If you’ll finally pull the trigger on a new-to-you convertible this spring, then a lustrous second-hand drop-top will likely be in your driveway soon, and this will be a glorious occasion.

Of course, second-hand convertibles are most enjoyable when they aren’t concealing pricey or annoying issues that might conspire to form leaks, mechanical problems, and other headaches. Because we care about you, we’ve compiled some tips to help ensure you wind up with a first-class, second-hand convertible you’ll enjoy for years to come. Read on for the scoop.

Unwelcome dampness

Press your hand into the front footwell carpeting, and the carpeting in the area beneath and behind the front seats. Any dampness, signs of water staining, or a gross mouldy odor could indicate a water leak that should be addressed before you buy. Also, leather seating surfaces may become dry, crinkly and hard (think beef jerky-like) if they’ve ever been very wet. Check the area where the convertible top stores for signs of mould or standing water, too.

Open and close, over and over

Does the convertible you’re considering have a motorized roof mechanism? Cool — provided it’s working properly. Open and close the roof, several times, and at several points on your test drive. Any indication of straining, binding, a sudden reversal in direction, a sudden stop in the action of the roof, or (especially) a warning message illuminated in the instruments relating to the roof system, should be taken as a sign to have the vehicle assessed by a professional.

Inspect the seals

Convertibles use a partially concealed superhighway of rubber seals, flaps, channels, and troughs to keep water outside and away from the vehicle’s cabin. Open all doors, then open the roof, stopping it about halfway through its range of motion. Now all vital rubber weather seals should be easy to see, so inspect them carefully. Ensure no seals are missing, and that each is plump and puffy, like a newborn baby’s cheeks. Cracked, degraded, dried up or ‘crispy’ looking rubber components should be replaced.

And while you’re at it

With the convertible roof halfway open, inspect the painted or fabric top for signs of rubbing, ripping, chipping, abrasion, or any wear that indicates unwanted contact of one or more components against the roof while it’s in motion. This type of wear could indicate a problem, or the need for some adjustment to the roof assembly — ideally by a dealer technician familiar with your convertible.

Maintenance is key



Like all things made of moving parts, the roof of your new convertible requires occasional maintenance, inspection, and lubrication to keep things fresh and functional. Check the owner’s manual for the full scoop, and be double-sure to lubricate all rubber seals (with an appropriate lubricant) as instructed, at regular intervals. Failing to lubricate the weather seals is a leading cause of cursing while driving a leaky drop-top in the rain.

Don’t forget

Your new convertible’s slick removable roof will be the talk of the neighborhood, but remember that it’s a regular car, too. As such, don’t forget to check full maintenance records, tires, brakes, and to make all other standard pre-purchase checks, too.

Shopping for a Mazda MX-5 Miata?

If you’re considering the most popular convertible of all, you’ve come to the right place. Dave Biagioni is a Mazda MX-5 Miata expert. He’s also the owner of Dave’s Garage — The Miata Specialists in Ontario, and he has decades of experience working on this popular Japanese sports car.

“Miatas have proven to be one of the most reliable sports cars ever produced,” he says. “Over the years, Mazda has sold over a million of them — and they can be lots of fun and very economical to own.” Biagioni says that while reliable, Miata shoppers should still inspect certain areas carefully. His best advice?

Check for rust: “Some of these cars are now 30 years old, so rust can be an issue,” he says. “The rocker panels are a prime location for rust, as moisture can build up in the fenders and rockers. If the fender or rocker panels are rusty, simply walk away — repairs can get very expensive.”

How low (mileage) you can go: “As with most used cars, I recommend buying the newest, low-mileage Miata that fits your budget,” he says. “In my opinion, the Miata has gotten better with each successive model. Low-mileage models do exist, and they can limit the need for expensive maintenance and repair bills down the road.”

Professional checkup: “I routinely recommend those new to the Miata world bring the car they’re interested in to myself for an inspection before purchasing,” he says. “I’ve worked on these cars since 1996 and know the intricacies of each model. While they’re very reliable, they can still have issues that require attention. For instance, 2001 to 2005 models can have issues with cam position sensors, which are sometimes hard to diagnose but not costly to replace.”

The former owner: “Some owners are true enthusiasts and some even treat their cars like a member of their family. Finding these owners can be as simple as looking at Miata-specific internet forums or joining Miata-specific clubs, such as the Trillium Miata club in Ontario,” he says. “If the car in question has been stored indoors since the beginning and never winter driven, this can make a huge difference in its overall condition.”