Original Issue Piecha module vs SmartTop, personal impressions

**etyu** · 12-28-2006

I thought I'd post on a new thread instead of hijacking Woolly's, as his post is about installing the SmartTop on a RHD.

Nothing wrong with the original issue Piecha module. It does have some minute limitations. (I might as well post my impressions on both as I have switched to the SmartTop module last night and had a chance to test its features today).

As pointed out, the most important feature is to be able to operate the roof remotely from the SmartKey. Both do this well.

Piecha Module (minor disadvantages):

1. A bit difficult to operate the roof using the center console lever as one has to press and hold for 1 second. There's a slight hesitation in the roof operation after the lever is released. It has occasionally failed to operate about 3-4x in the last 7 months of ownership. Sometimes with the car in motion, sometimes with the car at rest.

2. Unable to program to bring the windows down after the roof has retracted without pushing the remote key Unlock button 3 more times.

3. Unable to remove key off ignition without halting roof operation (this can go both ways, it is a safety feature; however, some would prefer to close the roof after parking and be able to pull the key out after turning the engine off and remove the key. BE VERY CAREFUL THAT YOU DON'T GET HIT BY THE CLOSING VARIOROOF as you get out of the car).

SmartTop (minor advantages):

1. Only a single quick click on the center console lever operates the roof about one second of letting go of the control lever.

2. Ability to leave main side windows up after retracting the roof with two clicks on the center console control lever, one second apart.

3. Ability to remove key while the roof closes without interrupting/halting the roof operation (this could also be viewed as a disadvantage or safety issue as discussed above with the Piecha module), this feature can be programmed where the ignition off is disallowed (i.e., roof operation stops when key is removed from ignition).

4. Windows only operation from SmartKey, opening or closing.

SmartTop (minor disadvantage):

1. Flashing turn signal lamps when roof is operated via SmartKey. The flashing is too quick, like Hazard Lights on amphetamines/"speed". The flashing might induce seizures/convulsions in sensitive individuals. Too much bling, bling, bling, bling, bling .... (did I just get a minor seizure?

)

2. Programming is a bit complicated, especially trying to get into the different functions. I had to read the instructions 3x on how to enter the programming mode, not easy when the instructions are printed in very fine print. They look like the fonts are printed in 5 points instead of the usual 12.

**-1-** · 12-28-2006

Eddy, thanks for the comparison info. The SmartTop is obviously second generation and improved. Personally, I see no reason to remove and replace the Piecha Module, for a few "nice" features when the objective is lowering and raising the top remotely. For those that waited, the SmartTop module is a great product.

jimbobalooba · 12-28-2006

Where do I find the SmartTop module and what can I expect to pay??

**Woolly** · 12-28-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by jimbobalooba

Where do I find the SmartTop module and what can I expect to pay??

Go to the 'SLK Store' on this very forum, and you will find them.

**etyu** · 12-28-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by -1-

Eddy, thanks for the comparison info. The SmartTop is obviously second generation and improved. Personally, I see no reason to remove and replace the Piecha Module, for a few "nice" features when the objective is lowering and raising the top remotely. For those that waited, the SmartTop module is a great product.

Don, you're right, which is why my statement was: Nothing wrong with the original issue Piecha module. I plan to try the SmartTop for a few weeks/months and decide which one to keep..

**-1-** · 12-29-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by etyu

You're right, which is why my statement was: Nothing wrong with the original issue Piecha module. I plan to try the SmartTop for a few weeks/months and decide which one to keep..

GREAT! Keep us posted with your observations.

jimbobalooba · 12-29-2006

Thanks Wooly

mtiede · 12-30-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by etyu

... I had to read the instructions 3x on how to enter the programming mode, not easy when the instructions are printed in very fine print. They look like the fonts are printed in 5 points instead of the usual 12.

I downloaded the PDF of instructions (I think from their site) and printed it myself. Then only one page prints per paper side. Easier to read!

**etyu** · 12-30-2006

I've noticed the following qwerks or idiosyncracy so far from the smartTop module:

1. When setting the max speed for roof operation (car running at constant xxmph, press and hold end call button on steering wheel for about 3.5 seconds) the green indicator/turnsignal arrows do not flash, instead I get a short beep as confirmation. It is the same beep confirmation, whether I did it at 15 mph, 25 mph, 30 mph or 35 mph. The roof does operate while vehicle is in motion.

2. The chirp sound on lock/unlock does not work on my car (US 2006 SLK 280). I believe I read somewhere that the SDS has to be set at Netherlands for this to work.

No biggie, as I was planning on turning this feature to OFF anyway -- sometimes people get annoyed with this sound especially if you're travelling and getting ready to leave early in the morning, the chirp sound wakes other people up.

So far all the features work as advertised.

mtiede · 12-31-2006

I was kinda hoping to get that chirp feature because I constantly turn around to see if I actually did lock the car and relock it just in case. If it chirped, I would know. Unfortunately, I think you have to have the alarm siren for that feature and I apparently don't have the siren.

Please someone correct me if I am wrong.

**etyu** · 01-01-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by mtiede

I was kinda hoping to get that chirp feature because I constantly turn around to see if I actually did lock the car and relock it just in case. If it chirped, I would know. Unfortunately, I think you have to have the alarm siren for that feature and I apparently don't have the siren.

Please someone correct me if I am wrong.

Is the alarm siren different from what was already installed by the factory? I mean the car does sound an alarm if you press and hold the PANIC button.

Any explanation is greatly appreciated.

mtiede, when you program SmartTop to operate the roof while driving (say 25 mph), do the indicators flash once as confirmation? or do you get a beep instead as confirmation?

DansSlk · 01-01-2007

I don't think the alarm feature works anymore when using the module (A little birdy told me MB might be changing the commands so the module features could be time limited) if you want the chirp mate when your next at the dealer have them set the alarm country to Netherlands thats all that needs to be changed not the whole car operating system.

You should the have the chirp when you lock the car

**etyu** · 01-01-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by DansSlk

I don't think the alarm feature works anymore when using the module (A little birdy told me MB might be changing the commands so the module features could be time limited) if you want the chirp mate when your next at the dealer have them set the alarm country to Netherlands thats all that needs to be changed not the whole car operating system.

You should the have the chirp when you lock the car

Thanks mate.

DansSlk · 01-01-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by etyu

Thanks mate.

No worries buddy.

Glad to help

**dsb** · 01-01-2007

Thanks Etyu!

I was considering upgrading to the new module too. However, I think I'll hold off now.

Although I always wanted the option of removing the key as the top continues to close, I dislike a couple things.

Smartop disadvantages (to me)
-1 quick press to open or close. I would rather have to hold the button for 1 second (Piecha) so there is less chance of accidentally opening or closing.
-Especially dislike the hazard lights flashing. Too much bling or safety. Either way, it attracts attention and for what? Makes no sense.

**etyu** · 01-01-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by dsb

Thanks Etyu!

I was considering upgrading to the new module too. However, I think I'll hold off now.

Although I always wanted the option of removing the key as the top continues to close, I dislike a couple things.

Smartop disadvantages (to me)
-1 quick press to open or close. I would rather have to hold the button for 1 second (Piecha) so there is less chance of accidentally opening or closing.
-Especially dislike the hazard lights flashing. Too much bling or safety. Either way, it attracts attention and for what? Makes no sense.

Hazard lights only come on when the roof is operated using the remote key. The lights stop when you insert the key but the roof continues to finish its operation.

bloflin · 01-02-2007

I have the original Peicha module (for a while now) and love it.

On the closing the top when leaving the car, I close the top after getting out of the car, have to hit the lock button once anyway (to lock the car), so twice more isn't a problem. I wouldn't want to start the top before exiting the car, as many times I pull my self up and out, by grabbing the top of the windshield (would be a big ouch!).

What is important to me if for the top to continue the open as I walk up, open the door and start the car, and drive off. The original Peicha does that, though I swore the info on it, says it would stop the cycle.

On the alarm/chirp.

I just had mine in for the 10K service (AMG), and had then turn the door lock chirp on.

It really is just a chirp. It will NOT disturb anyone, and in fact I wish it was louder, as if you are in a busy parking lot, you won't hear it, as you walk away.

It gives one chirp on unlock and three quick chirps on lock.

It's NOT using the horn, almost sounds like it's coming from inside the car.

12-28-2006	#1 (permalink)
etyu Founding Member #2 / Ambassador Of Good Will Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Orange County, CA Vehicle: 2008 SLK 55 Posts: 5,279 Country: Thanks: 376 Thanked 277 Times in 168 Posts	Original Issue Piecha module vs SmartTop, personal impressions I thought I'd post on a new thread instead of hijacking Woolly's, as his post is about installing the SmartTop on a RHD. Nothing wrong with the original issue Piecha module. It does have some minute limitations. (I might as well post my impressions on both as I have switched to the SmartTop module last night and had a chance to test its features today). As pointed out, the most important feature is to be able to operate the roof remotely from the SmartKey. Both do this well. Piecha Module (minor disadvantages): 1. A bit difficult to operate the roof using the center console lever as one has to press and hold for 1 second. There's a slight hesitation in the roof operation after the lever is released. It has occasionally failed to operate about 3-4x in the last 7 months of ownership. Sometimes with the car in motion, sometimes with the car at rest. 2. Unable to program to bring the windows down after the roof has retracted without pushing the remote key Unlock button 3 more times. 3. Unable to remove key off ignition without halting roof operation (this can go both ways, it is a safety feature; however, some would prefer to close the roof after parking and be able to pull the key out after turning the engine off and remove the key. BE VERY CAREFUL THAT YOU DON'T GET HIT BY THE CLOSING VARIOROOF as you get out of the car). SmartTop (minor advantages): 1. Only a single quick click on the center console lever operates the roof about one second of letting go of the control lever. 2. Ability to leave main side windows up after retracting the roof with two clicks on the center console control lever, one second apart. 3. Ability to remove key while the roof closes without interrupting/halting the roof operation (this could also be viewed as a disadvantage or safety issue as discussed above with the Piecha module), this feature can be programmed where the ignition off is disallowed (i.e., roof operation stops when key is removed from ignition). 4. Windows only operation from SmartKey, opening or closing. SmartTop (minor disadvantage): 1. Flashing turn signal lamps when roof is operated via SmartKey. The flashing is too quick, like Hazard Lights on amphetamines/"speed". The flashing might induce seizures/convulsions in sensitive individuals. Too much bling, bling, bling, bling, bling .... (did I just get a minor seizure? ) 2. Programming is a bit complicated, especially trying to get into the different functions. I had to read the instructions 3x on how to enter the programming mode, not easy when the instructions are printed in very fine print. They look like the fonts are printed in 5 points instead of the usual 12. __________________ *Eddy* To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Pewter/Beige, PIII package, Airscarf, Hands-Free Communication System, Lighting package Designo Black Leather Cover on e-brake handle, ( To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Bill T), SmartTop v1.0, Kleyman 3BFM (NoRegret Custom), Green Air Filters, *Mod. R170 ant.*, EuroClear sidemarkers w/PIAA PlasmaIon lamps, chromed front & rear turn indicator lamps, PIAA SuperPlasmaGTX front parking lamps, bilateral rear fog lamps enabled.

12-28-2006	#2 (permalink)
-1- Don Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Virginia USA Vehicle: SLK 55 ///AMG The MON55TER on the block Posts: 2,224 Country: Thanks: 54 Thanked 57 Times in 41 Posts	Eddy, thanks for the comparison info. The SmartTop is obviously second generation and improved. Personally, I see no reason to remove and replace the Piecha Module, for a few "nice" features when the objective is lowering and raising the top remotely. For those that waited, the SmartTop module is a great product. __________________ To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. *----------------1-----------------* --------SLK 55 ///AMG--------- THE MON55TER ON THE BLOCK

12-30-2006	#9 (permalink)
etyu Founding Member #2 / Ambassador Of Good Will Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Orange County, CA Vehicle: 2008 SLK 55 Posts: 5,279 Country: Thanks: 376 Thanked 277 Times in 168 Posts	Some qwerks from SmartTop module: do you have the same experience? I've noticed the following qwerks or idiosyncracy so far from the smartTop module: 1. When setting the max speed for roof operation (car running at constant xxmph, press and hold end call button on steering wheel for about 3.5 seconds) the green indicator/turnsignal arrows do not flash, instead I get a short beep as confirmation. It is the same beep confirmation, whether I did it at 15 mph, 25 mph, 30 mph or 35 mph. The roof does operate while vehicle is in motion. 2. The chirp sound on lock/unlock does not work on my car (US 2006 SLK 280). I believe I read somewhere that the SDS has to be set at Netherlands for this to work. No biggie, as I was planning on turning this feature to OFF anyway -- sometimes people get annoyed with this sound especially if you're travelling and getting ready to leave early in the morning, the chirp sound wakes other people up. So far all the features work as advertised. __________________ *Eddy* To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Pewter/Beige, PIII package, Airscarf, Hands-Free Communication System, Lighting package Designo Black Leather Cover on e-brake handle, ( To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Bill T), SmartTop v1.0, Kleyman 3BFM (NoRegret Custom), Green Air Filters, *Mod. R170 ant.*, EuroClear sidemarkers w/PIAA PlasmaIon lamps, chromed front & rear turn indicator lamps, PIAA SuperPlasmaGTX front parking lamps, bilateral rear fog lamps enabled.

01-01-2007	#12 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	I don't think the alarm feature works anymore when using the module (A little birdy told me MB might be changing the commands so the module features could be time limited) if you want the chirp mate when your next at the dealer have them set the alarm country to Netherlands thats all that needs to be changed not the whole car operating system. You should the have the chirp when you lock the car __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

01-01-2007	#15 (permalink)
dsb Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: NorCal Vehicle: '06 slk55 Posts: 1,176 Country: Thanks: 67 Thanked 120 Times in 42 Posts	Thanks Etyu! I was considering upgrading to the new module too. However, I think I'll hold off now. Although I always wanted the option of removing the key as the top continues to close, I dislike a couple things. Smartop disadvantages (to me) -1 quick press to open or close. I would rather have to hold the button for 1 second (Piecha) so there is less chance of accidentally opening or closing. -Especially dislike the hazard lights flashing. Too much bling or safety. Either way, it attracts attention and for what? Makes no sense. __________________ SOLD! 06 Mercedes Benz SLK55 Caspian Blue / Black & Ash *To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.*

12-28-2006	#3 (permalink)
jimbobalooba SLK World Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Glasgow, Scotland Vehicle: 2006' SLK 200 SE Other Toys: Bikes Posts: 42 Country: Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Where do I find the SmartTop module and what can I expect to pay??

12-29-2006	#7 (permalink)
jimbobalooba SLK World Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Glasgow, Scotland Vehicle: 2006' SLK 200 SE Other Toys: Bikes Posts: 42 Country: Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Thanks Wooly

12-31-2006	#10 (permalink)
mtiede Founding Member #7 Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Western New York Vehicle: 2006 SLK 350 Posts: 1,642 Thanks: 100 Thanked 55 Times in 45 Posts	I was kinda hoping to get that chirp feature because I constantly turn around to see if I actually did lock the car and relock it just in case. If it chirped, I would know. Unfortunately, I think you have to have the alarm siren for that feature and I apparently don't have the siren. Please someone correct me if I am wrong.

01-02-2007	#17 (permalink)
bloflin Founding Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Austin, TX Vehicle: SLK55 AMG Posts: 65 Country: Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	I have the original Peicha module (for a while now) and love it. On the closing the top when leaving the car, I close the top after getting out of the car, have to hit the lock button once anyway (to lock the car), so twice more isn't a problem. I wouldn't want to start the top before exiting the car, as many times I pull my self up and out, by grabbing the top of the windshield (would be a big ouch!). What is important to me if for the top to continue the open as I walk up, open the door and start the car, and drive off. The original Peicha does that, though I swore the info on it, says it would stop the cycle. On the alarm/chirp. I just had mine in for the 10K service (AMG), and had then turn the door lock chirp on. It really is just a chirp. It will NOT disturb anyone, and in fact I wish it was louder, as if you are in a busy parking lot, you won't hear it, as you walk away. It gives one chirp on unlock and three quick chirps on lock. It's NOT using the horn, almost sounds like it's coming from inside the car.