Best way to clean and protect a cabriolet top

[JSPC43]

Just about to enter the world of cabriolet driving (in November, I know!!!!) and am looking for advice on best way to clean and protect a soft top. Any suggestions/guidance greatfully received.

[Baldchap]

Use this.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Autoglym-AG-255003-Conver...

[Wills2]

A timely thread as I've just bought a 2016 e-class cab, I've bought the Autoglym kit as I like that you can apply the sealant whilst the hood is damp, many need it to be bone dry and that's not really happening in the UK right now.

The hood was in good condition no mould, I gave it a simple wash last week but today I'll clean it properly and then apply the protector/sealant, do not use a jet wash at close quarters, use a garden hose trigger instead would be my only advice.

[CrouchingWayne]

Baldchap said:

Use this.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Autoglym-AG-255003-Conver...

This kit worked well for me also

[Old Merc]

I’ve owned a Mercedes 1997 SL320 for 18 years, it still has the original hood. The cleaner mentioned is good stuff. Its also very important to regularly apply a protector https://www.amazon.co.uk/Car-Gods-54-Convertible-S...
I’ve used Car Gods for years.

[bitchstewie]

It's been a few years but Renovo was absolutely stunningly good even if it was a bit of a faff.

[jeremyh1]

bhstewie said:

It's been a few years but Renovo was absolutely stunningly good even if it was a bit of a faff.

Always had Saab convertibles and Ronovo is the best Keeping it in the garage helps or putting a cover over it when not using it is good

Dont drive it with the cover on!

[Alex_225]

I use Protex Canvas Cleaner on the roof of my Saab, needs 24 hours to dry after a clean either way and then apply Fabsil Gold.

You have to apply the Fabsil generously and it should bead like waxed paintwork for at least 6 months before it dies down. But even when the beading goes, it still works. I'd recommend applying every 8 months or so. You'll notice it darkens the colour of the roof but I find looks newer for it.



Same as you OP, I bought my first convertible with soft top in November albeit two years ago. I use the car all year round and it's absolutely fine.

[Huzzah]

I vac and brush the hood then use a couple of coats of Renevo when it's warm and dry. Unless undercover I probably wouldn't bother now until the spring.

I've some Fabsil gold waiting for next years application.

[JSPC43]

Thanks everyone, really appreciate your comments.

[Belle427]

Renovo, Fabsil gold and the Autoglym kit are all good.

[Alex Z]

My Mini has been cleaned and protected with the autoglym one, but obviously not enough as it’s got a little bit of weathering. Will have a look at some of the other suggestions too.

[yakka]

My hood was covered in some small white hairy seeds from a tree this year. Almost impossible to get rid of until I remembered I had some adhesive carpet protector film left over. Unrolled it and stuck it onto the roof. 10 minutes work and all the pesky seeds were gone, very chuffed.

[Wills2]

Couldn't do it yesterday as some chump decided that burning his garden refuse rather than a trip to tip was easier meaning it rained ash all day, this weekend looks nice enough to do it though.

[loskie]

on my mx5 when I had one I just used warm water, a drop of Persil liquid and a brush. Then re proofed with Renovo. It worked a treat.

[yakka]

My hood was covered in some small white hairy seeds from a tree this year. Almost impossible to get rid of until I remembered I had some adhesive carpet protector film left over. Unrolled it and stuck it onto the roof. 10 minutes work and all the pesky seeds were gone, very chuffed.