How long should convertible top last

A soft convertible top has a shorter lifespan than a hard convertible top. Although soft convertible top fabrics are durable they are susceptible to punctures from sharp objects.

In addition, outside elements like the weather can reduce the integrity of the material. The average lifespan of a convertible top is about five to seven years when properly maintained. A worn or damaged convertible sticks out like a sore thumb. Unfortunately, it can bring down the overall aesthetics of your vehicle even if the body of your car is in great condition. One hole often leads to several additional holes over time. Most convertible top manufacturers have a three to six-year warranty on their fabrics.

However constant exposure to harsh weather conditions like snow, rain, hail, and even extreme heat can cause a convertible top to wear faster than normal. Is your convertible top sagging? A sagging top is a sign of aging fabric, vinyl, or an improperly installed frame. In situations like this, you may need to have the top inspected by an automotive upholstery trim shop to determine if the frame on your convertible top or if the fabric needs to be replaced.

If water is getting inside of your car when it rains or snows there may be a leak somewhere within the convertible top. The problem may also lie in the seams and seal gaps that help hold the convertible top. Convertibles tend to be noisier than a traditional vehicle. But when you start to hear more noise than usual from the road this is a big sign that the top has aged and needs to be repaired or replaced by a professional. In some instances, you may be able to have your convertible top repaired instead of replaced.

Most experts will recommend a convertible top replacement for tears that are 12 inches or longer. Smaller tears can be patched. Small lacerations should be repaired by an expert for a seamless look. Repairing a torn or damaged convertible top is a lot harder than it seems. Depending on the extent of the damage it may be wise to have the top replaced instead. One way you can save money on a convertible top replacement is to consider using alternative materials.

Soft convertible tops are made from a variety of materials that vary in thickness, soundproofing properties, and other important factors.

Most convertible tops are produced from either vinyl or cloth. Vinyl is one of the oldest fabrics ever used on convertible tops and they are typically used to mimic the look of leather. Oftentimes the factory cloth installed on your vehicle is cheaper than some of the premium fabrics available on the market. Make sure you do your research on aftermarket options for your convertible top replacement. Opting for lower quality materials can cut your convertible top replacement costs by hundreds of dollars.

Dark Dog Customs can repair frame and motor issues, not all upholstery shops do. If your local convertible top specialist does not service frame or motor issues, visit a reputable mechanic. When water stops beading on your convertible top, the water and sun protection has worn away and it is time to have the top inspected by a convertible top repair shop.

Dark Dog Customs offers free convertible top inspections with a written report summary, click here to schedule an inspection. For more information and to view our current project photos, visit www. The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch? Register for a user account. Mike Berggren , Neighbor. Find out what's happening in Acworth with free, real-time updates from Patch.

Let's go! Never take a convertible through an automatic car wash! With proper cleaning and care, extra spray on protectants are not necessary. A properly maintained convertible top lasts an average of years. Never put a convertible top down when the temperature is below 60 degrees. Never leave a convertible top down over night.

Never store a convertible for extended periods of time with the top down. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. We apologize, but this video has failed to load. Try refreshing your browser, or tap here to see other videos from our team. First Look: Acura Integra prototype isn't surprising, but exciting. Can the Integra make Acura great again? Subaru unveils the Solterra, its first global all-electric vehicle.

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