Convertible tops

Car buyers looking to engage in a little sun worshipping have plenty of options these days.  Convertibles are on a rise in popularity, with over 30 vehicles to choose from that offer a convertible option.  This rise in popularity is partially due to an improvement in materials, engineering and technology that go into a convertible vehicle.

Unwanted water leaks are the worst in any vehicle but in many a convertible, they’re somewhat common as the vehicle ages. Water can enter the cabin, the trunk, the foot well and a number of other areas.  Water in a vehicle can cause thousands of dollars in damage to the vehicle’s electrical system, interior components and can cause deadly mold and mildew to grow inside your vehicle.

Water is life – but you don’t want it inside of your convertible – so let’s take a look at a few tips to help fix and prevent convertible leaks. Use these tips on your brand-new convertible as it ages and be sure to carry them out if you’ve recently bought a second-hand drop-top as well. Most of the items below should be considered part of an annual or semi-annual convertible roof maintenance program.

Clear the Drains

The modern convertible has a complex water management system that was designed into the vehicle.  The water management system is comprised of drains, flaps and troughs that collect and channel rainwater to drain tubes. These drains allow the water to flow through the body of the vehicle, away from the cabin and onto the ground below.

Open your convertible roof partway, so all of the rubber seals and components of its built-in drainage system are exposed. Pour a little water around and see where it flows and drains. You will see the drain holes throughout the process. Once you find them, gently fish a piece of weed eater line through these holes to clear any trapped debris. If you’ve got an air compressor gently blast some compressed air into each one (NO more than 30 psi).

Further, remove any larger debris you see elsewhere, like leaves, dirt and insects. Keep your convertible’s water management system clear and it’ll repay you with a dry ride every time. Many convertible owners carry this task out as part of springtime maintenance.

Lube the Seals

A complex network of rubber seals is used between your convertible’s body panels, roof panels, doors and windows, to help block water from getting inside. Like humans, rubber seals can get dirty and dried out as they age and over time, the seals can crack, break apart and suffer damage. Check your owner’s manual: it specifies a certain rubber weather-seal lubricant, as well as a timeline for application. Acquire the lubricant at your dealer and apply it how and when directed. The lubricant will condition the seals and prolong their life fending off damage and cracking. Further, when seals are lubricated properly they slide easily over one another when in contact rather than pulling on, ripping or dislodging one another. Don’t remember when you last treated your seals? They’re probably thirsty for some lube.  LEAKPRO® recommends treating your weather-strips twice a year with a good quality silicone paste.

Roof Panel Adjustments

Over time your convertible will be subjected to lots of bumps, shaking, vibrations and other forms of shock as it’s driven around. This can cause convertible tops and roof panels and other components of the convertible to shift ever so slightly, increasing the possibility that water may enter the cabin. Even a slight shift in a panel, possibly so small that it’s not visible to the naked eye, may prevent a rubber seal from doing its job or open a small slit where water can enter. If you have an annoying roof leak that isn’t responding to our first two tips, consider having your local LEAKPRO® franchisee check and realign your change roof and associated components, which can help resolve the issue.

Trust the Professionals at LEAKPRO® to resolve all your water leak and convertible issues.