The feeling of riding down the road with the top down is unlike any other. Hardtop convertible cars continue to be one of the most popular options for buyers. Drivers choose a hardtop over soft top models due to the safety features.

However, drivers need to be aware of the hard work it takes to operate and care for a hardtop convertible. Proper maintenance of this accessory will lengthen the life of the vehicle. Repairing a hardtop is expensive and needs to be fixed by a professional. If you upkeep the vehicle, you save both time and money.

Equipment Needed

• Sponge
• Cleaning products – soaps designed specifically for cars
• Car wax – hand or spray application
• Brushes (2) – scrub brush for tires and soft horsehair brush for the car exterior
• Microfiber towels
• Handheld vacuum

Prepping Your Hardtop

Park your vehicle in the shade and avoid direct sunlight as you begin washing your car. First, check for any loose grime or dirt. Wet and rinse the vehicle to spray everything off.

Exterior Roof and Body

Use two separate buckets as you begin cleaning. One should be utilized for the scrub brush and soap to use on the wheels. The second is for the rest of the car. Mix soap and water in both buckets, using a sponge for the vehicle’s exterior.

Wash the car as you normally would, separating the vehicle into sections. Start at the top and move down, spraying off each section with water after soaping it up. Save the wheels for last, scrubbing them with a brush and soap. Rinse them off with clean water.

For hardtop convertible cars, pay attention to the seals. Leaves and other debris collect in the cracks of the roof. If you don’t thoroughly clean out the seals, it can lead to deterioration.

Interior Cleaning

For the inside of the vehicle, remove any garbage from the floors. Wipe down any surfaces to eliminate dust and remove floor mats from the car. Vacuum the top of the vehicle, running the attachment along the ceiling and cracks. Make sure you hit all the nooks and crannies of the convertible top from the inside to eliminate dirt.

Finish vacuuming the remainder of the car, working your way down to the seats and floors. For an extra touch, use a damp microfiber towel to wipe down the seals of the hardtop.

After Care

Keep the hardtop up after you finish washing. If you put the top down too soon, the water collected on the roof will cling to the inside of the car. However, a quick way to dry your convertible is to drive around the block first.

The best way to refresh the appearance of your vehicle is to apply wax. Buffing the small scratches from your exterior paint restores the shiny, original finish. Use small, circular motions to apply the wax.

Protectants

Sunlight can cause things to fade over time. Use a protectant at least once a month on the seals surrounding the top. This helps lengthen the life and reduce damage.

Top Hardtop Convertible Cars

Mercedes Benz SLC

The most luxurious of hardtop convertible cars: Mercedes Benz SLC. The electric trunk divider makes the top lower with ease and offers two types of panoramic roofs: tinted see-through panels or the electric variable tint called magic sky control. In addition, the newly-designed trunk divider is standard with this model and separates the cargo area. However, the best feature on this model is an Airscarf, which provides passengers with a neck warmer while the top is down.

Jeep Wrangler

The main draw to Jeep hardtop convertible models is the durability they provide in any weather situation.  With excellent insulation even in cold weather, it allows you to drive their vehicle during any time of the year.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

Hardtop convertible cars attract drivers to specific models. The Mazda MX-5 Miata has an option for hardtop design. The top stows in the vehicle but the rear pillars remain in place. This version is a popular model for car owners.

To truly give hardtop convertible cars top-notch care, consider a professional business. DetailXPerts, an eco-friendly mobile auto detailing company offers steam cleaning services. Our highly-trained technicians refresh your vehicle’s appearance for a pristine finish.