Of all the Jeep parts you can install on your Wrangler, the one that takes a real beating is your soft top. This is especially true if you use your vehicle on the highway at higher speeds or park it in areas where the soft top is exposed to the elements, with the sun particularly destructive. Dirt and grime, if not cleaned off often, can also have an adverse effect on the life of your Wrangler soft top. Let’s take a look at a few ways to keep it in a good condition.
Regular washing
One of the first things you should do is to regularly wash your Wrangler’s soft top. Aim for at least once per month. There are a number of products on the market specifically for this, although you could use a mild detergent solution as well. Begin by cleaning off all the dirt that has accumulated with a soft brush and then wash thoroughly, focussing on the windows to keep them clear. Avoid using any cleaner that contains ammonia or alcohol. These will just dry out the fabric which will then eventually crack.
Never take your Wrangler through a commercial car wash that uses high-pressure sprayers as this will cause damage. Water in most cases will also get into your vehicle.
Zipper care
As the only Jeep part you will ever find that includes zippers, you may overlook this important part of your soft top.
If not cleaned often, you may struggle to open and close your windows after a while. To clean the zippers, brush any dirt or grit out of them using an old toothbrush. Brush along the zipper runner as well.
If you ever find your zippers are stuck, you can make them as good as new by lubricating them. Do not use a spray lubricant as dirt has a tendency to then collect in the zipper afterwards. Rather use a small piece of soap, rub it over the zipper mechanism as well as the zipper runner. This will ensure your zipper moves easily. Consider attaching a key ring to the zipper itself to make it easier to open and close your windows.
Polishing your soft top
To further enhance the life of your soft top, polish it regularly. Do not use a spray polish that you would use around your home. There are specific products for this, and they are the only ones you should use. If you are unable to get these products, consider Plexus plastic cleaner. This product adds a thin wax coating as an extra layer of protection.
Parking your Wrangler
Obviously, the area in where you park your Wrangler goes a long way in keeping your soft top in good condition. Try to keep it out of the sun, especially midday heat. Never park under trees as you will be cleaning your soft top more often than you should, thanks to our feathered friends. Finally, try and park your Wrangler in an area where it will not be sandblasted by the wind and fine sand. This can cause scratches on the windows. As far as Jeep parts go, a soft top is relatively inexpensive, but by following the hints above, you can extend its life significantly.