my soft top stop working, the red sitch light is on, what could be the problem.

What is your question?

I have a 1997 SL500 with 57000 miles on it and it was working great one day when I had the top open as soon as pressed the red botton to close the top the engine turn off and I couldn't start the car any more, I had it towed away to a mechanic when the car got there the engine started but the top never closed, mechanic said car needs a soft top panel control which cost ove $1000, I can not trust the mechanic word, is that possible?