Door Handle Guard, Aluminum, For Beetle 68-70, Pair

OVERVIEW

Give your vintage Volkswagen the ultimate combination of period-correct styling and practical paint protection with these EMPI Aluminum Door Handle Guards. Designed specifically for the 1968 through 1970 VW Beetle, these guards address one of the most common wear areas on any air-cooled classic. Every time you or a passenger reaches for the handle, fingernails, rings, and keys inevitably leave microscopic scratches in the paint recess. Over time, these scratches dull the finish and can even lead to premature rust in the door cup. These polished aluminum inserts provide a stylish barrier that absorbs the contact, ensuring your paint job remains as pristine as the day it rolled out of the booth, while adding a touch of brightwork that perfectly complements the late-sixties aesthetic.

Crafted with precision by EMPI, a name synonymous with Volkswagen performance and style since the early days of the California car culture, these door handle guards are more than just a protective layer; they are a classic accessory that completes the exterior look of your Type 1. The high-luster aluminum finish offers a brilliant shine that mimics chrome but provides the lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties of aluminum. Sold as a pair to cover both the driver and passenger sides, these guards are a must-have for any restorer or enthusiast looking to add that extra bit of detail to their 1968-1970 Beetle. Installation is straightforward, requiring the temporary removal of the exterior door handle to slide the guard into place, resulting in a clean, factory-plus appearance that looks like it belonged there from the start.

FITMENT

These aluminum door handle guards are engineered for precise fitment on the following Volkswagen models:

• 1968 Volkswagen Beetle (Sedan and Convertible)
• 1969 Volkswagen Beetle (Sedan and Convertible)
• 1970 Volkswagen Beetle (Sedan and Convertible)
• Note: Specifically designed for the unique door handle recess found on 1968-1970 models; will not fit earlier pushbutton or later trigger-style handle configurations correctly.

SPECS

Ensure your restoration meets the highest standards with these technical specifications:

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-6431-0
• Material: High-grade stamped aluminum
• Finish: Polished mirror finish
• Quantity: Sold as a pair (2 Pieces)
• Application: Exterior door handle recess (Door Cup)
• Compatibility: 1968-1970 Type 1 Beetle only
• Installation Method: Installs behind the door handle assembly

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Inspect and Replace Gaskets Simultaneously

Since you must remove the exterior door handle to install these guards, it is the perfect time to inspect your door handle gaskets. In many 1968-1970 Beetles, these rubber seals are original and have become brittle or cracked over the decades. Installing these guards over old, flattened gaskets can lead to a poor fit or even allow moisture to seep behind the aluminum. We highly recommend grabbing a new set of door handle gaskets from Appletree Auto during this installation to ensure a water-tight seal and a professional, flush finish against the door skin.

Tip 2: Surface Preparation is Key

Before sliding the aluminum guards into place, thoroughly clean and wax the paint inside the door handle recess. Once these guards are installed, the paint underneath will be hidden and difficult to access without disassembly. By applying a high-quality automotive wax or sealant to the paint first, you add an extra layer of protection against any vibration-induced chafing and prevent moisture from sitting directly against the finish. Make sure the area is completely free of grit and road grime so the guard sits perfectly flat against the bodywork.

Tip 3: Maintenance for Long-Lasting Shine

While these guards are made of durable aluminum, they can oxidize over time if exposed to harsh weather or road salt. To keep them looking like chrome, treat them occasionally with a fine-grade aluminum polish and a microfiber cloth. Avoid using abrasive steel wool or harsh chemicals that could scratch the polished surface. A quick buffing during your regular wash routine will maintain that deep, mirror-like reflection and keep your Beetle''s trim looking sharp for years to come.