How to Operate a BMW E46 Folding Top

1. Lower the windows using the electric window control switch. Put the gear shift into 'Park' and set the emergency brake for safety.
2. Grasp the convertible locking handle between the sun visors. Turn it counterclockwise and pull it downward. Inspect the area in front of the gear shift. You will see a button with a convertible top icon. Push it.
3. Step out of the car. Grasp the rear base of the convertible top, beneath the rear glass. Lift it up about 1 foot. Beneath it, you will find the rear cover. Pull the rear cover up and rear-ward to move it out of the way. It is attached to the car by a hinge.
4. Gently pull the front edge of the convertible top rear-ward to fold it into its storage compartment. When it is flat, push the rear cover forward to cover the folded top. Firmly push the cover down to snap it into place.
5. Push the 'Unlock' button in front of the gear shift when you are ready to raise the top. This will unlock the rear cover.
6. Lift the rear cover to expose the folded top. Grasp the rear edge of the top and pull it toward the front of the vehicle to move it to the 'Closed' position. Grasp the rear edge of the top and lift it about 1 foot. Fold the rear cover down, and then push the rear edge of the top back in its place.
7. Turn the locking handle between the visors clockwise and push it upward to lock the convertible top.
8. Some E46 models have an automatic folding top. To operate this top, push the 'Open' button in front of the gear shift to open the top. Push the 'Close' button to close the top. The car must be stationary.