears for convertible flap gears. Like i said in numerous previous posts, i find a machine shop who was willing to machine metal replacement gears for me. I replace both side on my 2011 vert g37. They work as great as new oem ones but, they are most durable than the cheap plastic oem.
Some of you ask me if i got more in stock. Unfortunatly, they are all sold but, if i have a minimum of 6 order (a pair or one side) i will be able to get more machined. So i suggest to email me to place your order. Quicker a get 6 command, quicker i can place ther order.
If some of you are serious and want one or two, you can e mail me at : guy.menard305@videotron.ca.
I also adjust the price lower ( cost me less for second batch) at 500$ usd for a pair and 260$usd for one side only.
it wont last forever!!!
Thanks!
Guy Ménard