Expert: Bob - 5/23/2009

Question
   I have a 2006 Chrysler Sebring convertible.  Regular
gray cloth top, kind of showing a little discoloration, but not bad.  Is there maintenance for this cloth, or cleaning?
         How about coloring it?   I saw a car like mine
with a nice blue cloth top.

          Thanks,   Dick

Answer
Dick,

Use a car wash soap and a stiff nylon brush. Give it a good scrubbing in the shade and rinse. Make sure the car body is cool and wet so as not to streak the paint with the soap.

When the top is completely dry, vacuum and lint roller any dust.

It is not unusual to have dark lines or areas were the ribs of the top are. The constant stretching when opening and closing the top helps dirt embed itself in the fabric. It almost impossible to remove without damaging the material.

You can follow up the cleaning with a fabric protectant from a name brand manufacturer, READ THE INSTRUCTIONS! You don't want to get it on the paint.

As for re-dying the top a different color. I really don't know about this procedure. Check a local convertible top place.

Thank you,

Bob