This Aston Martin DB11 came to our shop with a Roof that had been ruined by DIY Dye Job – Thousands Spent Fixing a Simple Mistake

Convertible Roof Care Tips from CarHoods Northern – the UK’s No.1 Convertible Roof Specialists

We recently had a stunning Aston Martin DB11 arrive at our workshop in sorry state, after its convertible roof had been permanently damaged by a home dye job gone wrong.

The owner, trying to freshen up the appearance of their soft top, had a well known off the shelf roof dye product applied buy a professional car detailer. While their intentions were good, the result was anything but. The dye reacted poorly (like always) with the factory roof material, leaving unsightly fold lines throughout the fabric. Worse still, the surface of the roof felt like sandpaper to the touch — completely ruining the tactile quality and luxury aesthetic of this iconic vehicle.

Why You Should Never Dye a Convertible Roof Yourself

Convertible roofs are made from specialist materials designed to withstand harsh weather, UV exposure, and mechanical folding. Applying non-approved products — particularly dyes and cleaners — can cause irreversible damage. In this Aston Martin DB11’s case, what began as a small cosmetic touch-up led to a full roof replacement.

Not only did the appearance suffer, but the resale value and overall enjoyment of the car took a hit — and it cost thousands of pounds to put right.

Professional Roof Repairs for Luxury Vehicles

At CarHoods Northern Ltd, we’ve been working with convertible roofs since 1992. Whether it’s a classic Jaguar, modern Porsche, or high-end Aston Martin, we know how to treat roof materials properly — and we only use products recommended by manufacturers or tested by our team.

From colour restoration and weatherproofing to full roof replacements, our workshop in Cheshire is trusted nationwide by insurance companies, dealerships, and car enthusiasts alike. Our nationwide mobile fitting service also means we can come to you — no matter where you are in the UK.

Expert Advice: How to Maintain a Convertible Roof

To avoid costly mistakes like the one seen on this Aston Martin DB11, we always recommend the following:

• Use approved cleaners and protectants: Convertible roof fabrics require specific care. Never use household cleaning products, solvents, or dyes not designed for automotive textiles.
• Avoid harsh brushes or abrasive sponges: These can wear away protective coatings and break down the material’s surface.
• Regularly inspect for signs of wear: Early intervention can prevent small issues from turning into major repairs.
• Leave it to the specialists: If in doubt, contact a convertible roof specialist for advice before trying to fix or recolour anything yourself.

Damaged Roof? We Can Help

Whether you own a high-end convertible like an Aston Martin DB11 or a classic soft top that’s seen better days, we’re here to help. At CarHoods Northern, we provide expert repairs, restorations, and replacements using high-quality materials and factory-approved techniques.

📞 Get a quote today or speak to our team for advice on how to keep your convertible looking showroom fresh.

Take a look through the images below to see the dramatic before-and-after transformation of this Aston Martin DB11 following its full roof replacement. The results speak for themselves.