Good points thanks. Yeah, I have noticed that gap on the sides on Z4 top and it bugs me for sure.
Do you have any info from Nissan on a solution to the design flaw in their tops (other than installing another problematic top)?
As for warranty I always get a 100K mile extended on all my vehicles, I have been told that BMW covers theirs from tip to tail but I'm not sure if that includes the soft top or not.

 

I have yet to see a company that will cover the convertible top, but according to Nissan's own papers, it should be covered under the initial warranty, and if they replace it, for 12K miles after they do it. An easy fix would be to have a two piece top, where it is not under pressure at a seam, but then you'd have to deal with welting separating. More or less, if they moved to a cloth top, there would be fewer problems, but it would gain 2-4 pounds, and be slightly thicker (30oz Haartz Fabric or better), which would then be an issue with closing the top, as it already is a tight fit. Who knows if they will get it right?

 

I just had my ZR top replaced at Performance. Free car rental too. Great service. Maybe it'll tear again b4 warranty runs out so I can do it once more. Thanks for all the info., guys.