<figure style="display: block; margin-bottom: 1rem;"><img width="925" height="616" src=" class="attachment-large size-large wp-post-image" alt="A BMW Z4 with a graphic outlining problems with hardtop convertibles." data-portal-copyright="E89 BMW Z4 | BMW" decoding="async" srcset=" 1600w, ?w=300&h=200 300w, ?w=768&h=512 768w, ?w=1024&h=682 1024w, ?w=1536&h=1023 1536w, ?w=90&h=60 90w, ?w=902&h=601 902w" sizes="(max-width: 925px) 100vw, 925px" /><figcaption class="wp-media-credit">E89 BMW Z4 | BMW</figcaption></figure><p id="par-1_68">If you were a driver or car enthusiast in the early 2000s and 2010s, you probably remember convertible cars like the E89 BMW Z4, R170 Mercedes-Benz SLK, and Cadillac XLR. However, these cars weren’t the typical soft-top roadster application you still see today. No, these cars stowed a multi-piece hardtop to bridge the gap between traditional <a href=" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">convertibles</a> and coupes. So, what are the problems with these hardtop convertibles?</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hardtop-convertibles-are-a-cool-way-to-enjoy-sun-soaked-skies-but-they-re-not-without-their-issues">Hardtop convertibles are a cool way to enjoy sun-soaked skies, but they’re not without their issues</h2>
<p id="par-2_43">Whether a four-seater like the F33 BMW 4 Series or a dedicated two-seater like the Mazda <a href=" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MX-5</a> RF, <strong>hardtop convertibles </strong>can add a layer of cohesive styling and security to a drop-top. However, as with soft-top models, there are problems with hardtop convertibles. </p>
<ul>
<li>Troublesome failures</li>
<li>Expensive repairs</li>
<li>Added weight</li>
<li>Hardtop storage often compromises trunk capacity</li>
<li>Deteriorating seals may leak water</li>
<li>Creaks and rattles as vehicles age</li>
</ul>
<p id="par-3_78">As you might imagine, a folding metal roof with rigid panels can have an off day. That’s right; we’re talking about bothersome failures. Tragically, that could mean a stylish roadster stranded with the top down and rain on the way. Fortunately, online forums and enthusiast pages have unique short-term solves and DIY fixes for faulty rooftops. For instance, some hardtop convertibles allow owners to manually raise the top. However, faulty or broken rooftops can result in pricey repairs. </p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large" id="emb-1"><img decoding="async" width="1600" height="1066" src=" alt="A blue 2013 Infiniti G with its hardtop convertible roof up. " class="wp-image-1699434" srcset=" 1600w, ?w=300&h=200 300w, ?w=768&h=512 768w, ?w=1024&h=682 1024w, ?w=1536&h=1023 1536w, ?w=90&h=60 90w, ?w=902&h=601 902w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A 2013 Infiniti G with the top up | Nissan</figcaption></figure>
<p id="par-4_48">Unlike a soft-top roadster, a car with a folding metal roof and supporting hardware will add weight. A lot of weight. As such, drop-top cars with folding roofs will sacrifice fuel economy and performance. Furthermore, the lack of a seamless, single-piece construction roof means less rigidity for convertibles.</p>
<p id="par-5_48">Moreover, hardtop convertibles tend to have problems with storage. For instance, the E89 <a href=" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMW</a> Z4 drops its folding roof panels above the contents of the trunk with a dividing tray to protect the contents. However, with the top down, space is limited and access is at a premium.</p>
<p id="par-6_34">Finally, as hardtop convertible sports cars age, their seals can deteriorate and crack. As a result, water can intrude and cause damage or mold. Beyond seals, aging vehicles can develop irritating creaks and noises.</p>
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