Driving a convertible car can be a lot of fun. When the sun is shining, there are few things more pleasurable than putting the roof down and going for a drive in glorious sunshine. Like any other part of your car, however, your convertible’s roof may not last as long as it could if you do not take appropriate care of it. Follow these simple tips from BMW of Freehold to ensure that you get the most from your convertible’s roof.
Learn about your car. It’s important that you know what your convertible’s top is made of. If it’s a hard top, then it’s probably not such an issue, but the materials used for soft tops can vary. A simple test is to drop a small amount of water on the roof. Fabric convertible tops absorb water. Water smears on vinyl. Understanding this can help you choose the right cleaning products.
Choose the right cleaning products. When it comes to cleaning your convertible top, you may need to invest in different products. The sort of thing you use on the rest of your car may not be suitable for the roof. It is always worth checking the owner’s manual for any specific instructions. Alternatively, talk to the service department at our dealership if you are unsure.
Clean properly and regularly. It is worth taking the time to clean your convertible top properly. Don’t hurry the job or you won’t get the best results. Avoid cleaning soft tops in direct sunlight and make sure that the top is not too hot when you want to wash it. Sunlight can damage the top when certain products are applied. Use cleaners according to the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that the roof is properly dry before you let it down. This will prevent further damage from dampness.
Park your car safely. Your soft top may be vulnerable to certain things, particularly bird poop and the sap or deposits from trees. Avoid parking your convertible beneath trees or where there is no shelter from birds. If you do happen to get bird poop or other mess on the roof, ensure that you clean it off as soon as possible. Bird poop and other deposits contain harmful chemicals that can permanently damage your car’s roof.
If this all sounds like a lot of effort, then consider paying somebody to clean and detail your convertible for you. For more information about caring for your convertible top, contact us at BMW of Freehold today.
