2012 SS Convertible Top Issue
 

Sorry if this has been asked before. My 2012 convertible has had all it's water management problems fixed. But a new problem has surfaced and the top no longer operates. The issue seems to be with some kind of brace or something positioned at the center of each side of the rear window. On the right side, I can feel a square or rectangle part under the canvas. On the left side (driver side), I cannot feel that part and this side is lower than the passenger side, so it has this wonky look to it. I feel like this part has slid down and is causing a blockage of the top operation mechanism. Any info you have would be appreciated. I'd like to know your thoughts before I spend an enormous amount of money to have it diagnosed and fixed.

This could possibly be the dreaded fifth bow issue. Do a search, you will find tons of information regarding that issue. It was a common problem on convertibles built before 2013 I believe. :yikes:

I know that you said that the water management issues have been addressed. Could you post a few pic's of what's going on?
-E.N.

Picture of Wonky Top
 

I feel bad about a mistake I've made, but the top does actually function. The last time I brought it in for service, they didn't return that pull-out thing to its outward position. However, the rear window is wonky like I described in my original post. Here's a picture. The left side of my rear window droops down.

A Diagnosis - Somewhat?
 

I just returned from a convertible top repair place. He thinks a couple of screws have come loose from the bracket I mentioned and would be an easy fix. However, he said that the rubber strip below the window that runs the width of the trunk should not be showing as much as it is. Recommendation was to take it back to the dealer.

Not sure if you overlooked my first reply, but I'm pretty sure you are dealing with a bent 5th bow. There's plenty of posts that discuss this problem and some have actually repaired themselves. Here's a post that discusses the signs/symptoms of this problem. Good luck with the repair. Search the convertible section for more information and possible tips on DIY repairs.

https://www.camaro5.com/forums/showt...hlight=5th+bow

I did see it before I took my trip to the convertible top guy. I started poking around and found some really good info on the 5th bow issue, one of which had pictorial details on what the problem looks like and how he fixed it. I agree with you, I've got the 5th bow disease. Thanks for your opinion because it did get me going on research.

Glad to hear it and good luck with the repair! On the bright side, you can just go topless all the time. :thumb: Hope it works out

Not to derail the topic, but when did you have your water management issues fixed? Was it withing the warranty period, and if not did chevy do anything to help you with the repairs? I am currently going through this and chevy and the dealer are basically saying yes it was a known design issue and they issued replacement parts, but I have to pay out of pocket for it since it's out of the 3 year warranty period

My WMS issues revealed themselves within the warranty period, thank goodness. Still no leaks to this day, although I think I do have the 5th bow problem so prevalent for our generation of Camaro.