convertible top

I'm planning to buy an F430 2006 convertible. Any costly problems with the top's action that I need to be worried about?

 

Some people never have any issues with their top some people do. The 360/430's top mechanism is much more reliable than the older 355's. The entire mechanism I believe made by a German company (Contractor who made the Mercedes top?). But overall it still have it's own little issues here and there. Typical problem associated with it are the microswitch out of adjustment which can leave you stuck either topless or hanging in the middle. The fluid level will also need to be check regularly, a low fluid level can cause malfunction. Also it take a pretty big drain on the battery when it is operated with the engine off. Also the top needs to be operated when the car is parked on a flat level surface.

Other issues is the wear on the plastic window, sometime if it is not folded corrected, or if it comes in contact with the middle latch can result in cosmetic damage which is also costly to replace. It also oxidizes easily which will require you to use special cleaners to clean.

The top repair from the dealer can be extremely expensive, I have heard of bills in the range of $5000. Other specialty upholstery shops may be cheaper.

But in all the car is beautiful with the top down very little wind noise. Other then getting a tan on your bald spot it is a very useful convertible.

 

My top has been good; on occasion it will do something odd like not close all the way, hang in the middle, etc. What I do is try to cycle it a full time (down/up/down or reverse). If it is really stubborn I turn the car off and back on and it will fix.

I just try to not get frustrated and give it the time to fix rather then trying to force the issue.

 

+1
Had it checked at dealer all fine . Occasionally it has a mind of its own.

 

+1

I had major issues with mine... it broke all over the place and was stuck. Fortunately, I am still under warranty and it was fixed without issue...

I wouldn't worry too much about it... but don't ever try to force it by hand, and be sure to always open or close on a level surface.

 

Thanks guys for the comments on the convertible top. I've got an insurance quote of around 3200 a year from Hagerty's. Any cheaper one that you know of?

 

3200!!!!?!??!? Holy crap! I'm 28 years old and pay 110.00 per month!!! State farm

 

I pay $900 a year for an '04 360 Spider. State Farm.

 

$1200 for 03 360 spider with AAA