Help! 04 one convertible roof issue

[misspiggy]

Dear Mini Friends please help!

I bought my mini only 3 months ago and the roof has failed to go down further than sunroof section a couple of times, with button flashing red. After switching ignition on and off it then lets me close it fully and the next time I have tried it is has worked. It has done this a few times but if I have given up, closed it and carried on with my journey then tried next time I used car it had already righted itself.
I tried to put the roof down fri went to sunroof it then unlatches the hooks but doesnt move further and button flashes red. Have to turn car off and on to allow to close again and will open to sunroof happily.
I love my little car and I am so upset I took it to the main dealer today who want £172 to look at it. Not to fix it to look at it!
Can anyone help with this in anyway shape or form I think MINI service prices are astronomical and just want her better!

Emma x

[misspiggy]

SOLUTION!

after the stealers attempted rip off yesterday, I sought help from some mechanically minded friends. The roof was unlatching and button flashing red motor making a noise but not going further then sunroof. With gentle pressure on both sides of roof it retracts fully normally. The solution to fix this is to get a clear spray grease at a cost of about £3.50 and lightly grease the runners and pivots. Problem solved!

These guys also do mini graphics and decals in Colchester, Essex check out their website if I am allowed to post a link SS Signs and Designs or find them on facebook.