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  4. Can you drive a convertible in the winter?

Can you drive a convertible in the winter?

Quick answer: Yes — modern convertibles are fine in winter. The key is maintenance: keep the hood clean and re-proofed, clear the drains, and condition the rubber seals (e.g., with Krytox) so they seal and don’t freeze to the glass. Avoid opening the roof below freezing, clear snow with a soft brush, rinse off road salt, and use good winter screenwash. If the cabin gets damp, dehumidify and dry mats to prevent misting and mould.

Fiat Barchetta Convetible
This beautiful Fiat is ready for winter and well maintained. Of this we can be sure, as we maintain it. 

There is nothing wrong with driving a convertible in winter, and no reason you shouldn't, as long as the car is well maintained.

The problem is that many convertibles are not well maintained, and people don't even realize. Convertibles have a reputation of being cold, damp and smelly, and this is because they are a little more prone to leaks than normal cars.

People who have a convertible often assume that water is leaking through the roof, and come to us for weatherproofing, thinking this will solve the problem. This is hardly ever the case, it is more likely that water is leaking in through the rubbers or, because convertible cars are so desirable, and people keep them a long time, it could be nothing to do with the roof and water is leaking in from one of the places cars usually leak when the seals and grommets get old.

Nonetheless, you end up with a leaky car, the windows are steamed up in the mornings, it takes ages to demist, it feels cold, it smells of mildew, and you wish you left it in the garage.  This situation is not actually unique to convertibles. 

It doesn't have to be this way, and it shouldn't be this way. A convertible which is well maintained should be just as warm and dry as any other car. 

Written by . Last updated 09/09/2025 13:58