Undoubtedly, the Mustang convertible top replacement uses superior quality materials, such as vinyl or canvas fabric. Likewise, the quality of material remains the same for both OEM and aftermarket. With the OEM material, you will be sure that it will be of perfect texture, color, and weight.
Possessing a superb and stylish vehicle such as a Mustang is ideal for both on and off-road expeditions. When you own such a versatile automotive, it is worth investing in additional accessories such as a convertible top. On a relaxing summer, pull down the top and relish the ride with optimal comfort and protection.
In addition, it also enhances the look of the vehicle, making it more elegantly chic. Yet if you already have one which has become defective, then replacing the same is the only optimal solution in hand. To facilitate this, one must learn about the Mustang convertible top replacement.
More: The 10 best replacement shocks for Ford Ranger.
05 Best Mustang Convertible Top Replacements Reviews in 2021
01. Sierra Auto Tops 10-11-MUS-023 Convertible Soft Top Replacement- Made with premium quality material
Product Features
- Compatible with Ford Mustang 2005-2014
- Comes with a heated glass window
- DOT rated glass window
- Includes embedded defroster wiring
- Has factory-style sewn-in attachment for easy mounting
- Ideal water and heat resistant cover
Product Specifications
- Brand: Sierra Auto Tops & Seats
- Model: 10-11-MUS-023
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Dimensions: 48 x 25 x 3.25 inches
Product Description and Performance
Sierra Auto Tops 10-11-MUS-023 convertible top replacement is one of the ideal replacements for Mustang 2005-2014. While talking about its features, it has a beautiful heated glass window that is sealed into the vinyl. In addition to this, the sealed windows help keep water out all through the rainy seasons. Also, this convertible top keeps the heat out, which makes it the best Mustang convertible top replacement.
This elegant soft-top sailcloth vinyl has been used for manufacturing, which makes it more robust and durable. Along with this, each part of the convertible top is designed with premium quality material for outstanding longevity. In addition to this, the installation process is straightforward and requires minimum effort. All you need to do is follow the instructions in a sensible way. Finally, this convertible soft top is one of the ideal replacements and will offer an exact fit as the factory-installed one.
Pros
- Gives a perfect fit
- Superior quality
- Offers great looking
- Very easy to install
Cons
- Instructions are poorly mentioned
- Installation may require professionals
02. AutoBerryABL6-V0M5-MKW2-BL Convertible Soft Top- Gives beautiful looking to the vehicle
Product Features
- Made up with sailcloth vinyl material
- Offers pre-cut assembly for easy installation
- Is compatible with Mustang 1994-2004
- Setting up is very easy
- Includes factory style extrusions
- Comes with both rear heated glass window and top section
Product Specifications
- Brand: AutoBerry
- Model: ABL6-V0M5-MKW2-BL
- Weight: 66 pounds
- Dimensions: 46 x 20 x 5.5 inches
Product Description and Performance
Autoberry’s ABL6-V0M5-MKW2-BL convertible top is ideal for Mustang with models coming in the range of 1994-2005. Also, it is designed superbly with a pitch-black finish to give a nice look to the Mustang. Along with this, it is specially designed with sailcloth vinyl that gives extra life and endurance to the convertible top. The only issue with this convertible top is that the installation may take some time. Apart from this, there are no compatibility issues and it offers factory-like fittings.
While talking about the built quality, this convertible top has the supreme built quality and can easily sustain water and heat from entering into it. Also, the premium quality vinyl makes it the best Mustang convertible top replacement. In addition to this, it comes with a heated glass window on the backside as well as at the top section. At last, this convertible top is ideally designed to give gorgeous looks to the Ford Mustang.
Pros
- Comes with proper installation instructions
- Elegant design
- Matches OEM perfectly
- Heat resistant
Cons
- Sides get pinched by door window
03. AutoBerry Ford Mustang Convertible Top- Ideal replacement with the superior built quality
Product Features
- Magnificent convertible top for Ford Mustang 2004-2015
- Offers heated glass window
- Glass window are DOT rated
- Has pre-assembled retainer
- Features magnificent finished trim on the edges
- Very easy to set up
Product Specifications
- Brand: AutoBerry
- Model: FM-05-13-Black
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Dimensions: 53 x 20 x 5 inches
Product Description and Performance
Autoberry’s FM-05-13-Black offers a whole new look to the Mustang that will make you stand out from the crowd. For compatibility with Mustang models from 2004-2015, this soft convertible can be an ideal choice. Along with this, the installation process of this convertible top is very easy as it comes with pre-drilled retainers. So, to get it installed, the user requires no additional drilling.
Now coming on to the designing part, this convertible top is perfectly designed to keep the rainwater out. Along with this, it comes with a heated glass window that is DOT rated, making it the best Mustang convertible top replacement. And, on top of all, it comes with tightly sealed trim that offers gorgeous looking and water protection at the same time. Finally, it provides a significant design that makes it the ideal choice for all Mustang lovers.
Pros
- Looks great and fits well
- Proper fit
- Magnificent customer support
- Premium design with supreme quality
Cons
- Installation instructions are not mentioned
- Sometimes top comes with defects
04. Sierra Auto Tops Convertible Top 10-11-MUS-006- Perfectly designed
Product Features
- Compatible with Ford Mustang 1994-2004
- Comes with factory style extrusion
- Fits accurately with any extra effort
- Includes rubber weather seal
- Offers both window and top section
- Prevents water from entering inside the vehicle
Product Specifications
- Brand: Sierra Auto Tops & Seats
- Model: 10-11-MUS-006
- Weight: 22 pounds
- Dimensions: 52 x 20 x 4 inches
Product Description and Performance
Sierra Auto Tops 10-11-MUS-006 is seamlessly designed to give great looking and compatibility to the Ford Mustang with models from 1994-2004. For manufacturing, the manufacturers have used single texture sailcloth vinyl that makes it stronger and durable. Along with this, it includes a new tinted, defroster wire embedded glass window. Along with this, it consists of a rubber weather seal sewn that keeps water out of the convertible top. Also, it gives an excellent reduction from the road noise that makes it the best Mustang convertible top replacement.
In addition to this, it comes with both top and window sections, and the windows are bonded using an advanced window bonding system. This eventually eliminates the need for stitching, piping, or any sort of heat seal. Finally, the design and material used in designing this elegant soft top make it one of the best options to go for.
Pros
- Offers great fit and quality
- Ideal replacement top
- Excellent delivery process
- Installation is very easy
Cons
- Does not last for a long time
- Poor after-sales service
05. AutoberryAB-007-FM-CT-Black convertible top replacement- Great OEM like replacement top
Product Features
- Compatible with Ford Mustang 1994-2004
- Made with factory style sailcloth vinyl
- Window is designed with heavy 40-gauge press polish plastic
- Comes completely assembled
- Installation instructions are available with the request upon purchase
- Offers excellent resistivity towards water and heat
Product Specifications
- Brand: AutoBerry
- Model: AB-007-FM-CT-Black
- Weight: 12 Pounds
- Dimensions: 50 x 20.9 x 3.4 inches
Product Description and Performance
Autoberry’s AB-007-FM-CT-Black is one fine solution for people searching for a Mustang convertible top. As it is compatible with the Ford Mustang with models of 1994-2004, it looks pretty gorgeous on the Mustang. In addition to this, it is also made with sailcloth vinyl material that almost all of the Ford customers prefer. Moreover, this convertible top comes with pre-assembled accessories that make it very easy to install. Apart from this, installation guidelines are available upon request after the purchase.
Also, the convertible top window is designed using heavy 40-gauge press polish plastic that offers superior visibility. Moreover, the window is adequately sealed to counter any water leakage, making it the best Mustang convertible top replacement. Finally, this convertible top is an ideal choice for customers looking for a factory-like replacement top for their Mustang.
Pros
- Fits perfectly
- Excellent quality
- Can be installed easily
- Offers better services
Cons
- Sometimes come with cheap quality material
- No proper installation tips are offered
How to Replace the Convertible Top for Mustang?
Replacing the convertible top for the Mustang is a bit challenging and time-consuming task. There are mainly two options; one is to do the job yourself, whereas the second option is to hire a professional. If you follow the instructions correctly, it will become easier for you to carry out the Mustang convertible top replacement.
Get all the Essential Tools
Firstly, accumulate the below-mentioned tools that you would require to complete the job.
- Head and a flathead screwdriver to remove the screws present on the existing convertible top
- Needle nose pliers to take out the staples
- Ratches, sockets, and extensions to remove the bolts of the convertible top
- Get a pry bar made of plastic, as it would help take out the convertible top’s parts that are hard to remove
- A measuring tape along with a marker for measuring the top pad before fixing it
- Clamps to hold the adhesive intact in one place
- Keep a stapler handy while mounting the convertible top, as you might need it anytime
Taking Out the Screws from the Convertible Top
Initially, you have to place the convertible top downwards and then begin with the frontal side rails. Remove the tiny clips of plastic to discharge the rails on the side. Afterward, take out all the screws present on the frontal retainer and then look for the staples around that part. Using a needle-nose plier, remove the staples at first and then the front edge.
Moving on further, confiscate the screws present on the side rail. If the corners around the side contain adhesive, then use a pry bar and move it around. Clutch the convertible top and push it in the backward direction.
Freeing the Bow
Once you are done with bending the frontal part, check for the bow over the top. Detach the screws on that side to release the bow. Now unbolt the bolts that are clamping the bow together. Likewise, loosen the bow’s staples and then repeat the same process for the remaining ones too.
Confiscating the Weather-stripping
Generally, there is a weather-stripping on the backside that you have to confiscate. For this, place the ply bar inside and then pull it outwards and remove the rubber part along with the screws. Take off the existing cover from both sides, thereby eliminating the third bow as well.
Doing Away with the Backwards Corner of the Glass Convertible Top
Get in your vehicle’s back seat and then stretch out to the good liner to take it out from the clip. Further, release the bolts and detach the tension cables from the trim. To make this happen, you have to let go of the metal tabs and tug out the spring.
Drawing the Glass Window Outwards
Confiscating the glass window is one of the crucial steps while accomplishing Mustang convertible top replacement. One would require staples to drag out the glass window. After doing so, there will be some remaining material on the edges. Refrain from removing that as it is a time-consuming and complex process.
Alternatively, you can unbolt the screws that are holding the leftover material together. Confiscate the same with the help of a screwdriver and then tug out the rubber portion. You have to discharge the metal clips to get rid of the top and then take out the original top.
Fixing the Top Pad
After taking away the old top, fix the new one by restapling the top pad towards the rear bow. Furthermore, place the top into the exact place, thereby measuring the flap and figuring out the midpoint. Let us understand this through an example. If the flap is 32 inches, then draw the mark at around 16 inches and then line it up using the screw. Later on, staple the flap and fix the bow.
Once you are done with installing the bow, fasten the bolts back to their intended place. Subsequently, lifting the headliner and placing it into the ideal position is a challenging process. For this, you will require an additional helping hand to pull the headliner on the other side.
Moreover, set the screws in from the bottommost part to prevent the headliner from coming off. Similarly, fold the top frontward, fix the next bow, and then fasten the headliner to the topmost position.
Setting up of the Route Tension Cables
Another critical step while carrying out the Mustang convertible top replacement is installing the route tension cables on the newfangled top. Initially, take hold of the string and tie it towards the cable, thereby pulling it through. While doing so, ensure to feed it over the retainer and smash it using a hammer.
Fasten the New Top to the Rear Side
Before attaching the top to the rearmost part, eradicate the convertible trim molding present over the backward. To make this happen, loosen the screws that hold it together and then get rid of the edge of the top. Most importantly, you might have to confiscate your car’s back seat and, later on, the quarter trim panels too.
Once you are done with this, unbolt the screws and then fix the tack strip. Install the tabs over the top pad in the direction of the studs on the rear side.
Installing the Tack Strip
Begin with the central part, the exterior pieces, and gradually start carving your way through it. Fix the tack strip and secure it downwards and mount the back bolts for the key hoop. Later on, get inside your car and reattach the screws on the way to the tack strip. After that, set up the cables that go to the bottommost front edges of the convertible top.
Further, the next step requires folding of the top pad in the rear side on top of the convertible trim moldings. Fasten the screws back, and then reinstall the clips that you confiscated earlier. Now mount the weather-stripping retainer, thus reinstalling the moldings of the convertible top. Slide them in a way that they should split right inwards and then lock them down. Lastly, proceed to the trunk and constrict it properly.
Fitting the Newfangled Convertible Top
After accomplishing the above-stated steps with flying colors, apply the adhesive in the corners. Now you have to fold the cover and staple the same, then slightly fasten both the corners for a snug fit. Pull the middle downwards and staple it to ensure that it is evenly placed with the lines around the frame.
Similarly, place the retaining plate and then set up the weather-strip retainer on the corner and put back the weather-stripping. Later on, fix the double quarter trim panels with the good liner. Last but not least, restore the rear seats into their original position.
Maintenance tips for the convertible top to enhance its service life
Installing the convertible top properly on your Mustang is not enough to preserve its quality. One has to take care of certain other aspects that contribute to the excellent health of the top. Below are a few tips that you must follow to keep the convertible top in good condition for years.
- Never leave the convertible top downwards overnight
- If the temperature is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, then do not put the top downwards
- Opt for hand washing instead of an automatic one
- Clean the parts on which there is an accumulation of dirt and grime
- Regularly repair the small leaks, rips, and tears before their condition worsens
- Do not keep the convertible top lay unused for a prolonged time in the downwards direction
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the service life of a convertible top?
Ideally, a convertible top would last around 10 to 15 years if proper care is taken. An important thing to note here is that the top’s longevity would depend upon the quality, maintenance, and usage. If there are any damages to the convertible top, you can get a repair kit to fix the issue. If not, then consider getting a new one for your Mustang.
What is the cost of replacing a convertible top?
On average, it would cost you around $350 to $500 if you want to purchase a brand-new convertible top. Besides that, if you are hiring a professional to install the new top on your vehicle, it would take around $1,000. There is no denying that replacing a convertible top is an intensive task, so it is a bit costly.
How much time does it take to replace the convertible top?
If you hold sound knowledge regarding the convertible top’s replacement process, you can finish the job within two hours only. Contrary to this, it might take a whole day to complete the same task for beginners. Quite obviously, if you are replacing the top for the very first time, then the process would not be that smooth for you. That is why one must go through the repair kit’s instructions carefully before starting with the convertible top replacement.
How to clean the convertible top?
Refrain from using cleaners that contain bleach, petroleum, citrus, or silicone. These ingredients can deteriorate the convertible top’s quality and also affects its water resistivity.
Aside from that, it can also damage the factory seals and seams. Instead, use a natural and mild cleanser that is free from detergent and glossing agent. Do not leave any residues of the cleaner and rinse properly to protect the color from fading. For soft convertible tops, use a brush with soft bristles and gently rub it on the solid areas after cleaning. Similarly, for the vinyl tops, opt for a more delicate cloth made of microfiber only.
Which one is more preferable between a fabric and a vinyl convertible top?
A convertible top comprising of cloth of soft fabric would feel like a tend material upon touching it. Mostly, it is more delicate, flexible, and lightweight in comparison to the other hardtops in the segment.
Conversely, the vinyl convertible tops possess a grained plastic-like texture with a glossy finish. These are more durable, resilient, and reliable than the fabric ones. Though the choice of material would depend on the requirements, it is preferable to go for the vinyl convertible.
What should I do if the convertible top malfunctions?
If the convertible top malfunctions while moving upwards or downwards, then contact a professional for the rescue. At times, the top gets trapped, and during that time, forcing the unit to either open or close will worsen the situation.
Is it safe to use a protectant for the vinyl convertible tops?
Yes, it is entirely safe to use a protectant for the vinyl convertible tops as long as it is of superior quality. Commonly, vinyl protectants are a great solution to secure the top’s texture with its color against fading and cracks. In addition to this, it also protects the convertible top against daily grime and harmful UV rays too.
One must take proper care of the top from the very beginning, as once the damages are done, they are mainly irreversible. Wash the top once a week using a mild and chemical-free shampoo or a vinyl cleaner. On top of this, apply the protectant over the convertible top at least once a month.
How to sustain the fabric convertible tops in the long term?
Though the fabric tops’ maintenance process is identical to vinyl ones, the former requires fabric-specific cleaning products. A significant dissimilarity between these two is that the fabric tops need a firm scrubbing brush. Thus it assists in taking out the impurities and dirt stuck inside the fibers of the fabric material.
In general, the fabric tops are intensely treated during the manufacturing stage to resist the water and other inevitable impurities. Due to certain environmental deteriorations, this treatment lasts for a short duration only.
If you notice any wet spot that indicates the penetration of water inside the fabric, the top has to be treated again. After the affected area has been washed and dried out completely, apply the protectant monthly. Add multiple coats of the same to allow every application to dry before the next one fully. Utilize only a small amount for each application and do not soak the entire area.
Conclusion
Indeed, this review, replacement process, and FAQs with some of the shortlisted products, must have helped you select the one that best suits your requirement. One can enrich the vehicle’s resiliency, utility, and appearance by opting for a Mustang convertible top replacement. For this, the afore-mentioned product options with the replacement process would help you out. Having a convertible top for your Mustang will enhance its efficiency to perform in extreme climatic conditions. So get one and make the most out of the vehicle while cruising with your loved ones. Have a joyful ride.
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