Convertible car pros and cons

Most of us have probably been tempted to look into getting a convertible car when the weather is sunny.

To help you decide whether it's the right option, we've put together some of the main pros and cons of driving one.

Pros of a convertible car

Driving in the open air

When the sun is out, there’s no better feeling than driving with the wind blowing through your hair and the sunshine on your face.

The fun factor

There's a definite fun factor when driving a convertible. Running the most boring errand with the roof down can boost your mood.

Travel in style

Convertibles tend to have a particular look and style, so if you're into your cars, they look good to drive.

A versatile vehicle

At the push of a button, you can have the roof up or down in no time.

More visibility

Having the roof down will allow you to see more around you, making it easier to manoeuvre and park.

Cons of a convertible car

Turbulent travel

You can often look windswept after a journey in a convertible, especially if your journey has been on a motorway. Using a wind deflector (an accessory that fits behind the front seats to stop turbulence) can help to avoid this.

Risk of overheating

On warmer days, it can be too hot to have the roof down, especially if you’re sitting in traffic. To avoid experiencing problems after driving in the sun for a long time, many drivers wear sunglasses and a hat.

Unexpected downpours

The weather can be unpredictable and living in the UK, we are partial to rain. Some convertibles with an electric roof allow you to retract it at a certain driving speed, but it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you go on a journey.

Higher costs

When owning a convertible car, you must be mindful that there is now an additional element that can go wrong and may need repairing. For example, if your soft top roof gets a rip, it’s not the same as a small scratch that can be buffed out. It could have an impact on the car being watertight so may need replacing.

Lack of space

If you tend to carry a lot of things in your boot, a convertible car may be a concern as the folded roof will have to use some of the boot space. Plus, if you choose a sportier model with two seats, you won’t be able to travel with more than one passenger at a time.

Get the right insurance

Just like with any car, you need to make sure you have relevant insurance for your convertible. To see what cover Co-op Insurance can offer, visit our car insurance page.