Question for Convertible Owners

[TheBry]

Have any of you used the BMW Waterproofing Fluid? The "Caring for your Vehicle" manual says it should be applied to the convertible top after every 3-5 washes. I've already washed the car more than five times and am wondering if this is really necessary.

 

[MyHarley]

Actually, I dont have the top washed. The place that does my car every week washes the bottom only, then they brush the top. If you notice when they wash the top, you can never get all the soap out of the fabric and white specs brush off continually after its dry, so I decided early on not to wash the top. Just my opinion tho...

 

[Boatman]

I use Raggtopp protectant on my top. They also make a cleaner that you use once a year. Raggtopp is endorsed by the maker of the canvas top. When I wash my car, I use only water on my top. Raggtopp is usually only available on line.

 

[JUS]

I use only water on my top than i used a hat brush to clean(brush lightly) while the top is wet following the canvas pattern than i vacuum dry the top following the canvas pattern. original canvas still looks great. I wash top once a month if needed just brush and vacuum in between.

JUS-N-5

 

[Kirby]

I wash the car only by hand, and don't wash the top. I just hose it down with a strong spray of water. I plan on treating the top once a year. In fact, it's just been a year in April so I better get on that!

 

[deutsch100]

Hey Bry! Feels good to be back on the board...just got back from the fatherland and BMW's womb...Munich.

Impregnating (imprägnieren or wasserdicht machen auf Deutsch our canvas tops need to be done only ONCE a year. In between that you need to only hose the top down with a firm stream of water, and use a firm, but not damaging brush to clean any debris if needed.

I wash my car every week, and usually about every 2-3 weeks I hose the top down. I actually use a lint roller on my top every week. It removes dust and small particles really well...you just look like an anal super-freak doing it.

When it is time to impregnate the top, I use this spray stuff made for boats and patio umbrellas...it works great. I used it on my SL500 for 4 years,,,,made the top so waterproof and brand new looking. Take care man!!!

 

[TheBry]

Thanks for the advice everyone... and welcome back, deutsch100 ;-)

I think I'm going to continue using my local car wash -- they do wash the car by hand, however, they also soap and wash the top. I've not noticed any flecks of soap, and it usually looks nice and clean when they're finished. I'll just be sure to buy some sort of sealant -- probably the BMW stuff -- since it looks like everyone has given that treatment the thumbs-up.

Thanks again.

Bry