While
most people might see a convertible as a non-conventional vehicle to drive
during the winter, convertible owners know that it’s perfectly practical to
drive one year-round. Over time, winterizing your convertible has become easier
to do. Today’s modern convertibles are designed to adapt to their environment.
However, if you have an older convertible or you’re concerned about how to stay
warm in the winter with your convertible, we can help you.
1. Hard
Top vs Soft Top
A
hard top convertible will allow you to have more insulation against cold
weather and will also prevent heat from escaping once it comes into contact
with roof, as it would do in a soft top. Soft top convertibles, although
they’ve advanced to weather-proofing fabric, are still composed of fabrics
which will allow some hot air that rises to escape your vehicle at a faster rate
than a hard top. Although, a soft top will still provide you with a protective
barrier from the cold while you drive your convertible around in the winter.
2. Don’t
Operate Roof in Cold Temperatures
If
possible, try to store your convertible with the roof up. This will prevent
damage to the interior of your convertible. Along with that, you should prevent
operating your roof while it’s cold. Operating your roof between “up” and
“down” can cause soft top convertible fabrics to rip due to the effects of the cold
air on the fibers of the fabric which can weaken elasticity and inhibit the ability
to stretch normally. When this happens, it can cause the fabric to rip as it
stretches out to close after being left down in the cold for long periods of
time. Not only can the fabric rip, but extreme cold weather can stiffen windows
while the top is up. So, if you lower the top, this may cause cracking along
the seams. To prevent this from happening, it’s safer to ride with your
convertible top up at all times when the weather is extremely cold.
3. Check
the Weather
Soft
top convertibles will effectively prevent snow and rain from getting into your
car. That being said, check the weather. Soft top convertibles aren’t made to
withstand the same weight as a hard top. If there’s heavy snow predicted for
your day, storing your soft top convertible outside may not be the wisest
choice. While the fabrics are extremely durable and weatherproof, they’re not
able to carry as much weight on top. Checking the weather and brushing off your
soft top can prevent damage to your roof during the winter months. Be smart
about when you use your convertible when it’s cold outside and always keep it
free from settling snow and debris.
4. Dress
Appropriately
Don’t
allow yourself to be vulnerable to the extreme winter weather while driving
your convertible. Be aware of road conditions and the weather before you leave
to your destination. Wear layers when necessary and, more importantly, opt-in
for driving gloves. Driving gloves are designed to enhance your safety while
driving, allowing you full functionality and grip while providing you with
warmth. As convertibles have advanced, the heating systems have improved as
well. Many convertibles today are made to provide you with optimal heating so
that you are never cold while driving. The major difference in how warmth
compares in a soft top and hard top convertible during winter is that a soft
top will require that your engine is running to maintain its heat since the top
will allow warm air to escape more rapidly. So plan accordingly and you’ll be
able to stay warm and enjoy the drive comfortably.
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