Vario Roof Mod - A Clue???

RacerCub68 · 07-24-2006

Excuse the stupidity...

What is this "Vario Roof" mod I see many people list? I thought it was the ability to raise and lower the roof with the key fob, which I have as part of the Premium Package. Is that correct?

I also saw where someone listed putting the vario roof in a mode and shocking thier service guy. Is that like one touch operation or what?

Thanks for the assistance.

*easty* · 07-24-2006

The mod is a black box unit you can wire into you car so it allows single touch open and close. Not the "dead mans hand" hold it until it's finished process. It also works via the RF so you would have the range similar to your door lock/unlock to open/close the roof. I understand there are two manufactures of the mod so far. the most popular I understand has been the http://www.piecha.com/ I have installed it and its superb!

**-1-** · 07-24-2006

Another "thumbs up" for this great product. Many on the forums have purchased and installed. Haven't heard any complaints other than some snags with installation. Plenty of info and help from other to guide you through the installation if you need help. A+ item. Do a search for tons of information.

**etyu** · 07-24-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by RacerCub68

Excuse the stupidity...

What is this "Vario Roof" mod I see many people list? I thought it was the ability to raise and lower the roof with the key fob, which I have as part of the Premium Package. Is that correct?

I also saw where someone listed putting the vario roof in a mode and shocking thier service guy. Is that like one touch operation or what?

Thanks for the assistance.

Yup. Totally different from OEM.

Remote operation via RF: click the unlock button 3x on key fob, car unlocks, the roof retracts (up to 150 ft away with the regular whip antenna); click the lock button 3x on key fob, car locks and roof raises.

Press and hold the center console control for the roof only for 1 second: roof closes or retracts, while you do other stuff.

Roof opens and retracts also at slow speed using the center console control lever (programmable to a max of 30 mph), caution: smooth road only, no speed bumps, useful when trying to operate the roof and the traffic light changes.

The module is invisible to SDS (Star Diagnostic System) when deactivated. Cheaper in cost than the OEM Lexan plexiglass. I installed mine around Memorial Day (end of May) and probably operate the roof 3 to 4times daily.

bejak · 07-24-2006

Hi. Is this module easy to install by yourself?
Need special programming?
Where is it located in the car? In the trunk? Has somebody got pics?
This gadget would be perfect for me.

Bengt

**etyu** · 07-24-2006

The module is easier to install on LHD (left hand drive) vehicles than on RHD. Here's a link:http://www.benzworld.org/forums/r171...mote-roof.html Pages 11, 28 are the most helpful.

The module is not difficult to install. It is located in the tray that holds the wiring harness/wiring loom at the floor of the cockpit just next to the door sill. Minimal programming: only to activate/deactivate and setting the max speed at which you want the roof to operate.
I also have the pdf on the installation of the module from piecha.com. PM me and I'll send it to you via email.

**reallife** · 07-31-2006

I installed my Vario roof control in about 45 minutes. I would never go back to doing without this mod. It is the most useful thing I could imagine having. Get it, install it, and you will love it. No regrets.

The other day I took my car in and showed it to my sales rep. He was astounded when he saw the top going down as we exited the showroom.

I took him for a ride and when he saw the AMG logo on the COMMAND screen he said: "I didn't know the SLK COMMAND displayed the AMG logo?" My reply was only: "Mine does".

**-1-** · 07-31-2006

It's a shame, the masses don't have a clue. I learned so much from various forums. Most forums have sales people that post. I've never seen one on any of the MB forums.

**Ynot** · 08-03-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by reallife

I installed my Vario roof control in about 45 minutes. I would never go back to doing without this mod. It is the most useful thing I could imagine having. Get it, install it, and you will love it. No regrets.

I agree, I can't live w/o it, had a porsche convert get behind me while I lowered it going 30mph. He was amazed, you definately get alot more enjoyment with the mod than w/o.

RacerCub68 · 08-08-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ynot

I agree, I can't live w/o it, had a porsche convert get behind me while I lowered it going 30mph. He was amazed, you definately get alot more enjoyment with the mod than w/o.

Actually, the Boxster already allows up to 32 MPH to put the roof up or down.

To clarify tho, you don't lost the double press on the console button to lower and raise all windows, correct? It has to be dis-connected when taken in for service?

noregret4life · 08-08-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by RacerCub68

clarify tho, you don't lost the double press on the console button to lower and raise all windows, correct? It has to be dis-connected when taken in for service?

No, you do not lose the double press on the console button.

And yes, you may want to disable it when going in for service. To do so it is really easy. Just need to press the END CALL button on the steering wheel. And you will see 3 flashes from the blinkers. Then do the same to activate it again.

It's just too easy...

**etyu** · 08-08-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by noregret4life

No, you do not lose the double press on the console button.

And yes, you may want to disable it when going in for service. To do so it is really easy. Just need to press the END CALL button on the steering wheel. And you will see 3 flashes from the blinkers. Then do the same to activate it again.

It's just too easy...

Just to clarify, after installation of the KVM: key in position 1, press end call button on steering wheel for 3 seconds. turn indicators flash once = module deactivated and invisible to SDS. Repeat the procedure, turn indicators blink or flashes 2x = KVM is activated.

RacerCub68, I have the PDF on the install from piecha. PM me and I'll send them to the email address of your choice.

noregret4life · 08-08-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by etyu

Just to clarify, after installation of the KVM: key in position 1, press end call button on steering wheel for 3 seconds. turn indicators flash once = module deactivated and invisible to SDS. Repeat the procedure, turn indicators blink or flashes 2x = KVM is activated.

RacerCub68, I have the PDF on the install from piecha. PM me and I'll send them to the email address of your choice.

ok etyu, i admit it, i never actally read that whole install PDF... HAHA

I read so much about it on the forum that when it came to the install, i felt like i've already installed 100s of them

Thanks to all the knowledge shared on the subject!

**etyu** · 08-09-2006

[quote=noregret4life]ok etyu, i admit it, i never actally read that whole install PDF... HAHA

I read so much about it on the forum that when it came to the install, i felt like i've already installed 100s of them

[quote]

You are the gifted one!

you can do things on the fly.

*easty* · 08-09-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by noregret4life

ok etyu, i admit it, i never actally read that whole install PDF... HAHA

I read so much about it on the forum that when it came to the install, i felt like i've already installed 100s of them

Thanks to all the knowledge shared on the subject!

Same here it was a little weird. I bought mine soon as they were available, but was away on holiday the time it arrived and by time I got to install mine there was already a 5 page thread on the installation and issues. pretty dam cool really.

**Ynot** · 08-09-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by RacerCub68

Actually, the Boxster already allows up to 32 MPH to put the roof up or down.

To clarify tho, you don't lost the double press on the console button to lower and raise all windows, correct? It has to be dis-connected when taken in for service?

He had a 911 cabrio, I'm not sure if those are caple of doing that, he seems amused.

You don't have to disconnect anything, just press the end call button while key is in position 1 as etyu indicated. I disable it yesterday to get a oil/filter change, and when I got my car back, it took a second to reactivate it before driving off. One of the member brought it for $245, which is a great price but I'm not sure if it's the same one that piecha.com and xtc sells.

noregret4life · 08-09-2006

That was me, my friend... i bought it off ebay (Piecha module)

The previous owner bought 2 of these from Piecha for their SLKs, however installed only 1. No idea why not the second.

I cought a good deal and shipped it from Germany.

RacerCub68 · 08-10-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by noregret4life

No, you do not lose the double press on the console button.

And yes, you may want to disable it when going in for service. To do so it is really easy. Just need to press the END CALL button on the steering wheel. And you will see 3 flashes from the blinkers. Then do the same to activate it again.

It's just too easy...

Only problem is, if they trace the wires to find a problem and find the box, there goes the warranty....

07-24-2006	#1 (permalink)
RacerCub68 Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: South Beach (Miami Beach, FL) Vehicle: 2006 SLK350 - All Opts. Except AMG Package & Auto. Clean looking 6-speed. Posts: 710 Country: Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Vario Roof Mod - A Clue??? Excuse the stupidity... What is this "Vario Roof" mod I see many people list? I thought it was the ability to raise and lower the roof with the key fob, which I have as part of the Premium Package. Is that correct? I also saw where someone listed putting the vario roof in a mode and shocking thier service guy. Is that like one touch operation or what? Thanks for the assistance.

07-24-2006	#2 (permalink)
easty Moderator Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Montreal Vehicle: ///AMG Posts: 2,075 Country: Thanks: 17 Thanked 19 Times in 9 Posts	The mod is a black box unit you can wire into you car so it allows single touch open and close. Not the "dead mans hand" hold it until it's finished process. It also works via the RF so you would have the range similar to your door lock/unlock to open/close the roof. I understand there are two manufactures of the mod so far. the most popular I understand has been the http://www.piecha.com/ I have installed it and its superb! __________________ "I'm not a roman mum, I'm a kike, a yid, a heebie, a hook-nose, I'm kosher mum, I'm a Red Sea pedestrian, and proud of it!" Life of Brian To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

07-24-2006	#3 (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	Another "thumbs up" for this great product. Many on the forums have purchased and installed. Haven't heard any complaints other than some snags with installation. Plenty of info and help from other to guide you through the installation if you need help. A+ item. Do a search for tons of information. __________________ 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

07-24-2006	#6 (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	The module is easier to install on LHD (left hand drive) vehicles than on RHD. Here's a link:http://www.benzworld.org/forums/r171...mote-roof.html Pages 11, 28 are the most helpful. The module is not difficult to install. It is located in the tray that holds the wiring harness/wiring loom at the floor of the cockpit just next to the door sill. Minimal programming: only to activate/deactivate and setting the max speed at which you want the roof to operate. I also have the pdf on the installation of the module from piecha.com. PM me and I'll send it to you via email. __________________ *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. Last edited by etyu; 07-25-2006 at 02:12 AM.*

07-31-2006	#7 (permalink)
reallife Senior SLK World Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Gig Harbor, WA Vehicle: 2006 SLK 55 Posts: 154 Country: Thanks: 0 Thanked 1 Time in 1 Post	piecha module I installed my Vario roof control in about 45 minutes. I would never go back to doing without this mod. It is the most useful thing I could imagine having. Get it, install it, and you will love it. No regrets. The other day I took my car in and showed it to my sales rep. He was astounded when he saw the top going down as we exited the showroom. I took him for a ride and when he saw the AMG logo on the COMMAND screen he said: "I didn't know the SLK COMMAND displayed the AMG logo?" My reply was only: "Mine does".

07-24-2006	#5 (permalink)
bejak Founding Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Sweden, West Coast Vehicle: 2004 SLK200K R171, aut, Iridium Posts: 145 Country: Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Hi. Is this module easy to install by yourself? Need special programming? Where is it located in the car? In the trunk? Has somebody got pics? This gadget would be perfect for me. Bengt

07-31-2006	#8 (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	It's a shame, the masses don't have a clue. I learned so much from various forums. Most forums have sales people that post. I've never seen one on any of the MB forums. __________________ 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

08-09-2006	#14 (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	[quote=noregret4life]ok etyu, i admit it, i never actally read that whole install PDF... HAHA I read so much about it on the forum that when it came to the install, i felt like i've already installed 100s of them [quote] You are the gifted one! you can do things on the fly. __________________ *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.

08-09-2006	#17 (permalink)
noregret4life Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: NJ Vehicle: '05 SLK350 Posts: 1,092 Country: Thanks: 1 Thanked 17 Times in 11 Posts	That was me, my friend... i bought it off ebay (Piecha module) The previous owner bought 2 of these from Piecha for their SLKs, however installed only 1. No idea why not the second. I cought a good deal and shipped it from Germany.