Why replace your convertible top?
Water leaks that soak seats, carpets or electronics.
Torn or delaminated fabric that makes the car noisy or cold.
Faded or brittle material that compromises appearance and value.
Non-functioning seals or windows that let wind and road noise in.
A full replacement is usually the most durable fix — it addresses seals, windows, and the fabric or vinyl itself, not just the symptoms. OEM+ Auto Tops manufactures exact-fit replacement tops for many luxury and mainstream convertibles, making factory-like replacements possible.
Convertible top materials: pros and cons
Canvas (cloth)
Upscale, textured look.
Better sound insulation and longevity when maintained.
Slightly higher cost than vinyl in most cases.
Vinyl
More affordable up-front.
Smooth finish that repels water well and is lower maintenance.
Can look less premium and may age differently (fading/creasing).
Choosing the same type as the original top usually keeps fit and weathering behavior predictable. If you want a material upgrade, make sure the replacement top’s attachment points and sealing systems are compatible.
Typical cost and timeline (real-world ranges)
Costs vary by car make, whether you choose OEM-level or aftermarket, and whether install is DIY or professional. Use these as guide ranges:
| Item | Typical cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket material-only top (common models) | $200 – $900. |
| OEM-quality replacement top (luxury / exact-fit) | $1,000 – $4,000+ depending on model. |
| Professional installation (labor) | $300 – $2,500 (complex frames, headliners, wiring add cost). |
| Full job (OEM top + professional install, luxury cars) | $2,000 – $6,000+ (examples in brand-owner forums confirm high-end totals). |
Timeline: a professional shop typically completes a replacement in 1–3 days for most cars; complex jobs or sourcing rare materials can take longer.
Step-by-step: what a professional replacement looks like
Inspection estimate — confirm frame integrity, headliner condition, and window type.
Remove interior trim — access fasteners and seals without damaging panels.
Remove the old top — carefully detach from windshield header, side channels and rear frame.
Prep the frame — clean, repair or replace seals, cables, and any rusted hardware.
Fit the new top — align and tension the top, install new windows (if included) and re-seal.
Reinstall trim test — operate the mechanism through all cycles, check for leaks and noise.
Many shops keep spare clips and fasteners on hand because interior trim pieces often break during removal. If you prefer a DIY route, follow a model-specific guide step-by-step and budget more time — removing and refastening interior trim is fiddly and easy to damage.
Real-world example: a Porsche convertible refresh
A specialist shop detailed a Porsche convertible top replacement where the process included carefully removing the factory top, saving and replacing trim clips, and sourcing an exact-fit replacement to preserve the car’s original fit and finish. The key takeaways: patience during disassembly, sourcing a high-quality replacement, and replacing clips and weatherstrips to avoid rattles and leaks after the job. That attention to detail keeps older convertibles feeling new.
How to choose a replacement and an installer
Choosing the top
Fit matters most. An exact-fit replacement reduces gaps and stress on mounting points.
Material selection. Match original unless you have good reason and compatible hardware.
Window type. Glass windows are pricier but last longer and resist clouding; plastic windows are cheaper but scratch and haze over time.
Choosing the installer
Ask for:
Installed-before examples of your exact make/model.
A written warranty on workmanship and materials.
Before/after photos and contactable references.
OEM+ Auto Tops lists local certified installers and offers in-house installation options for many models — that’s handy if you want an OEM-level replacement with local support.
Quick checklist before you book a replacement
Confirm whether the top being quoted is OEM-fit or generic aftermarket.
Ask if seals, headliner and window are included or extra.
Request a timeline and a test-for-leaks procedure after installation.
Get warranty details in writing (material + labor).
Compare two to three shop quotes — don’t pick by price alone.
Case study: OEM+ Auto Tops Inc. — what they bring to the table
OEM+ Auto Tops manufactures replacement convertible tops designed to match factory specifications for many makes — from mainstream brands to high-end European convertibles. Their catalog includes tops for Mercedes, BMW, Porsche and other marques, and they emphasize close-to-factory fit and U.S. manufacturing. If you’re after a high-fidelity replacement that preserves factory fit, OEM+ Auto Tops is built around that approach. If you want to explore their offerings or find a certified installer, see OEM+ Auto Tops’ product pages and installer locator.
Final verdict: when to replace vs. repair
Replace when:
Large tears, multiple leaks, or delamination are present.
Windows are badly clouded or cracked.
The frame, seals, or headliner have significant wear.
Repair (short-term) when:
Small localized seam failures or punctures exist and the rest of the system is solid.
For long-term value and reliability, a proper convertible top replacement — especially using an OEM-quality replacement and professional install — is usually the best investment. You’ll preserve the car’s condition, cut down on noise and leaks, and avoid repeated patchwork down the road.
If you want, I can:
Help you draft an email to a local installer asking the right questions, or
Compare two replacement quotes (paste them here) and point out what’s missing.
Prefer to look at exact-fit tops right away? Visit OEM+ Auto Tops Inc. to browse their catalog and locate an installer: https://oemplusautotops.com/.
