Convertible Top Damage

[Dell]

We have a new to us 2006 Beetle Convertible which has rubbed/cut
the convertible top on both sides where it folds into the body of the car.

Has anyone else sustained such damage?

Is there any adjustment to correct this problem?

Local dealer denied any knowledge of this defect in other Beetles.

Do not wish to replace top until we find root cause.

Had 1965 Beetle, Square Back and Camper Bus.


Thanks,

Dell

[sb_beetle]

Originally Posted by Dell

We have a new to us 2006 Beetle Convertible which has rubbed/cut
the convertible top on both sides where it folds into the body of the car.

Has anyone else sustained such damage?

Is there any adjustment to correct this problem?

Local dealer denied any knowledge of this defect in other Beetles.

Do not wish to replace top until we find root cause.

Had 1965 Beetle, Square Back and Camper Bus.


Thanks,

Dell

I've got a 2004 and am starting to see some wear along one of the folds. I would imagine it's the same general location. No adjustment will change it that I'm aware of, but I'm suprised you're seeing it in an '06. Dealers are going to see it as normal wear :-(

[Mister]

Give us some pics just to see if we are talking about the same thing.

[sb_beetle]

Originally Posted by Mister

Give us some pics just to see if we are talking about the same thing.

Here ya go.

Driver's side

[caddick]

We have the same problem on our 04 NBC. Would love advice on preventing this from getting worse.

[zincguy]

We are seeing the same damage on our '07. Had it into the dealer and they took photos to send in to see about warranty work, no reply yet.

Back again in a couple of weeks to follow up. Will post results.

[MyOtherRidesAVette]

Excellent, please do, good luck!

[Darkmann]

Have a 03 and no problems at all with the top. I haven't seen/read any convertible recall either. There are adjustments and your dealer should be able to do that. Check all the cables, especially the ones with ferrules at their ends. The ferulles may come off releasing cable tension and, maybe, causing local fabric crimpling that may eventually result in tear. I know one of my cable end ferrules is out and I keep a close eye on it since VW only sells whole cables - not ferrules alone!

[trackerrrr]

Our '07 NBC has a wear mark on each side in the same spot. The top doesn't leak so it's more cosmetic than anything right now.

[MyOtherRidesAVette]

I have owned many convertibles (currently three). Wear damage is use related, not age related. I can't tell from the pic if the wear is coming from the outside or inside. It would appear that there are broken threads in the fabric. I would get it to a reputable top shop and have them look at it (a top shop will have more experience than a Dealer, the Dealer would in fact send it out for most work). It could be something on the inside that for some reason is causing the fabric to rub on the inside or stretch unnecessarily. They may even be able to bond the fabric or reinforce it before it gets worse. Proper care of the fabric (cleaning and protectant) also play a factor in it's wear. Figure on a couple thousand minimum for a quality replacement. No matter what you have done, top related, it is not a DIY project.

MORAV

[MyOtherRidesAVette]

If this thread draws someone who IS in need of a "new" black top, here is a hellofa deal.

Not my listing.

03-10 VW BEETLE BLACK CONVERTIBLE ROOF TOP OEM - eBay (item 150553468814 end time Feb-22-11 22:45:20 PST)

[pencilneck]

Fairly common issue really. When I worked at the dealer I replaced several tops over the years for this issue if it was still under warranty. The service manager would have to call VWoA and get approval from them before parts were ordered. It tended to be a case by case thing.

Fun fact... the replacement tops lately do not come with the center alignment marks. This means more labor to make sure you get the top centered up perfect when you pull the zippers.

Word of warning to anyone thinking of using an aftermarket top... DON'T. I installed one once (insurance job) and it looked like crap. I refused to ever waste my time and effort on something like that again.