I just recently acquired my first convertible, a 2000 Sebring jxi. Question: Is it a good idea to "exercise" the convertible top raise/lower mechanism periodically during the winter, when you would not be driving with the top down very much at all? Like, once a week, 3 times a month, or other guideline? I already have read an advisory which says that the top should never be lowered when temperatures are below freezing. But would some down&up operation here and there when the temperature is safely above freezing be advisable?

 

The fabric of the top is basically vinyl, which gets stiff and hard as the temperature drops. There are a couple of places where the top folds pretty severely, and the stresses there can be pretty high. To me, the risk of cracking the vinyl outweighs the benefits, if any of exercising the mechanicals.
I keep my convertible in the garage for the winter, maybe venture out once a month or so if the roads are dry, and I don't fold the top if the temperature is under 60°.

 

Yea, i would be saying the same thing, my 1999 sebring convertible (originally an Ohio car) has to have the hydraulic pistons replaced, because of this...yep..to the tune of $450 dollars