How to Replace a Convertible Top Relay in a Ford Mustang Convertible
If the top has malfunctioned on your 2006 Ford Mustang Convertible, you may have a damaged or broken convertible top up or down relay. Relays, like fuses and switches, help your vehicle's adaptive learning computer to control the amount of high current distributed throughout the electrical system. If your warranty has expired, replacing one of these relays on your own may save you time and money.
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Things You'll Need
- Manual
- Replacement relay
- Magnifying glass (optional)
- Soldering tools (optional)
Instructions
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1
Disconnect the battery, as you run the risk of an accidental electrical surge that could hurt you or cause costly damage to your Ford Mustang if you leave the battery connected during repair.
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2
Remove the cover from the power distribution box that houses the convertible relays. The power distribution box resides under the hood in the engine compartment.
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3
Unplug your convertible top UP and/or DOWN mini relays located in the bottom right corner of the box (labeled respectively as the 31 and 33 blocks on your power distribution box diagram). If you're uncertain as to their location or if replacement is for other model years, confirm using one of the owner manual .pdf files found at Ford Fleet (see Resources).
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4
Plug your replacement Ford Mustang convertible top relay securely into the empty relay socket. Keep in mind that a loose relay can cause current running through it to overheat the circuit board or outer casing and can melt surrounding relay casings or the production distribution box cover. Replace the power distribution box cover by firmly clicking it into place.
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5
Reconnect your battery and reset your Ford Mustang's adaptive learning computer with the following steps: Set the parking brake, move the gearshift to park, turn off all accessories, start and then idle your engine for at least one minute, turn on your air conditioning and continue to allow the engine to idle.
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6
Test your top by running it up and down to see if the relay corrected the malfunction. If the top works, continue with your computer reset by driving your Ford Mustang at least 10 miles (to help the adaptive transmission to relearn) and reset the clock and radio presets.
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Tips & Warnings
Save additional time and money on future replacements by repairing your old relay's circuit board solder. A relay can malfunction from current resistance followed by a voltage drop when solder joints become damaged or have microscopic cracks. Find these cracks with a magnifying glass.
Never make DIY repairs on a Ford Mustang unless you feel certain of your repair skills and ability to follow directions. If your Ford Mustang has a current warranty, use it before attempting DIY repair as even the tiniest mistake (failure to disconnect the battery before replacing a relay resulting in an electrical surge that wipes out the adaptive learning computer or burns wires) could result in costly repairs.
