Rear View Mirror, for Beetle 68-79

OVERVIEW

When you are cruising down the highway in your classic Volkswagen, visibility is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety requirement. Over the decades, original factory mirrors often succumb to the elements, resulting in "ghosting" glass, yellowing reflective surfaces, or loose ball joints that cause the mirror to vibrate uncontrollably at speed. This EMPI O.E. Style Rear View Mirror is the definitive solution for owners of 1968 through 1979 Beetle sedans who want to restore that crisp, factory-fresh view of the road behind them. Engineered to match the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications, this mirror features a high-quality reflective surface housed in a durable casing that maintains the vintage aesthetic of your interior while providing modern reliability. Whether you are finishing a concourse-level restoration or simply replacing a cracked unit on your daily driver, this mirror offers the perfect balance of period-correct styling and functional longevity.

Restoring a late-model Beetle requires attention to detail, and nothing ruins a clean interior like a pitted or floppy rear view mirror. This EMPI replacement (Part Number 98-8579-0) is designed specifically for the Type 1 Sedan platform, ensuring that the mounting points align perfectly with your existing hardware. Unlike generic "one-size-fits-all" mirrors found at local auto parts stores, this unit respects the specific geometry and vibration frequencies of the air-cooled VW cabin. The sturdy mounting arm is built to withstand the rigors of a stiff torsion bar suspension, keeping your rearward vision stable even on less-than-perfect pavement. By choosing this O.E. style replacement, you are ensuring that your Bug stays true to its heritage while benefiting from the updated manufacturing tolerances that EMPI is known for in the air-cooled community.

FITMENT

This rear view mirror is designed specifically for the following Volkswagen models:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Sedan): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979.
• Volkswagen Super Beetle (Sedan): 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977.
• Note: This mirror is intended for Sedan models. Convertible models typically require a different mounting style or windshield-bonded bracket.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 98-8579-0
• OEM Reference Number: 113-857-511L
• Application: Interior Rear View
• Housing Material: High-impact automotive grade plastic
• Finish: Period-correct satin/matte finish
• Glass Type: Clear, non-tinted high-definition glass
• Adjustment Type: Multi-axis ball and socket joint for precise positioning
• Weight: 0.8 lbs
• Style: Original Equipment (O.E.) Reproduction

PRO TIPS

1. Check Your Mounting Plate Integrity

Before installing your new EMPI mirror, take a close look at the mounting area above the windshield. On 1968-1979 Beetles, the mirror is held in place by screws that thread into a specific bracket area. Over time, these screw holes can become stripped or the headliner material can get bunched up behind the mount. Always clean the mounting surface thoroughly and ensure the screws are started by hand to avoid cross-threading. If the holes are slightly enlarged, you may need to use a slightly larger gauge sheet metal screw or a specialized thread restorer to ensure the mirror stays tight and vibration-free during your drive.

2. Eliminate High-Speed Vibration

Air-cooled Volkswagens are famous for their unique engine harmonics, which can sometimes cause the rear view mirror to "buzz" or blur at certain RPMs. When installing this mirror, ensure the mounting arm is seated perfectly flush against the body. If you still experience minor vibration, a small trick used by veteran VW mechanics is to place a tiny piece of thin rubber gasket material or even a small dab of clear silicone between the mirror base and the mounting surface. This acts as a dampener, absorbing the engine''s frequency before it reaches the glass, providing you with a crystal-clear image of the traffic behind you.

3. Proper Glass Maintenance and Longevity

To keep your new mirror looking factory-fresh, avoid using harsh ammonia-based glass cleaners on the reflective surface, as these can occasionally seep behind the edges and damage the silvering over many years. Instead, use a microfiber cloth dampened with a mild vinegar and water solution. Additionally, when adjusting the mirror, always grasp the housing firmly rather than pushing directly on the glass surface. This prevents putting unnecessary stress on the ball joint and keeps fingerprints off your line of sight. If the ball joint feels too stiff out of the box, a single drop of dry graphite lubricant can help it move smoothly without attracting dust like oil-based lubricants would.