New z4... Advice appreciated!!!

C

cirode23

New member
Hi I'm glad to say I've joined the z4 club! I've got a 58plate z4, 45k miles. Is there any pointers I need to know?!

Also one thing I need to know is about cleaning the roof. I'm hoping to hand clean the car myself most of the time. One thing is if there are times I won't be able to do it do you guys think those hand wash people would be alright to do it with a soft top roof? The guys I've used with a previous car are decent but I don't know if I should risk it wig that roof. Also any pointers for when I do clean the roof myself? Never had a soft top before!!!

Thanks in advance sorry if it's already been asked!!
 
Hello and welcome.
I have the E89 Z4 but when I had a Honda S2000 soft top I used to use autoglym fabric roof cleaner / conditioner twice a year, just before winter and after.
Me personally only me or the wife wash our cars with grit catchers in the buckets and I use two buckets one to clean the lambs wool mitt and the second bucket for the car wash.
Enjoy your new toy and don't forget to upload some pics.
:driving:
 
Hi welcome to the forum. Nice low miles at 45k, you need to get some picture posted :poke:
One pointer I recommend is put plenty of fuel in and enjoy :driving:
I was just about to say I have noticed members on here recommending the Autoglym product for the soft top.
 
I would avoid washing the roof in the same way you wash the car, because the roof drains are a known weak point and soaking the roof is just putting them under pressure.

Wash the rest of the car as normal, and do the roof separately with Autoglym or similar product. These are just a spray on cleaner with a separate waterproofing spray.
 
Thanks I'll look into that autoglym stuff then. So if I was to take it to one of those hand car wash places one day if I'm short of time I could ask them to do the car but leave the roof then?

Picture will be up soon:)
 
If you are going to use the car wash guys, that's fine, but make sure they don't use the jet wash too close to the roof
 
Hi & welcome

I have used car wash guys as a last resort to washing the car myself but always get them to leave the roof. I used a water repellent called Fabsil during the summer last year and will do it again when the weather improves, it has kept the roof nice and I've not had to touch it in the meantime. It's available online or through high street camping outlets fairly cheaply.
 
Hi and welcome - all the usual checks before purchase I hope to reduce the potential for future issues.

Car wash guys = paint swirls i.m.o. so always do it myself. I always use the BMW car was stuff for the roof - it does whats it says on the plastic bottle :thumbsup:

Enjoy your Zed :thumbsup:
 
Stratts said:
I would avoid washing the roof in the same way you wash the car, because the roof drains are a known weak point and soaking the roof is just putting them under pressure.

Wash the rest of the car as normal, and do the roof separately with Autoglym or similar product. These are just a spray on cleaner with a separate waterproofing spray.
Click to expand...

Great advice, I always wash by hand and avoid, as much as possible, getting any water spray on the roof. Even the best commercial hand washes are not going to take the care you would on your own car in keeping sponges, leathers etc clean and grit free, personally I would never ever consider using them, its safer to leave the car dirty for a few days until you can clean it yourself.

In terms of roof care, I have tried every product available and have found the Renovo range to be the best. The complete kit can be purchased for about £30 and consists of a Colour restorer, reproofer and sealer. The colour seems to remain fresh for a few years(unless in strong sunlight all the time) and every 2-3 years a single coat of reproof at approx £12 seems to keep the soft top in good condition.
 
SteveG said:
Hi & welcome

I have used car wash guys as a last resort to washing the car myself but always get them to leave the roof. I used a water repellent called Fabsil during the summer last year and will do it again when the weather improves, it has kept the roof nice and I've not had to touch it in the meantime. It's available online or through high street camping outlets fairly cheaply.
Click to expand...

I'm with Steve, I have also only used the "Car Wash Guys" twice but always asked them to leave the roof.
They are more than happy too as I guess it's less work for them!

Then sorted the roof myself with the AutoGlym pack :)
 
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