5 Convertible Top Maintenance Tips for this Summer
Summer is well under way and the tops are coming off, of convertibles that is. If you're the proud owner of a drop top now is the time to provide special care to the material and mechanics of the convertible top to ensure it remains in good condition all season long and beyond. Convertible cars, both soft and hardtop, require a variety of maintenance owners of solid top cars and SUV’s never have to think about. For best results it is smart to work with an expert in convertible top maintenance if care or repairs are needed. These five convertible top maintenance tips will keep you rolling with the top down all summer long.
Lubrication & Hydraulics
Power convertible tops have multiple hinge points and use hydraulics to operate. Proper lubrication of hinges, cables and joints is needed to prevent excessive friction that can damage the components. Additionally, it may also be necessary to fill your vehicle's convertible top reservoir with specially designed hydraulic fluid. However, if the convertible top reservoir is low, it's likely there is a leak somewhere.
Avoid High Pressure Car Washes
It's always nice to have a clean car, but when it comes to convertibles it's important to pay attention to the type of car wash you're pulling into. A high pressure car wash can cause water to break the weatherstripping, resulting in damage to the convertible top itself, as well as mechanical components that run it, such as switches and lift cylinders. Hand washing a convertible top using approved materials is nearly always best. Remember, it is important to wash the top regularly to prevent dirt and grime from becoming ingrained in the fabric.
Sun Protection
After giving your soft top a nice bath you need to provide it with sun protection. Cloth and vinyl tops are subject to harsh UV rays and chemical pollutants in the air that can cause them to fade, crack and otherwise become damaged. Using proper sun protection products will keep your top looking its very best.
Avoid Operating Fabric Tops that are Wet
To prevent mold and mildew growth on the top and in the storage compartment it's best to only put fabric convertible tops down when it is dry. A moist top that is folded into its compartment won't allow moisture to evaporate into the air, instead keeping it trapped. The humid air that is created in the storage chamber is the perfect environment for unwanted organic growth.
Draining the Battery
Be wary of operating the convertible top with the engine off, as doing so could drain the battery. Some vehicles have prevention measures installed that prevent the top from going up or down when the vehicle isn't running, but if yours doesn't, just remember putting it up or down takes a lot of electrical power and a dead battery means you won't be able to start your car to drive with the top down, or up, for that matter.
Cruising with the top down is a summer favorite for all convertible owners, but without proper care the retracted season could come to an early close. If you're in need of convertible top repair in Cumming, GA, visit G2 Automotive. Our expert technicians do it all for drop tops, including replacing convertible tops, repairing convertible top motors, rebuilding cylinders, replacing headliners and so much more. To learn more about our services or to request German convertible top repair in Cumming don't hesitate to give us a call at (678) 771-6434.