BMW Repair: 1996 328i bmw convertible top, auto body shops, swithes

Question
the top would not come up on this car.  I could not hear any motor noise when I engaged the switch to raise the top.  I took it to a dealer to get the top up.  He advised replacing the top and motors and swithes at a cost of around $1900.  Is there a cheaper solution?  Also prior to the top sticking in the down position sometimes it would slightly jam and I would have to help it up.  Any suggestions?

Answer
Wilbur,
 I know it's appealing to take the car to a dealership, but they will charge you double to do the same job as another shop would.  I would pop out the switch next to the shifter (or where ever it is located) and clean it.  Sometimes that's all the problem is.  Take some electrical contact cleaner and spray in the switch to make sure it still works.  

 If this doesn't fix the problem, I would take it to a local German/European garage and have them look at it.  Just get a quote for starters.  Take it to some auto body shops as well, most of them have experience removing tops for paint as well.
 
 Good luck,
 Josh