Some drivers in northern climates reject convertible cars because they can’t be used during the winter. ... But even today’s soft-top convertibles include a lot of weatherproofing. In short, living in a cold climate is no longer a good excuse not to buy the convertible you’ve always wanted.
Do soft tops get cold in winter?
You’ll do fine with the soft top. Many of us run soft tops through the winter with no issues . They’re well insulated and durable enough to hold some snow, but I would advise brushing off large amounts. Don’t touch the windows either, especially not with a snow scraper!
Do soft tops get cold?
After all, a soft-top won’t be as much insulation as a hardtop, and it will also be more susceptible to tears and leaks, allowing cold air to pour into the vehicle.
Can soft tops withstand snow?
Tip 2: If you don’t have any garage space and are forced to leave your convertible out in the snow, clean off the top before driving. While that’s the considerate thing to do, the majority of soft tops aren’t rated to hold a massive amount of weight and a large amount of snow can damage the soft top’s metal frame.
How do you protect a soft top convertible in the winter?
AutoTopsDirect recommends conditioning your convertible’s roof toward the end of fall. This will help it repel rain, snow, and slush. To do this, you’ll need a protectant and a soft brush . Use the brush to wipe off any dirt and debris, then apply a layer of protectant to help seal the soft top from winter damp.
Is it OK to leave a convertible outside?
The most important part of storing a convertible is to put the top up. ... Although a garage is ideal, convertibles can also be stored outside . In this case, you need to really consider a water-resistant yet breathable cover, one that is thicker for cars parked outside and a proper, snug fit.
Can you drive convertible in rain?
Whether you drive a hard-top or soft-top convertible, heavy rain and snow can still make you susceptible to leaks .
Are soft top cars bad?
Disadvantages. A key disadvantage of a soft-top is the roof can get easily damaged by someone with bad intentions . Even though the convertible fabric is highly durable, if someone were to puncture it with a sharp object, they could cause significant damage and gain access to any valuables stored inside your vehicle.
How long do soft top convertibles last?
- A properly maintained convertible top lasts an average of 5-7 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.
Can you drive a soft top convertible through a carwash?
Make it Secure: Only convertibles in good condition should be taken to a car wash . ... Avoid Direct Spray/Chemicals: Because canvas covers and other soft tops aren’t designed to withstand the same barrage of cleaning that regular cars do, you should take care of the top separately from the bottom.
How do you get ice off a soft top?
Don’t hack and chip away at ice or heavy snow, and be sure to use a soft brush or your hand wrapped in a mitt . Do not use a hard-bristled brush or ice scraper. Let you car warm up or park in a warm garage ahead of time to use temperature, not force, to loosen snow and ice.
Can you drive a soft top convertible in winter?
An old soft top with holes or tears will need to be repaired unless you enjoy the snow and cold air in your car . You should also be careful when using a soft top. Cold weather causes the vinyl or fabric to shrink a bit, so if you try to put the top up before letting it defrost, then it will rip.
How waterproof are soft tops?
Soft top convertibles are waterproof by design , but do require continuous care to protect their waterproof layer. If not maintained correctly, they will gradually lose their ability to resist water. Soft tops can be made from a variety of textiles, all of which are designed to prevent water from entering the vehicle.
What happens if you leave a convertible open in the rain?
If you left your convertible top open long enough to really get hammered by rain — or if the storm was especially fierce — there’s a strong possibility that you’re dealing with an inch or so of standing water on the floor of your car.
