Door Handle Guard, Aluminum, For Beetle 71-74, Pair

OVERVIEW

Enhance the classic aesthetic of your late-model Volkswagen while providing a critical layer of protection for your paint job with these EMPI Aluminum Door Handle Guards. Often referred to as "finger guards" or "scuff plates," these accessories were a staple of the vintage VW scene, designed to sit neatly behind the exterior door handle. Over years of use, the recessed "cup" area behind the door handle is prone to unsightly scratches, chips, and swirling caused by fingernails, rings, and keys every time you reach in to open the door. By installing these precision-stamped aluminum guards, you create a durable barrier that preserves your Beetle''s finish while adding a touch of period-correct "California Look" flair that has been popular since the 1970s.

Crafted from high-grade aluminum and polished to a bright, mirror-like finish, these guards are specifically engineered to match the contours of the 1971 and later door handle style. Unlike plastic alternatives that can yellow or crack over time under the harsh sun, these EMPI guards are built to withstand the elements and maintain their luster with minimal maintenance. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration or simply looking to refresh the exterior trim on your daily driver, these guards offer an affordable and effective way to elevate your car''s appearance. Sold as a pair, they provide a symmetrical, custom look for both the driver and passenger sides, ensuring your Beetle looks as sharp as it did when it first rolled off the assembly line.

FITMENT

These door handle guards are designed for late-model Volkswagens equipped with the specific handle style utilized from 1971 onwards. Please verify your handle style before ordering.

• VW Standard Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• VW Super Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979

SPECS

Technical specifications for the EMPI 00-6432-0 Door Handle Guards:

• Material: Stamped High-Grade Aluminum
• Finish: Polished Mirror-Shine
• Quantity: Sold as a Pair (Left and Right sides)
• Installation Location: Exterior door skin, behind the handle assembly
• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-6432-0
• Weight: Approximately 0.13 lbs
• Compatibility: Late-model trigger-style handles

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Perfecting the Installation

To install these guards properly, you will need to remove the exterior door handle. On most late-model Beetles, this involves removing a single 10mm head bolt or a large Phillips screw located on the inner edge of the door frame (hidden by a small rubber plug on some years). Once the bolt is out, slide the handle toward the front of the car to release it. Before placing the aluminum guard against the body, ensure the paint surface is thoroughly cleaned and waxed. This prevents any trapped moisture or grit from causing corrosion between the aluminum and the steel door skin over time.

Tip 2: Maintenance and Polishing

Aluminum is a "living" metal that can oxidize when exposed to road salt and humidity. To keep these guards looking like chrome, we recommend applying a high-quality aluminum polish once or twice a year. If you live in a coastal environment, applying a thin coat of synthetic car wax over the polished aluminum will provide an extra layer of protection against the salt air. If the guards ever become dull or cloudy, a quick hand-rub with a microfiber cloth and metal polish will bring the deep shine back instantly without the need for power tools.

Tip 3: Check Your Handle Seals

Since you have to remove the door handles to install these guards, this is the absolute best time to inspect and replace your door handle seals (the small rubber gaskets that sit between the handle and the body). Old, cracked seals allow water to leak into the interior of the door, which can lead to rusted window regulators and rotted door panels. Installing fresh rubber seals alongside these polished aluminum guards not only protects your car from the weather but also ensures the guards sit flush and look professionally installed. It''s a small investment that makes a massive difference in the longevity of your door components.