I found manual latches off EvilBay real cheap, and now mine is a "manual". It comes off in seconds and I don't have to worry about the "freeway frisbee"

 

Maybe I missed something, but it sounds to me like you've just retracted the lift arms (for sunroof removal). Put the key in the ignition, but don't turn it. Now push the sunroof button to raise the roof. You should watch the arms come out. Now turn the key and try it.

Worth a shot, eh?

 

just put the key in and DONT turn it at all? And try to open it...
Ill give that a shot....