Aluminum Fender Guard, Front, Fits Beetle, Pair

OVERVIEW

Nothing screams vintage Volkswagen style quite like a set of polished gravel guards, and these EMPI Aluminum Fender Guards for the front of your Type 1 Beetle are the definitive choice for enthusiasts looking to blend protection with that classic Resto-Cal aesthetic. The front fenders of a Beetle are notoriously prone to "road rash" and paint chips caused by stones, gravel, and road debris kicked up by the tires or passing vehicles. By installing these high-quality aluminum guards, you are not just adding a shimmering chrome-like accent to your ride; you are providing a sacrificial barrier that preserves your expensive paint job. These guards are designed to contour to the specific arch of the Beetle''s front fender, offering a seamless look that appears factory-original while providing modern-day durability against the elements.

Precision-manufactured by EMPI, a name synonymous with air-cooled VW performance and styling for decades, these fender guards (often referred to as gravel guards) feature a durable aluminum construction that resists rust and corrosion far better than cheap steel alternatives. Each guard comes equipped with a protective plastic trim/piping along the edge that contacts the body. This critical feature ensures that the metal guard itself doesn''t vibrate against or scratch your finish, providing a snug, rattle-free fit. Whether you are finishing a concourse-level restoration or just want to add some "jewelry" to your daily driver, these front fender guards provide the perfect finishing touch that bridges the gap between functional utility and timeless German styling.

FITMENT

This pair of front aluminum fender guards is designed specifically for the Volkswagen Type 1 platform. Please note that while they fit most standard front fenders, slight contour adjustments may be required for a perfect fit on your specific year.

• Volkswagen Beetle (Standard): 1946 through 1977
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979
• Volkswagen Type 1: All Sedan and Convertible models

SPECS

These technical specifications ensure you are getting the exact part needed for your air-cooled project. Every detail is engineered to meet the demands of the VW community.

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-6436-0
• Material: High-Grade Stamped Aluminum
• Finish: Polished Aluminum (Mirror-like appearance)
• Edge Protection: Black Plastic Protective Piping/Trim included
• Quantity: Sold as a Pair (Left and Right Front)
• Installation Type: Bolt-on/Clip-on (Depending on fender lip configuration)
• Shipping Weight: Approximately 0.36 lbs
• Compatibility: Fits Front Fenders only

PRO TIPS

Pro Tip 1: Pre-Contour for a Perfect Fit. Before you commit to the final installation, hold the guard up to your fender to check the curvature. Fenders can vary slightly between original German steel and aftermarket replacements. Gently "massage" or pre-bend the aluminum guard with your hands to match the exact radius of your fender. Doing this before you tighten any fasteners prevents the guard from "springing" away from the body and ensures the plastic trim sits flush against the paint, preventing water and dirt from getting trapped behind it.

Pro Tip 2: Protect the Paint During Install. Even though these guards come with plastic piping, it is a smart move to apply a thin layer of high-quality automotive wax or even a strip of clear paint protection film (PPF) to the fender area where the guard will sit. This adds an extra layer of insurance against vibration-induced paint wear over thousands of miles. Also, make sure the fender surface is surgically clean and free of any grit before sliding the guard into place to avoid grinding debris into your clear coat.

Pro Tip 3: Maintenance and Polishing. Because these are made of genuine aluminum, they can lose their luster over time due to road salt, rain, or oxidation. Don''t treat them like chrome-plated steel! Use a dedicated aluminum polish and a microfiber cloth twice a year to bring back that deep, mirror shine. Unlike chrome, which can flake or peel if damaged by a rock hit, aluminum can be sanded and re-polished, meaning these guards can practically last the lifetime of your Volkswagen with just a little bit of elbow grease.