BMW and MINI Convertible Top and Sunroof Repair Specialists
Many automotive technicians cringe when they hear the word convertible top or sunroof problems. Some simply say it will be too expensive to repair or that the parts are not available, but this is often not the case. Here at Stokes and Renk we are your convertible top and sunroof repair specialists.
We have a wealth of experience and are able to quickly and accurately diagnose and repair your sunroof or convertible roof.
Using Genuine or OEM components, Stokes and Renk are able offer a solution tailored to your BMW or MINI to get you on the road, roof open (or closed!) as soon as possible.
Above are some images of the convertible roof hydraulic motor and hinge mounts
This is the interior of a 2018 BMW X1 with the pillar trims and roof lining removed to access the sunroof frame. In the photo you can see the aluminimum frame and cassette assembly for the sunroof.
This is the complete sunroof assembly removed from the vehicle for repair. In this instance we are replacing the sliding roller blind that forms the sunshade as it’s sagging and not retracting correctly.
Some convertible roof and sunroof maintenance tips from the pros!
Washing your convertible top
It is recommended to wash your convertible top as you would the rest of your vehicle. We recommend to wash your convertible top and vehicle fortnightly at a minimum, more often if dirt or contaminants are building up on the paintwork. You can clean your fabric convertible top with either a soft brush or sponge and always wash your vehicle in the shade. This will help to keep your convertible top in peak condition. We also recommend to clean the rubber seals around the windows and doors and wipe with a protectant product such as vehicle exterior trim restorer suitable for rubbers
- Always wash your convertible top in the shade, never in direct sunlight.
- Wet your convertible top thoroughly and rinse off any loose dirt.
- Using a sponge and bucket with car wash or convertible top cleaner, evenly wash the entire roof and then scrub lightly with a soft bristle brush.
- Gently scrub with a soft bristled brush (a new leather shoe polishing brush is ideal).
- Rinse thoroughly with water until no remaining foam or cleaner is observed.
Convertible top rear window
When cleaning your rear window we recommend to take great care as some windows are part of the convertible top fabric, rather than being replaceable. Never use any harsh cleaning agents or scrub the window with any abrasive products. We recommend to carefully clean the plastic window with a mild detergent like carwash. Chamois dry then buff off any remaining water marks.
Cleaning your sunroof drain channels
This is an important but often overlooked aspect of car cleaning. Often over time dirt and leaves build up in your sunroof drains causing water to leak into the vehicles interior. This can often cause very costly damage due to water ingress into various electrical control units, not to mention the damage to vehicle carpets an interiors. During your annual vehicle service at Stokes and Renk we ensure that we carefully clean out all drain channels and lubricate your sunroof guides, helping to promote reliable operation of your sunroof.
You can also perform inspections at home. Simply slide your sunroof to the fully open position and check the area around the perimeter of the roof frame. If you notice any leaves or dirt simply wipe it out using a clean cloth slightly dampened with water and carwash solution, being careful to not get water into the vehicles interior.
Convertible top and sunroof care summary
- Use a clean soft bristled brush for cleaning your convertible top. A good test to determine if the brush is suitable is to rub it on the back of your hand. If you can rub the brush without scratching your skin, it’s safe to use on your soft top.
- Don’t use a brush on the rear window as it may cause your window to become scratched.
- After you have washed your convertible top use a microfiber cloth to dry the top.
- Your convertible top requires regular maintenance just like your paint. It is recommended to apply a convertible top protectant up to 4 times a year.
- A lint roller can be a great way to touch up a dry convertible top and keep it looking it’s best in between regular washing