Door Handle, Chrome, for Beetle 45-66, Bus 50-60 Ghia 56-63

OVERVIEW

When it comes to restoring the interior of a classic Volkswagen, the details are what truly separate a standard driver from a show-quality masterpiece. This EMPI Chrome Door Handle is a premium reproduction designed to bring back the brilliant luster and tactile precision that your vintage VW had when it first rolled off the assembly line. Whether you are finishing a concours-level restoration on a 1950s Split Window Beetle or simply refreshing the worn-out cabin of a 1966 Bug, replacing pitted, rusted, or snapped interior handles is one of the most cost-effective ways to elevate your driving experience. The high-quality chrome plating provides a deep, mirror-like finish that perfectly complements the classic aesthetic of the air-cooled era, ensuring that every time you reach to open your door, you are greeted with a solid and reliable component.

Precision-engineered to meet or exceed original equipment standards, this handle (referencing OEM number 113-837-225A) is built to withstand the mechanical stress of daily use while maintaining its show-stopping appearance. In the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, fitment and material quality are paramount. Unlike inferior alternatives that utilize thin plating or brittle castings, this EMPI unit features a robust construction and a multi-step chroming process that resists corrosion and peeling. It is an essential upgrade for any early Beetle, Bus, or Karmann Ghia owner who refuses to settle for anything less than period-correct perfection. Sold individually, these handles are designed for a seamless, direct-fit installation that requires no modifications to your existing door latch mechanism.

FITMENT

This chrome interior door handle is designed for a wide range of early air-cooled Volkswagen models. Please verify your vehicle''s production year before ordering:

• Volkswagen Beetle (Type 1): 1945, 1946, 1947, 1948, 1949, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966
• Volkswagen Bus (Type 2 / Transporter): 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14): 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963

SPECS

Technical specifications and material details for the EMPI 98-1039-0 door handle:

• Material: High-strength die-cast zinc alloy for maximum durability.
• Finish: Triple-plated premium chrome for a deep, reflective shine and corrosion resistance.
• OEM Reference: 113-837-225A.
• Manufacturer Part Number: 98-1039-0.
• Application: Interior door release lever.
• Orientation: Non-handed (Fits both driver and passenger side doors).
• Installation Style: Direct replacement using factory mounting hardware.
• Weight: 0.16 lbs.

PRO TIPS

1. Inspect Your Escutcheons and Seals

When you are replacing your interior door handles, it is the perfect time to inspect the plastic or metal finger plates (escutcheons) and the small rubber or plastic seals that sit behind the handle. Over decades, these components often become brittle, cracked, or discolored. Installing a brand-new chrome handle against a faded or cracked escutcheon will make the old part look even worse. We highly recommend ordering new trim plates at the same time to ensure the entire assembly looks factory-fresh and operates smoothly without scratching your door panels.

2. Evaluate the Latch Mechanism Health

If your original handle broke or felt "spongy," the problem might actually lie deeper within the door. Before installing your new EMPI handle, take a moment to clean and lubricate the internal door latch mechanism with a high-quality white lithium grease. Often, the grease inside these 60-year-old doors has turned into a thick, sticky paste, which puts unnecessary strain on the handle. A well-lubricated latch ensures that the handle operates with minimal effort, preventing premature wear on the splines of your new chrome lever.

3. Proper Installation and Pin Alignment

Many early VW handles are secured with a small roll pin or a set screw. When installing your new handle, ensure that the splines are fully seated and aligned before driving the pin home. If you are using a roll pin, use a dedicated roll pin punch to avoid marring the fresh chrome finish. A common mistake is using a standard flat-head screwdriver or a pair of pliers, which can easily slip and scratch the handle. Taking an extra five minutes to use the correct tools will preserve the mirror finish of your new EMPI hardware for years to come.