it might have an aftermkt clear bra on it. Basically, it's a plastic film. As with the rear window in your soft top, over time (and w/o proper care) it can yellow (hard to tell on some colors) and become brittle/crack. If so, you will be able to peel it off (lightly heat will aid in the process) and just polish/wax the paint w/ clear coat underneath once all the glue residue is removed.
Where it has already peeled/cracked is paint underneath still glossy? If so, it's likely an aforementioned clear bra. If paint is dull then your clear coat could be peeling away which will likely require full respray of base and clearcoat. Can you find some edges/corners (i.e. remove the headlight module or side marker light and see if there is an end to the film)? A picture would help immensely.
FWIW, most clear bras from that era were "guaranteed" to last/not yellow for ~ 5-7 years... w/o "proper" maintenance other than washing. So even if it was put on in '02-'03, it could be about time...
Good luck
