LC Model (2018-present)

Convertible top care?

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Old 02-19-24, 11:34 AM
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TGIF
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Default Convertible top care?

Just got my 2021 convertible, and was wondering if there is anything we need to do for the exterior to keep it clean and hold up for the long run.
Old 02-19-24, 05:43 PM
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microsup
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I use 303 cleaner and protector for convertible soft top. Don’t use power washer on your soft top. Also as user guide recommends I keep my top closed when parked to avoid rincless . For day to day between washes I use lint roller to quickly remove any dust.
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Old 02-20-24, 04:21 AM
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BillUK
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Not sure what car soft tops are made of, but I do know that some boat owners spray patio cleaner on their fabric covers/tops to stop green algae/moss growing over winter.
Old 02-20-24, 07:25 PM
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microsup
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Patio cleaner could be extreme , we need to keep our soft top flexible enough to operate properly.

I have a question to convertibles owners is it safe to use steamer to smooth some wrinkles? I am afraid that it can make some spots or melt glue layer between woven layers. What do you guys think? Is it worth it or just wait till hot summer days and wash the top and keep it in a sun to dry and shrink to remove wrinkles.
Old 02-20-24, 10:47 PM
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Dukeaudio
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Originally Posted by microsup
Patio cleaner could be extreme , we need to keep our soft top flexible enough to operate properly.

I have a question to convertibles owners is it safe to use steamer to smooth some wrinkles? I am afraid that it can make some spots or melt glue layer between woven layers. What do you guys think? Is it worth it or just wait till hot summer days and wash the top and keep it in a sun to dry and shrink to remove wrinkles.
I too thought of using my steamer to get some wrinkles out but as much as my top is down, might be futile. I might try misting the wrinkles with di/distilled water to get it slightly damp, then leaving in the sun a while.
Old 02-22-24, 09:31 AM
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dan25man
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FYI this is the 303 converitble top cleaner @microsup mentioned above: https://www.goldeagle.com/product/30...e-top-cleaner/

When I had my 2016 MX-5 I used this product per the instructions and kept the top very clean and sharp. I kept the car outside for the 4 years and 55,000 miles I had on it. Put the top down all the time. Never had issues with the top, or cleaning it. Also, don't put your car thru an automatic car wash. The waxes/polish compound isn't supposed to get onto the fabric. At least that's what I've been told.
Old 02-22-24, 09:41 AM
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tofuprod
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As stated, 303 cleaner for tops do wonders, particularly the maritime version.

Also for the rubber seals (if any, I don't have a vert) I highly recommend Honda shintetsu grease, a little goes a long way.
Old 02-22-24, 11:04 AM
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355F1
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+1 on the 303.

Don’t forget the brush, too.

This is all you need:
Amazon Amazon

​​​​​​
Amazon Amazon

Last edited by 355F1; 02-22-24 at 12:02 PM.
Old 02-22-24, 12:33 PM
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Dukeaudio
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Originally Posted by 355F1
+1 on the 303.

Don’t forget the brush, too.

This is all you need:
https://www.amazon.com/303-30520-Con...000A8JNF0?th=1

​​​​​​https://www.amazon.com/303-Fabric-Co...BoCWpYQAvD_BwE
Appreciate the links. The protectant appears intended for 'vinyl tops', would a fabric protectant be more appropriate or are you finding this item works just as well?
Old 02-22-24, 03:16 PM
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355F1
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Originally Posted by Dukeaudio
Appreciate the links. The protectant appears intended for 'vinyl tops', would a fabric protectant be more appropriate or are you finding this item works just as well?
Not sure where you are seeing vinyl tops? It clearly says it is for convertible fabric tops.
Old 02-22-24, 03:38 PM
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Dukeaudio
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Originally Posted by 355F1
Not sure where you are seeing vinyl tops? It clearly says it is for convertible fabric tops.
Wow, you're right. Not sure how i messed that up...fat fingers to blame. Apologies, and thx again. Currently have a ceramic coat applied. Once i see performance fade i'll give this a shot.👍🏽
Old 02-22-24, 09:32 PM
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Originally Posted by Dukeaudio
Wow, you're right. Not sure how i messed that up...fat fingers to blame. Apologies, and thx again. Currently have a ceramic coat applied. Once i see performance fade i'll give this a shot.👍🏽
You have a ceramic coat on your convertible top???? That doesn't make sense as ceramic needs something hard to bond with.

You should apply 303 protectant to your fabric top immediately upon delivery if you're gonna be driving/storing your car in the elements.
Old 02-22-24, 10:22 PM
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Dukeaudio
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Originally Posted by 355F1
You have a ceramic coat on your convertible top???? That doesn't make sense as ceramic needs something hard to bond with.

You should apply 303 protectant to your fabric top immediately upon delivery if you're gonna be driving/storing your car in the elements.
Thats pretty much what i told my installer. He schooled me on Ceramic Pro's products for leather and textiles. Had interior and top done. So far, so good. As for 303, I've been using their products for years, just never the fabric protectant but sure it'll be excellent.

Last edited by Dukeaudio; 02-22-24 at 10:26 PM.
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