As summer finally appears to be setting in, convertible owners across the country are dusting off their soft (or hard) tops to feel the wind in their hair. There are plenty of benefits of owning a convertible, but to make the most of it, it is important that you maintain your hood and keep it clean. We describe how.
Vinyl Tops
If your convertible has a vinyl top, wash it using car soap, as you do the rest of the body work. Take care to follow the instructions on your detergent, and make sure you clean your car out of direct sunlight, to prevent bleaching and stop soap from drying to the vinyl. If you prefer, you can use specific vinyl cleaner, which will help you to get rid of stubborn stains, such as bird droppings – choose one that also prevents mildew for added protection. If you do need to clean a stained area, make sure you clean the whole hood to prevent faded patches.
If you have trouble getting rid of stains, use a soft or medium toothbrush and gently rub in a circular motion. Never (ever) use a scouring pad or steel brush; this can scratch the hood and cause it to perish. If your convertible is more than seven years old, or if it is kept outside, in direct sunlight, apply a vinyl protectant every few months to prolong the hood’s lifespan.
Cloth Tops
Cloth tops are more delicate than vinyl, so need a little more tlc. If your convertible has a cloth top, it is important that you use special cleaner – don’t use normal car soap as this can dry out the cloth and damage its waterproofing. For stubborn stains, use a bristled brush and gently rub to wear away the marks – don’t use metal brushes, or scrub too hard. Always rinse well after washing, to prevent a build-up of soap.
If you have a cloth top, keep an eye on it to make sure that it is repelling water. Your cloth top should repel water even in the heaviest rain, so if you notice a leak or damp patch, get it checked out sooner rather than later to prevent serious damage. If you catch a leak early enough, a coat of water repellent should be sufficient to fix it. Once you start applying water repellent, reapply monthly to prevent leaks and mold.
If the leak persists, it could be your door or window seals. If you are in any doubt about the condition of your convertible, take your car to a local garage to get it checked out – catching a problem early on could prevent you from having to get the hood replaced.