98 slk 230 kompressor
 

My retractable hard top works up and down but the light flashes and it beeps randomly. What might cause this and is it expensive to fix?

could be the micro-switch where the passenger side roof pin goes in above the visors. you can look in and see it. there are a couple of screws in the over head lights. you have to go through the lens. a 12" plastic wedge to pry the lens open on the back side toward the rear of the car. use something that won't scratch. remove visors and pull straight back on the trim, don't pull down. it's held on with glued on clips. I had to re-glue them with "Goop" automotive. be careful of the wires still attached. that would be a cheap and easy place to start for your problem.

happens when the roof is not fully locked - keep button pressed forward untill locked.

that switch is what tells the car the top is closed.