How to Survive Winter with a Convertible

So, your convertible has almost made it through the harsh winter months. Spring is right around the corner and there are a number of things you’ll need to do to ensure your convertible top survives the last leg of winter. We have put together a list of the most important steps to help you keep your convertible in peak shape.

Brush it Off

Hopefully, your convertible is in a covered garage or carport. If it isn’t, it’s important to continue to use a scratch-free brush to remove snow and debris as frequently as possible. If you haven’t been doing this all winter long, you should definitely get started now. Even if your car is not covered with snow, brushing will remove sticks, leaves and debris while loosening stubborn buildup without damaging the fabric.

Drive your Convertible

Even if it is too cold to drive with the top down, you’ll need to start cranking your car and take it for a drive. This will ensure that the battery stays charged, the fluids in the car have a chance to circulate and you are given the opportunity to identify any issues before the driving season begins. Drive the car without the stereo playing and listen carefully to how the car is performing. It will take several minutes for your convertible to warm up, so take a lengthy drive and enjoy!

Wash & Condition

Thoroughly wash and dry your convertible top before applying any type of protectant coating to keep stains or debris from permanently sticking to the material. Removing the dirt, snow and grime that has built up over time is essential to preserving both vinyl and canvas convertible tops. Applying a protectant coating will not only help extend the life of your convertible top, it will help restore the original shine and seal the tiny cracks that can eventually turn into big ones. Periodically washing your convertible and applying an approved protectant is the best way to prevent premature cracking and discoloration brought on by the elements.

Visual Inspection

Now that you’ve listened to, cleaned and washed your convertible, it’s time to do a thorough visual inspection. Use a flashlight and slowly inspect every inch of the inside (and outside) including all tension cables, latches and seams. If anything appears to be compromised, consider replacing or repairing before you have an equipment failure or leak. In many instances, a new pair of cables or a little preventive maintenance can go a long way.

These steps must be performed periodically to keep your convertible top looking its best. While we make convertible top replacement extremely fast and affordable, that doesn’t mean your current top doesn’t deserve some tender loving care. Tell us your favorite tips for keeping your convertible top in shape. We’d love to hear from you!