I'm looking at a 2000 S2000 (88k miles) and all seems well but the top concerns me. I've done quite a bit of research on the top so I wasn't surprised when I noticed several rips and a punctured plastic window. However, I'm wondering about the mechanics of the top (the actual raising and lowering of the convertible top). How reliable is it? Has anyone ever reported a broken motor or anything like that? I would hate to be stranded with a non-functional top.

 

I don't hear about the mechanics of the top failing almost ever... I wouldn't worry about that.

 

Mine is working fine and it gets a lot of use. Never had an issue and mine's an 02. Even the original top straps are in place and still working fine.

The only thing I noticed recently is one of the thinner crossbars broke at the weld point on one side but it doesnt affect top operation at all and still *mostly* stays in place.

 

Mine is fine too.

 

I've never heard of one failing except in rare cases of abuse.

 

My car is a 2000 model and I'm on my 3rd top (OEM and 2 Robbins). The motors are never the problem. You just need to keep an eye on the straps as the top retracts. Plus checking for sharp edges on the frame.

 

Replace the cloth top and you're good to go.

 

3 tops? Wow. So even the Robbins rip?

 

I'm on my second top but that is because the sun faded out the first one

mechanically it is perfect