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      05-06-2008, 11:24 AM   #1
RickR
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Convertible top care?

My 128i is my first convertible. I'm not sure how to care for the top or what routine maintenance might be required. Any suggestions would be most welcome.
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      05-06-2008, 02:56 PM   #2
mrgoochio
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I'm actually not familiar with the 1er top, is it vinyl or fabric? First determine that because the products you use may vary between each.

To wash the top, you should be able to use any gentle type of car wash solution. You could either use a microfiber towel or a gentle bristled brush to lightly scrub the top. You don't need any 'gloss enhancing' car soap for your top as you might like to use for your paint.

For dirty spots that won't come out with regular cleaning, you could use a designated top cleaner such as 303's convertible top cleaner (which can be used on vinyl or fabric). Raggtopp is another brand that makes products for vinyl/fabric tops. Make sure if you use a brush on your top, that its a soft bristled brush appropriate for automotive use. OXO makes good brushes.

Now that you washed and then cleaned your top, you need to protect it. You'll need a vinyl or fabric protector and its function is pretty similar to what wax would do for the paint. You want to maintain your top so you don't develop pre-mature fading or cracking. Whether the top is vinyl or fabric, the routine is generally the same but some products are specific for each finish. Make sure you use the correct stuff as per manufacturer's labels.

You should do some shopping around for some detailing products, it'll save you in the long run. See my "Aresenal" thread :thumbup:
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      05-06-2008, 03:00 PM   #3
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Thanks. The top is fabric.
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      05-08-2008, 04:48 PM   #4
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BMW has a ragtop cleaner in their parts dept. I used it on my Z4 and it works very well and keeps it looking new.

Spray some on when the top is wet during a car wash, go over it with a sponge to thicken it up. Let it sit there a bit, wash it off and dry it with a microfiber towel or chamois or something. I would dry it by starting in the middle, pressing down and pulling towards me instead of rubbing.
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      05-08-2008, 04:50 PM   #5
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Thanks, mzaiderman. How often should I clean the top - every time I wash?
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      05-08-2008, 05:02 PM   #6
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No that would wear it out. I did it twice or thrice a year.
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      05-14-2008, 02:18 AM   #7
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Can the 128/135 convertibles go through an auto car wash?
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      05-14-2008, 09:48 PM   #8
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+1 for 303 Convertible Top Cleaner...this is the only protectant that is recommenced for and by Sunbrella who make the fabric for the tops...a must to use....
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