Top Closing sound
 

I have a 2011 Roadster that I purchased in August. This is my first Z. So I'm not familiar with the normal operations of the top. My question is about the sound the back window makes when the top is closing. It makes kind of a pop sound when the top extends and the window is forced into place. Seems like it would be placing a lot of stress on seam around the window. Does this sound like the normal operation?

LHMBP,

I, too, don't like all of the clunking and popping noises that the top makes, whether opening or closing. It really does detract from a vehicle worth the kind of money that we had to pay for these cars.

That said, every online review of this roadster since its introduction in 2009 says exactly the same thing. Check out the YouTube video reviews on the Roadster. While it visually is a sight to see and blows non owners awe struck, the noises it makes doing its thing is less than refined.

If you read through this forum on all of the topics related to top issues, I've only able to recall one that concerned the seam of the rear window.

My take on it would be that it is a rare problem, but worth keeping your eye on.

Gene

Hi

Yes all the noises that the top makes while opening & closing is quite load. I believe that a lot of it is the hydraulic actuators popping the top into position sharply. Mine is 2&1/2 years old & I have my top up & down all the time. Working great & I don't see any signs of seam problems. The only problem I have read about a seam with a problem was right at the edge where the window roles into the weather stripping. At the point where the top edge of the window starts downward at the back. My window, if I open the door too quickly, drags on the edge of the top & I think over time would do some damage in that area. I think too that if a car is being kept outside and getting wet often, that these conditions will possibly cause seam problems quicker.

Dan

Thanks for the feedback
 

I don't really mind the noises. Just wanted to see if that final push of the rear window as it seems to whip into place was normal. I guess I could go test drive one and see if it does the same thing. My car is kept in a garage at home and work. So hopefully minimizing the environmental wear.

I too love Z convertible. Missed my M3 Vert. I am a bit worry about the issues with the top and the high repair cost.

As mentioned in my thread Roof hitting tonneau when opening after I got the bungee cords done, the loud popping sound went away.