Tips To Keep Your Vinyl Top In Good Shape
Vinyl convertible tops are durable, but they aren't immune to aging. Major concerns include color fading, dulling of the surface, and cracking. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent these problems and prolong the life of the top. The following tips can help.
Tip #1: Use the right cleaner
There are detergents made especially for cleaning cars. Although you can find specialty products just for vinyl tops, any car detergent that doesn't contain wax or agents to improve the gloss of the car work equally as well – and you can use them on your whole car. If the vinyl is exceptionally dirty, use a liquid dish detergent that is made to cut through grease. This will cut right through the road grime but it won't damage the vinyl.
Tip #2: Avoid abrasives
Abrasive cleansers and scrubbers dull and damage the vinyl top. This includes stiff brushes and sponges with abrasive surfaces. Instead, invest in a convertible top brush. These have soft, feathery bristles that allow you to gently scrub away any dirt without causing damage. If you don't have access to this brush, then a large, soft sponge can be used instead.
Tip #3: Give a full rinse
Soap residue is a common cause of dull-looking or faded vinyl. You can prevent this simply by rinsing thoroughly. If you live in an area with hard water, dry the top by hand with a towel instead of allowing it to air dry. This way there won't be hard water spots on the vinyl, which can contribute to the dull appearance.
Tip #4: Apply a protectant
A protectant made especially for vinyl tops serves many purposes. It brightens the surface so it regains its faded gloss. This in turn leads to a less-faded appearance. Even more important, these protectants helps prevent cracking and other damage. They are designed to protect against weathering and UV damage, which are the main causes of cracking. The frequency of application is listed on the container, but generally you will want to reapply it after every car wash.
Tip #5: Fix damage promptly
Excessive cracking means that you must have the top replaced. This is why it's important to address any small cracks as soon as they appear. They can often be repaired with a vinyl top repair epoxy. They must be fixed before the crack pierces the top or begins to widen. While there are DIY options, a professional repair is more likely to withstand the test of time.
For more help, contact an auto repair shop such as Fred's Auto Interiors.