Spyder top reliability

[idt512]

Considering buying a Spyder and was wondering about the reliability of the top, i see a lot of ads with torn or not working tops. Is it common for it to fail? Is it the mechanism or the motor itself or both? How about leaks? Should i stay away and just get the hardtop models?

 

[muddfisher85]

They just have more maintenance . The top needs to be changed every 3 to 4 years. The more parts there is to fail the more things you have to maintain. Its just the nature of the beast.

 

[jcart953]

Cant speak on everything but my top works fine. I did have to replace it when I purchased it though but that was mainly due to the fact it was all patched up and stuff. Otherwise no motor problems or anything. However if you are buying one just test out the motor by opening it and closing it several times, and checking to see if it aligns correctly.

 

[95talongirl]

Yup, its just the nature of a convertible. If you take care of the top, it will last. Garaging helps in keeping the weather wear down on the fabric.

I have a 1995 Ford Mustang convertible which still has its original top. However, the previous owner ALWAYS garaged it, and the car was rarely driven. What's funny, though... is the hydraulics quit working, so it's no longer a power top. As you can see, it's just the nature of a convertible. It's not limited to Mitsubishi.

Also look for water leaks. Another downside to convertibles and sunroof cars is they develop water leaks as the seals age.

 

[crash89]

My spyder is 13 years old, it needs a new top.. Its got a couple holes, some of the staples have pulled out and there are a couple leaks.. But what can you expect out of an original top.. The motor and everything works great still though. Even if it does stop working there is a manual mode for the top.. Ive been using that this year jsut because I havent put my trunk panels in and the switch was in "manual" mode when I took them out.

 

[bryanwheat]

The top needs to be changed every 3 to 4 years.

This is in no way true. If the top is taken care of properly than it will easily last 8-10 years+

 

[92AWDHX40]

I used to work a mitsu dealership while i was in college and have had friends with those cars and still have the original tops over 15 years on some cars.

 

[spyderdrifter]

The only problems I had with my first spyder were the motors not working, didn't care since I had to lower it manually anyway because the arms attached to the floating rib were broken. It leaked once in a while around the seal around the windshield frame too. My current one has the same motor and floating rib problems. I don't know if anything leaks yet though. Still, with these problems, I like the spyders. Its the nature of the top to have components give out due to age or neglectful previous owners.

 

[LouieAWDTSi]

My spyder leaks at the rubber seals so i will replace them when i get around to it. The top is in great shape and the motor works well. I dont drive the car everyday, but i do drive it often. For now, i dont use the car if theres a chance of rain. I dont keep the car garaged, but i do keep it covered with a waterproof cover that keeps it all dry inside during storms.

 

[Xrossfader]

I have the original top on my 98 and it still works great. I do need new seals but seems minor in comparison.

The only problem I had is with the arms that hold the shape in the middle of the top... They stopped pulling back and got crunched. Since these are not replaceable I found a different solution that replaces them and fixes the issue with those not being pulled for only $75. I just ordered these but searching on the forums I found they are great. I can let you know once I install them!

 

[SARGUEZ]

Like many of the other guys have said. Convertibles require more maintenance. I have a spyder and a 2004 mustang vert. both with original tops and both looking and working good.
Just make sure you don't leave anything valuable visible from outside because it could atract thieves...considering they could just cut it with a knife...happened to a friend

 

[fierosail]

just take care of it and it will last mine has no probs at all

 

[infam0usdeed]

I love my Spyder. I get quite a few looks around town with it. They're not hard to maintain. There are convertible care kits out there. As far as I can tell on mine, they do work well. I did have to replace mine a few months back. It wasn't hard either. The original was worn. Almost like paper.

 

[Xrossfader]

Anyone have good recommendations for care products?

 

[WES_393]

Anyone have good recommendations for care products?

Raggtop makes a great care kit that uses separate cleaner and conditioner. Works for both Fabric and Vinyl too. If your top is a little leaky, Kiwi Camp Dry is an amazing waterproofer.

Raggtop Kit

Kiwi Camp Dry