Arione

Mine completely separated. I unhooked the metal ends from the elastic loops and placed it in the rear trunk. Dealer told me its just a fold placer bar for when you put the top down. They quoted me north of 6k for a new top but couldnt tell me if it was an improved version. Mine is garage kept but it does get hot in there. Been without the bar for almost 2 years now with no noticeable difference. the elastic dangles with the top up, but I just ignore it.

dmwray

My sense is the unit is the same in every way. I took it because of CPO but I would likely have followed same path as you had I been staring down that same cost to replace...