Bernie's Auto Upholstery

Every NA and NB owner eventually faces the top

Every NA and NB owner eventually faces the top. Stuart K. put his off "as long as possible until the glass window finally fell out." When that day comes in San Diego, Miata owners have been calling Jim at Bernie's for well over a decade.

Same-day tops and straight answers

Owners describe new tops on 1996 and 2001 Miatas, often finished the same day: drop it off in the morning, drive home that evening with the top up (or down, we don't judge). Jim talks people through vinyl versus canvas, suggests upgrading older plastic rear windows to glass, and will even steer you toward a color that wears better. Owners say the advice comes without an upsell.

The story that stuck with us: Kristin's top flew back on the freeway and shattered the rear window. The shop had her car fixed the next day and custom-modified the latches so the top couldn't release by accident again. "It was time-consuming and way above and beyond the call of duty," wrote Kristin P.

Know before you go

Expect good communication. Stuart got text updates with photos, and Jim checked three suppliers to find the best price on replacement cables. Fair warning: Jim likes to talk, and Mathew happily stayed ninety minutes after pickup. "It's nice to be able to drive in the rain again and not worry about getting soaked!" wrote Brenda S.

The shop moved from Lemon Grove to Santee, so older listings may show the old address. Call a few days ahead so your top can be ordered and waiting.

Last updated on October 20, 2026.