How to Protect a Convertible

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posted on 14 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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As a convertible owner, you relish the time spent driving with the top down. You may even brave the road on those cooler days, or live in a climate that has hard winters that may eventually put wear on your convertible top. Whether it's hot or cold outside, it's important to protect your convertible from the elements, and there are several ways to achieve this. Begin with proper maintenance, which is the key to keeping your car in good condition, regardless of whether your top is constructed of cloth or vinyl.

Steps

Cleaning Convertible Tops

Wash your convertible regularly. It is recommended that you clean your convertible top at least once every 4 weeks to keep dirt from sinking into the fabric or vinyl.

Wet the top of the convertible with a hose. Use a gentle car shampoo or one made specifically for convertible tops, which can be found in any automotive or home improvement store. Apply the cleaner with a sponge as you would to the rest of your vehicle.

Allow the cleaner to sit for 15 minutes for stubborn dirt or stains.

Scrub the top gently with a bristled brush

Rinse thoroughly with water..

Protecting Cloth Tops

Begin with a top that is dry and free of dirt and debris.

Apply a fabric convertible-top protectant. Spray the product directly onto the vehicle from a distance of approximately 16-18 inches.

Allow the top to dry completely.

Dry thoroughly with a clean, microfiber towel.

Protecting Vinyl Tops

Ensure your vinyl top is clean and dry.

Using sweeping motions, spray a vinyl convertible-top protectant at a distance of 8-12 inches from the top, or spray the product onto a clean, microfiber cloth and wipe the convertible top.