I'm wondering how long you can expect the convertible top on an XK8/XKR to last before it needs to be replaced?

I've seen posts on cleaning/dying and re-waterproofing tops but my search didn't turn up any results on expected life with "normal" use (given that everyone's normal is different...)

If you could share your experiences, I'd appreciate it.

 

2001 my, 64k miles. My stitching has worn in many places and fold areas near back window looks awful where it creases. The headliner looks awful with brown stains. I think I have leaks into the headliner, but not on me...yet. I've priced the parts at about $5-600 and labor at about $600, using the old backglass. BTW my top is tan, and I have treated it over the years.

 

2001 XKR, 80,000 miles, Black top, car was originally a Houston vehicle till about three years ago when I brought it to Illinois. All the stitching is good, has a couple of frays from the creases and some wear marks from being folded otherwise in pretty good condition. I only drive it about 3000 to 4000 miles a year and it's in the garage the rest of the time

 

2001 XK8 with 97k miles. Dark blue top is in very good condition, no rips,tears, bad seams nor is it discolored. Not sure of its age, but it may be original.

Headliner is in same condition, but suffers from the usual orange stains. No leaks so far. I intend to waterproof it this summer with Raggtopp.

Texas sun would be hard on it, but I keep it down as much as possible. Just to save it's condition of course.

 

2001 XK8, Black Top, daily driver, miles 101,100 - I am sure that this is still the original top. Sunfade just a little, but Calfornia RagTop once a year brings most of the black back. No broken threads or stitching. Couple of light scuff marks from dropping it down. Put some extra RagTop on them and they do not appear to be getting any worse for wear. No wet or damp spots. Fully expect several more years before a replacement may be in line.

Just keep it clean (especially when putting it down), get the bird p**p off of it and recondition at least annually.

 

'97 with 115,000 miles. The headliner is a bit stained, and there some small spots on the top that won't come out, but for a tan top it looks pretty decent. I'd love a new one, but then I'd have to worry about every tree or pigeon bombing course I parked under.

 

Thanks so much to everyone who replied.

 

Have an 1998 XK8 black roof and 148000 miles. Roof looks as new as day one. Pretty sure its the orginal. Texas Car