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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install the BVRC myself?

How long will it take to install?

Will installation void my warranty?

Does the BVRC start the engine to raise or lower the top?

The one-touch operation sometimes doesn’t work, so I have to hold the switch manually.  What’s wrong?

After I installed the BVRC, the BAS/ESP warning light came on.  What happened?

How do I know if I need to connect the optional orange wire?

Will the splice into the VSS green/white wire affect my navigation system which uses the same signal?

 Can I install the BVRC myself?

The best answer is to look through the installation instructions and see if you are comfortable with following them.  The BVRC has been successfully installed by those who have not done similar electrical work on an automobile before.

Another option is to visit a local shop that installs car audio or car alarm equipment and get an estimate (you may want to show them the installation instructions).  

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How long will it take to install?

This of course depends upon the skill of the installer, but 2 hours is typical.

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Will installation void my warranty?

I suppose that only Mercedes-Benz can answer with authority, but I would argue that the Bipes Vario Roof Commander should not void your warranty.

Installation of the unit itself does not require or result in the alteration or replacement of any component in the car. The device monitors certain signals, and then activates certain others. Press the unlock button on your remote three times and observe the three flashes of the exterior lights. Next, turn the ignition switch to the '2' position. Finally, slide the center console switch back and hold it until the roof opens and is stowed. You certainly did not void any warranty by these actions. The BVRC does exactly the same thing as you, albeit in an automated fashion.

A possible exception involves use of the BVRC 'speed limit' raising function, which permits you to operate the roof at speeds greater than the 3 mph Mercedes-enforced limit. If you damaged the top mechanism while operating the roof at speed, say by running over a big bump and jarring the mechanism, I suppose Mercedes could argue that any resulting damage would not be covered. If you are concerned about this, the 'speed limit' raising function is optional and need not be activated.

The BVRC can be temporarily disabled, restoring operation completely to stock, by removing its fuse. You could easily disable it when taking the car in for any warranty work if you chose to do so. That way a service technician would not inadvertently activate the device and subsequently try to 'fix' it.

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Does the BVRC start the engine to raise or lower the top?

 No.  When using the remote to raise or lower the top, the BVRC does the equivalent of turning the key to position 2.  This provides electrical power to the necessary systems to operate the vario roof.

 The SLK owner’s manual states that it is safe to operate several top up or down cycles on battery power alone.

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The one-touch operation sometimes doesn’t work, so I have to hold the switch manually.  What’s wrong?

The center console switch must be held for second or more to enable a one-touch operation.   To ensure that you are holding the switch for the proper amount of time, wait for the red indicator in the switch to light.  Do not release the switch until after the red indicator has illuminated.

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After I installed the BVRC, the BAS/ESP warning light came on.  What happened?

This is a normal side effect of disconnecting the car’s battery.  It indicates that the steering angle sensor needs to be calibrated.  Per the manufacturer’s procedure, start the engine and, while idling, turn the steering wheel lock to lock.  This should calibrate the sensor and extinguish the warning indicator.

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How do I know if I need to connect the optional orange wire?

The best advice is to not connect it, then try remotely closing the top.  If you have no issue with the alarm, leave the orange wire disconnected.

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Will the splice into the VSS green/white wire affect my navigation system which uses the same signal?

No.  As long as your navigation system taps into the VSS signal ahead of the splice (away from the CCM) you should be fine.

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