Hey There!

I have been the proud owner of a 2000 MB Limited Edition SLK230 Roadster for 4 years now. This summer, however, I started to notice a unique problem with the top. It takes longer and longer to get it open. It normally used to take about 25 seconds, but now, it gets stuckfor about 4-7 seconds at the point the locking latches are supposed to disengage, and then it operates normally.

I took it into the dealership when it first started and they just lubricated everything. But I think the problem is getting worse! Any thoughts? I'd hate to get the top stuck in the down or up position, especially in northeast winters.
I can't really see any mechanical/physical problems, and the motors sound normal.

Thanks for any help you can provide!