Hi all,

Now that the rainy season has started, I have a zillion cab/paint care questions. I had no idea I would love my MINI so much, I never worried about these things in previous years, just used to let the cars get trashed during winter!

Thanks in advance for your help & advice!


My 2005 MCSc is outside under a fitted cover, but getting wet under it.

#1. I just got a new cab top (yippee), and it is beautifully beading up the rain water. What should I do if anything to the new top, and when? Should i wait until it's perfectly dry, etc. I already bought the 303 fabric cleaner, 303 fabirc convertible top protectant and 303 aerospace stuff.

#2. I have cloth seats. Should have looked harder for a car with leather/leatherette. I have a four year old who will trash the inside with wet/muddy shoes. I am thinking about looking around for new/used leather seats, but I don't know how good an idea this is. I've seen the Wet Okole seat covers, but I don't think I'll be able to stand the smell of neoprene. Any other suggestions?

#3. How do i avoid water spots, on the paint and the plastic? (If I can't do a wash,dry and Hydro/BG/Epic?) If I use Slick, can i just spray that on and wipe off with a monster fluffy MF? What about removing the dirt on the car first? I noticed drip streaks on the plastic kick panel (is that what you call the one under the doors), I guess from rain water? (oh, or possibly the dealer washed the car after replacing the top - I should have told them not to wash it! darn!)

#4. Seems a little damp in the car, do I need to dry it out occasionally - maybe plan to drive it at least every couple of days? I have an extra car, so the MINI can sit for a long time if need be.

#5. Are there waterproof car covers? I am thinking of getting the Superweave from California Car Covers. I am using a used 3 year cover right now.