When you [manually] open your roof, try lubricating the rails and the portion where it latches (the portion just in front of the dome light). My roof frequently has trouble opening (but not closing). I used a thick grease on it and while it was still oily, it worked without a hitch. Make sure you get a grease with some longevity to it - something that won't dry out too quickly. Hope this helps. If not, then perhaps you need a new motor.