Of course, feeling the rain fall on your head as you drive is the first sign that you may need convertible top repair in Portland, OR. But, there are some ways to tell if your convertible top needs help before it gets to that point. If you work to keep your convertible top in good shape you may save yourself the expense of a convertible top replacement down the line. First, make a point to do a regular visible check of the interior and exterior of your convertible’s top. Look for the following warning signs.
Rust can spread fast and immobilize your convertible top. Look for areas of exposed metal with rust on it. If your convertible top is completely covered in upholstery, then you might still see rust discoloring the material. Even the slightest hint of a rust spot should be handled immediately to keep it from spreading.
Mold and mildew can sometimes be confused with a dirty spot in the upholstery of your convertible top. Having the upholstery cleaned on a regular basis will help alleviate that confusion. It can also help deter mold from taking hold. Like rust, mold and mildew can spread quickly and cause damage to your convertible top. If you see or are in question of a spot on your upholstery, have it checked out.
If your convertible top is having trouble going up or down, even if it does successfully open and close, have it checked. This might mean choppy movement rather than a smooth open and close, or the motor might sound unusually stressed. The cause may be something simple, like dirt and grim getting in the way, but it could also be faltering parts. If part of the mechanical mechanism is having problems, it could worsen until you are stuck with a top that won’t move. If it gets stuck open, or worse mid-way, that can cause all kinds of problems. Bring it in for convertible top repair before it gets to that point.
If you have questions about the condition of your convertible top in Portland, OR give us a call at Bright Auto Upholstery.