Tips for Getting your Convertible Ready for Spring

Spring is fast approaching and you’ll soon be able to start driving your convertible again! Hopefully, you’ve properly stored your convertible for the harsh winter months. It’s now time to take it out of storage and perform the standard maintenance to ensure your convertible top is safe and functioning properly. The cold air can have a negative impact on your convertible soft top causing it to be less pliable and develop cracks when back in operation. With the proper care, your convertible soft top can last for years even with harsh weather conditions. We’ve put together the best tips for getting your convertible ready for spring weather.

Brush it off

Use a soft-bristle brush to remove any snow or debris from your convertible top. The brush will prevent any scratches or cuts from forming while you clean off the excess debris. Brushes with wire or hard bristles can scratch the fabric or material and can damage stitching or seams. Brushes with horsehair or soft synthetic bristles are the safest for convertible soft tops.

Wash Your Convertible

This might seem like a no-brainer, but it is important to give your convertible top a good washing to remove the more embedded dirt and grime that has been accumulating over the winter months. A soft-bristle brush or sponge and a quality car shampoo are perfect for getting in deep without damaging the material. Apply sufficient pressure to uproot tough stains without adding stress to the seams and fasteners. Rinse away all excess shampoo to reveal any remaining stains or discoloration and dry with a micro-fiber cloth or towel.

Polish or Wax your Convertible Top

Choose an approved convertible polish or wax to preserve and protect your convertible top. This will help restore the material to its original shine while infusing a protective coating that will repel rain and dirt while keeping your convertible top looking its best. Polish or wax should be applied generously and evenly to ensure the entire convertible top is protected. The polish will dry best if in a dry, open and covered area.

Visually Inspect your Convertible

This is one of the most important aspects of owning a convertible car (That’s why you’ve probably noticed this tip before!). You will need to perform visual inspections frequently to address and preempt any potential issues. Use a flashlight to check from the inside of the convertible passing over every corner and seam. Use your hands to check for loose stitching, cracks or frayed material, and any other inconsistencies in the way the fabric is reacting and settling. Raise and retract your convertible top several times while closely watching to identify any potential snags or pulling.

Listen to your Convertible

After a thorough cleaning and visual inspection, it’s time to listen to your car. If there is any damage to your convertible top not found to this point, driving and listening to your convertible may help identify those issues. If you hear unusual sounds including buzzing or flapping, you will need to do a further inspection to find and remedy those issues.  

Once you have completed all of these steps, it’s time to start enjoying the open road and wind in your hair. If your convertible top is beyond repair, make sure to check out our wide selection of convertible tops for all major makes and models. What are your best tips for prepping your convertible for spring? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!