When the days grow longer and the warm breezes of summer and fireflies grace the skies, shopping for a convertible can be tempting. But before you shell out the dough for a new ride, be sure to consider these reasons a convertible may not be the best choice for everyone.
Newer convertibles have built-in roll bars that help protect you and your passengers in case your vehicle overturns, but older models don’t. An overturned vehicle without this safety factor can prove to be fatal.
Maintenance and repair needs are inevitable when dealing with electric windows or doors, and even power sunroofs. Most convertibles use an automatic switch to open and close the roof, so you may need to add this to the list of items that need regular maintenance. A faulty roof switch or a blown fuse may leave you soaking wet if you drive into storms or showers.
Advances in modern automotive manufacturing have made newer convertibles quite efficient in preventing the loss of heat from your car in the winter and cool air in the summertime, but convertibles are still not as efficient as fully enclosed autos. Your heater and air conditioning systems will need to work a little harder to keep the vehicle the temperature you want.
Let’s face it, convertibles are not family vehicles. Even advertising portrays these vehicles to be for adults who want fun and freedom. Traveling with small children or more than three passengers is just not a good idea in a convertible.
Convertibles don't have much storage space for transporting groceries and other purchases. Going on a vacation or business trip in a convertible may prove to be a problem for more than one person.
The average cost of a new convertible in 2010 stands at about $24,000 for a basic no-frills model, according to Edmunds. While this isn’t a huge amount for a vehicle, you can get more for your money.
Don't expect a quiet ride. Noisy traffic and whistling wind are bound to make travel louder than regular vehicles. This may not sound like a big deal, but it certainly can make talking to passengers more difficult when traveling or talking on your cell phone.
The sun beating directly onto the interior of your vehicle will take its toll. Exposure to the elements can crack leather and cause it to tear. Even upholstery will look worn before it should. Convertible owners need to take extra precautions to prevent interior damage and spend more time maintaining the interior than owners of regular fully enclosed vehicles.
They are desirable, and thieves may find soft top model convertibles can be easier to break into. If you aren’t careful where you park now, a convertible will make you think twice about parking in unlit or desolate places.
Just because most modern convertibles are small does not mean that they get great mileage Wind resistance may actually drive up your gas costs.
