Tail Light Lens, Left Or Right Side, for Beetle 68-70

OVERVIEW

When it comes to restoring the classic silhouette of your 1968 to 1970 Volkswagen Beetle, nothing ruins the look faster than faded, cracked, or dull tail light lenses. This EMPI replacement tail light lens is designed to bring back that factory-fresh brilliance while ensuring your vehicle remains safe and visible on the road. Often referred to by enthusiasts as the ''Tombstone'' style light, this specific lens represents a pivotal era in VW design, sitting perfectly between the smaller early-sixties lights and the massive ''Elephant Foot'' lenses of the later seventies. Crafted with high-quality, UV-resistant materials, these lenses are engineered to withstand the elements, preventing the yellowing and brittleness that often plagues original 50-year-old plastic. Whether you are performing a concours-level restoration or simply keeping your daily driver street-legal, this lens offers the perfect balance of period-correct aesthetics and modern manufacturing durability.

At Appletree Automotive, we understand that precision matters for air-cooled enthusiasts. This lens is a direct replacement for OEM number 111-945-241J, ensuring a snug, vibration-free fit within your existing tail light housing. Because these lenses are universal for both the left and right sides, they offer incredible convenience for owners looking to refresh the entire rear end of their Bug. The vibrant red and clear sections are molded with crisp internal optics that maximize light dispersion from your bulbs, ensuring that your brake lights and turn signals are unmistakably bright to following traffic. Don''t settle for hazy, taped-up lenses that compromise your safety and your Beetle''s curb appeal. Upgrade to these EMPI lenses and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with high-visibility signaling and a clean, vintage look that honors the heritage of the Type 1 Sedan and Convertible.

FITMENT

This tail light lens is designed specifically for the following Volkswagen Type 1 models:

• 1968 Volkswagen Beetle (Sedan and Convertible)
• 1969 Volkswagen Beetle (Sedan and Convertible)
• 1970 Volkswagen Beetle (Sedan and Convertible)

SPECS

Technical specifications and product details for the 98-1077-0 tail light lens:

• Part Number: 98-1077-0
• OEM Reference Number: 111-945-241J
• Material: High-impact UV-stabilized acrylic plastic
• Color Configuration: Red with Clear (Reverse) section
• Orientation: Universal (Fits either Left or Right side)
• Mounting: Uses standard factory screw locations
• Quantity: Sold Individually (Each)
• Weight: Approximately 0.59 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Always Inspect Your Tail Light Seals

When you are replacing your lenses, it is the absolute best time to inspect the rubber seals (gaskets) between the lens and the housing, as well as the housing and the fender. Old, compressed, or cracked seals allow moisture to enter the assembly, which leads to corroded bulb sockets and premature bulb failure. If your seals look flat or have visible dry rot, we highly recommend replacing them at the same time you install your new EMPI lenses to ensure a water-tight fit that protects your electrical system.

2. Avoid Over-Tightening the Mounting Screws

One of the most common mistakes when installing new plastic lenses is over-tightening the mounting screws. These lenses are made of durable acrylic, but they can crack if too much pressure is applied at the screw holes. Hand-tighten the screws until the lens is snug against the gasket. If you feel resistance, stop. It is also a good practice to apply a tiny amount of anti-seize or even a dab of grease to the screw threads, as the captive nuts inside the housings are notorious for rusting, which makes future lens changes much more difficult.

3. Clean Your Bulb Contacts and Grounding Points

Since the lens will be off, take two minutes to look at your bulb sockets. Air-cooled VWs are famous for grounding issues. Use a small piece of fine-grit sandpaper or a wire brush to clean any oxidation off the brass contacts and the housing base. A small dab of dielectric grease in the socket will prevent future corrosion and ensure that your new, clear lenses are illuminated by the brightest possible light. If your bulbs look dark or silvered inside, replace them now so you don''t have to pull the lens off again next week.