Spring is
fast approaching and it’s time to prep your convertible for the long drives
inevitably in your future. If your convertible has been parked in the same spot
for several months, there are steps you’ll need to take before driving again.
Likely, you properly stored your convertible for the winter months and your work
will be quick and easy. However, all of these steps should be taken each season
to ensure your convertible remains safe and looking great.
Tune up
If you’ve
stored your convertible for an extended period of time, you’ll want to perform
a tune up before driving. This includes replacing or checking all fluids and
filters, as well as properly inflating and performing a thorough inspection of
the tires. The brake, power steering, and other lines should also be inspected
for cracks and leaks caused by cold, dry winter air. Any small cracks and tears
have likely grown into what may now be potentially dangerous leaks.
Repairs & Upgrades
Hopefully,
you spent the last few months saving your hard earned money in anticipation of
the repairs and new accessories your convertible may need after its long winter
nap. Now’s the time to address these issues. If your convertible has damaged
brackets or straps, replacing them can prevent the fabric from snagging or
coming loose, which will cause moisture and mold to seep in. Tears or holes in
the convertible top always lead to bigger problems when not addressed and end
up damaging much more than the top itself. Whether you need new headlight
fixtures, seat covers or a complete convertible top replacement, now is the
best time to invest in your convertible to ensure you preserve the interior.
Since springtime is the most advantageous time for convertible driving, it
makes perfect sense to install upgrades and accessories now. From wind
diffusers to kidney grilles, spring is the time for your convertible to shine!
Wash & Detail
Now that
you’ve given your convertible a tune up, repaired any damaged parts, and added
your favorite upgrades, it’s time to give it a good cleaning. You may notice
several spots on your convertible after such a long break. It’s important to
make sure these spots don’t begin to eat away at your paint, causing permanent
damage. However, spot cleaning won’t cut it. This is when your convertible
deserves that extra tender loving care. A thorough carwash is a great way to
identify leaks in the convertible top, window seams, and other areas, as well.
Your convertible soft top will require scrubbing with a soft bristle brush to
prevent scratches or tears. Once your convertible is clean and dry, a generous
layer of wax/polish should be evenly applied to seal in the natural shine of
your car’s paint job and also prevent future falling dust and debris from
settling in.
Drive
After all
your hard work, it’s time to go for a drive! The first drive of the season
should be done in order to diagnose any potential problems including wind noise
from compromised seams and/or tears in the fabric of your convertible’s top. If
the convertible has been parked for an extended period of time, it may take a
few minutes for the dust to shake out. Brakes may squeak and the steering may
be a bit tight. Give the vehicle a few minutes to adjust to being driven again
before accepting that there’s a problem.
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