I have a 2009 S2000, and the soft top is looking pretty raggedy. It's got cracks and tears in at least 3 places. I'd like to replace it, but holy cow! The auto upholstery shops want so much to do it! I'm fairly handy and I've successfully replaced the leather seat covers in this car. Is replacing the convertible top DIY-able, or is it complex enough that I should just cough up the money and let a professional do it? Thoughts?

 

Some have diy'd. Its a real pia. I don't plan to diy mine, and I diy everything. But I'd diy before I'd pay an upholstery shop to mess it up worse than I would.

Find someone local that does these on the side. Someone that has done many. There are a lot of tricks that a regular upholstery shop wouldn't know about.

 

If you are in the Mid Atlantic area, hit up Jeremy Dewey (2poor2mod) out of the Philly area. He has done many tops and is the master!

If you're not in the area, check some of the local forums here on S2KI to see if you can find an installer near you.

If you absolutely must DIY, there are threads here and I'm sure YouTube vids that can at least show you what you're in for.

Jeremy installed my top with a brand new Robbins canvas after a 2 hour drive to his house and the whole thing took less than 8 hours (including driving).

Finally, mention S2KI.com at topsonline.com and get free shipping.

Good Luck!

 

Don't have just any "professional' or shop install the roof unless you can confirm they've done several S2000 roofs as the liability for even a slightly botched replacement includes water flooding the trunk and other serious problems.

The Robbins (brand) StayFast cloth roof looks much better than the OEM roof -- if you could even find one.

If you're anywhere near New Jersey @2poor2mod (Jeremy) is the gold standard installer. He came down to Northern Virginia a few years ago and did several of our cars the same weekend. Knows his stuff and has all the special tools and materials. There are others who are capable but get personal recommendations.

Cost (ain't cheap and prices are up): Plan on $1,100 for the Robbins roof and at least $500 for the installation. Remember you're paying for skill.

-- Chuck

 

+1 on paying someone to do the top. I'm probably the most DIY guy imaginable...but after watching the process and how quickly Jeremy was able to get it done, and how well it came out, I wouldn't have had it any other way. Money absolutely well spent. @2poor2mod is a gift for s2k owners. If you have the opportunity to have him do your top, or any well-known s2k top installer, I'd very much take it into consideration

 

I did an eBay top install myself. Took 2 Days but would probably take 5 hours taking your time with a friend. It looks cheapish but it gets the job done. I mostly bought it for when it gets too hot and I need a cover.