Snow Damage to Car Hoods and Soft Tops

The worst winter in upto 20 years. That's what the weathermen here in the UK are telling us. Wherever you're living on the UK mainland this winter, you'd not have escaped the heavy snowfalls and then subsequent ice. But what consequence does a foot of snow and frozen ice have on our car hoods? Depending on the type of soft top you have, the results could be dramatically different.

Since the beginning of February, we at ETC HQ have seen an increase in the number of rear window hood repairs on soft top cars (those with plastic rear windows). That doesn't particulary surprise us - a frozen plastic window which is then climbed on by a cat or large bird can cause the plastic, especially if it's already brittle, to 'hole'.

Another increase we've seen is the inside of cars flooding during the thaw. This is because of two things...the drain holes inside cars wings and bodywork remain frozen whilst some of the ice on the roof in full glare of the winter sun starts to melt. The water then finds the easiest way 'downwards', which normally would be through the drain holes. With these blocked, the water instead sometimes runs down the inside of the car and settles in the footwells.

The other problem is that unlike rain, which tends to hit a roof and then drain off rather quickly, ice settles and can stay there for days and days. When temperatures warm slightly, the resulting thaw will mean water will slowly trickle into vulnerable seals and bonded joints, if there are any.

So is it all doom and gloom? Absolutely not. Our advice when snow has settled is to ensure that it doesn't settle on your car for too long - i.e. for several days.  If the snow is particulary thick, ensure it isn't settling too long on the top part of the roof as this can cause the roof to bow slightly.  The soft top drivers here at ETC tend to start their cars and warm them up to benefit the mechanics as much as anything. Having the heater and defrosters on at this point in time can help thaw a snow ridden roof (it can look quite impressive having all the steam coming off as well!).

Beware if you have an old roof or a roof with plastic windows - DO NOT touch the roof or windows in these instances if at all possible because any knock can create a hole or damage. If unsure, call us on 01883 718530!