Some 2016-2023 Camaro convertible models (Fig. 1) may have a power top (RPO CM8) that does not fully complete the folding cycle. A Top Not Secure message also may be displayed on the Driver Information Center (DIC).
Fig. 1
When opening the folding top, the canvas top may stow into the rear compartment, and the tonneau cover (folding top stowage compartment lid) may close. In this case, it appears that everything is in working order. However, the Top Not Secure message is still displayed on the DIC.
When closing the folding top, the top will latch down onto the windshield as designed. The tonneau cover also may close, but then the folding top cycle will stop, leaving the tension bow (or 5th bow) pointing up in the air at about a 45° angle. After about five minutes, a series of rapid audible tones may be heard and the tension bow (or 5th bow) will slowly lower and come to rest gently against the body.
These opening and closing conditions may be caused by the B244L/B244R folding top stowage compartment lid position sensors not transitioning correctly when the tonneau cover has closed.
If these conditions are found, check the status of the B244L/B244R Folding Top Stowage Compartment Lid Closed Position Sensors in the scan tool data. Both sensors should read as “On” when the tonneau cover is in the closed position. Regardless of the position of the tonneau cover, both the left and right sensors should always have the same reading — On or Off — as a pair. If one sensor does not transition as it should, the power folding top may not cycle completely, and these conditions may occur. (Fig. 2)
Fig. 2
Power Folding Top Inspection
If the folding top is not cycling completely, several areas should be inspected. The first step is to determine if there is a mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical concern. Electrical issues include faulty sensors and pinched wiring, which may be more common on rental vehicles or fleet vehicles, where items may be forced into the rear compartment and may inadvertently work their way around the luggage barrier, or trunk partition, (Fig. 3) causing damage to the folding top linkage.
Fig. 3
Mechanical issues to check include the left and right stowage compartment lid hinge assembly for any looseness or play, as compared to the opposite side. (Fig. 4) In some cases, the linkage can be moved by hand about 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) or more, which may cause the sensor to transition back and forth. Use the scan tool to view the sensor readings while moving the linkage. With the mechanical linkage secured in place, there should not be any free movement. The linkage uses an over center/cam design that, once hydraulic pressure on the component is released, will remain secured in place and will not move. Hydraulic failures that affect the mechanical linkage are rare.
Fig. 4
These inspections will help to determine if the folding top condition is due to a faulty sensor, pinched wiring or a damaged hinge assembly.
TIP: A simple visual inspection of the left and right rear compartment hinge assembly will not be sufficient to determine if a hinge assembly is damaged or not.
Refer to #PIC6470 and #PIC6378 for additional information.
– Thanks to Matt Bierlein
