Do You Need a New Convertible Soft Top?

Owning a soft top convertible is the most exhilarating way to enjoy the time you spend on the road. Thankfully, retractable tops have increasingly become easier to operate, clean, and maintain. However, that does not make them indestructible.  Moisture, temperature changes, inclement weather, and falling debris can all wreak havoc on your convertible top, not to mention the everyday wear and tear caused by raising and lowering the top. While much of this can be avoided with proper storage and care, your convertible soft top is bound to eventually need replacing. So, we’ve put together a few tips for recognizing when it’s time to replace your convertible soft top.

Holes & Tears

If your convertible top has holes and tears, even if they do not fully penetrate into the fabric, obviously it’s a good idea to replace your top. But, if you can see the slightest bit of sunlight creeping through the stitching or other areas and do not address it immediately, these tiny issues will quickly become seriously problematic. Moisture seeping through into your convertible’s fabric and upholstery will ruin your interior over time causing a foul odor that’s difficult to remove. If holes and tears are present, it will be much more cost-effective to replace the convertible top rather than the entire interior. Patching these areas should only be seen as a temporary solution. Patches are not designed to withstand the constant folding that comes with raising and retracting the top.

Stress on the Motor & Frame

If your convertible top is compromised, it’s likely that raising and lowering the top is causing unnecessary stress on the motor, cables, and frame. Any stress can cause the motor to overheat or burn out prematurely, cables to break, and possible bending of the frame. When operating the convertible top, if the motor sounds as if it is straining or the convertible top struggles at any time, it’s best to replace the convertible top or repair the components causing the problem to avoid additional damage.  

It’s For Sale

Unless you’re getting a new one, we know the last thing you want to do is sell your convertible. But, if you are planning on selling your convertible, a new convertible top can go a long way towards convincing a buyer to commit. It’s a great time to choose a new color and fabric that may not have been available before, as well as create clean new seals to keep out moisture. Any convertible buyer will be very concerned with the convertible top’s age and quality. The fresh fabric and clean smell will reassure them they’re making a sound decision.

Your Car Needs an Upgrade

Installing a new convertible top is great way to breathe new life into your car. Once installed, a new convertible top may look so good that it renders your car virtually unrecognizable. Not only are you improving the look and value of your convertible, but a new reinforced convertible top will reduce wind noise and trap heat more efficiently than an old factory top. This makes for a more enjoyable ride for all times of year.

Regular cleaning and maintenance will help increase the longevity of your convertible top, but once it has been compromised, it will quickly begin to affect other areas of your car. Replacing the convertible top before these issues arise will ensure you save time and money on the total expenses of maintaining your convertible.

Tell us your favorite tips for keeping your convertible top looking its best. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Your First Convertible: What to Know

So, you just bought your first convertible. Congratulations are in order! You’re now a part of an elite club of happy car enthusiasts who truly understand how to enjoy the driving experience. Every trip now becomes a celebration and an opportunity to relax and have fun while performing everyday tasks. However, owning your first convertible comes with a bit of a learning curve, so we’ve put together a few tips to help make the most of your new dream car.   

Protect Your Skin

Driving a convertible is a completely different experience from driving a conventional car, truck or SUV. Exposure to sunlight for extended periods of time can cause sunburns and other skin problems. If you’re planning on driving on a sunny day, and we hope that you do, make sure to use sunscreen on your face, ears, neck, hands, and arms. Wearing long-sleeve shirts, gloves, and a hat will further protect from sunlight and exposure to wind, as well.

Keep Your Eyes Peeled

Now that you’re officially driving your new convertible, you’ll need to keep a sharp lookout when driving with the top down. Splashing puddles and dusty roads can damage the interior of your car and large trucks can startle you if you’re not prepared. Wind noise will decrease your ability to hear properly, which makes visual acuity especially important. Securing any loose papers or objects will ensure they do not distract you or obstruct your view when driving. Parking is critically important for convertible owners. Parking under trees, especially with the top down, is strictly forbidden.   

Lock it Up

If you’re not in the habit of locking your car, get used to doing it! When you aren’t driving your convertible, it’s a good idea to put the top up, roll up the windows, and lock the doors. You should also make sure valuables are not visible from outside the car. Some convertible soft tops can be somewhat easy to cut through and you don’t want to give anyone an incentive to break in. However, locking your convertible is also about preventing wild animals from climbing into your car for warmth and birds from ruining your interior from above.  

Take the Scenic Route

With your new convertible, life just got a lot better. Take the time to soak up that fact by learning the scenic routes for your daily drives. Convertibles want to be driven on the open road and there’s always time to find a new way home. Designated scenic routes provide the most breathtaking views of your area and the roads are usually well maintained.

You’re Now Everyone’s Chauffeur

Now that you have a fun new convertible, be prepared for everyone to want you to drive and for them to fight for “shotgun.” Riding in a convertible is the next best thing to driving one and your friends will all want to partake. This may cause you to have to forcibly choose the friends you’re willing to escort around, but you’ll surely get to pick your favorites.  

These are just a few tips we feel will help anyone make the most of the convertible lifestyle. What are your most helpful tips for new convertible owners to enjoy their convertibles? Share your thoughts in the comments below!