Door Handle Guard, Stainless, for Beetle 56-59, Pair

OVERVIEW

Protecting the investment you have made in your vintage Volkswagen is a top priority for any serious enthusiast, and these EMPI Stainless Steel Door Handle Guards are a period-correct solution for a common wear point. On the 1956 through 1959 VW Beetle, the recessed area behind the door handleoften referred to as the door cupis highly susceptible to unsightly scratches from fingernails, jewelry, and keys every time someone reaches to open the door. These guards provide a durable, mirror-polished barrier that shields your paintwork while adding a touch of classic accessory flair that was popular during the golden era of air-cooled Volkswagens. Crafted from high-quality stainless steel, they offer superior resistance to corrosion and pitting compared to traditional chrome-plated steel, ensuring they stay looking brilliant for years to come.

These guards are designed specifically for the unique door handle profile used during the mid-to-late fifties. Unlike later models, the handles from this era have a specific curvature and mounting style that requires a precision-fit guard to look factory-correct. Because these early door handles do not feature a front mounting point to sandwich the guard against the body, these guards rely on the tension of the handle base and a proper installation technique to stay seated. This pair of guards is an essential addition for anyone performing a high-level restoration or simply looking to preserve the original paint on a survivor car. By installing these, you are not just adding a shiny accessory; you are installing a functional piece of armor that maintains the value and aesthetic integrity of your Beetle''s exterior.

FITMENT

This product is engineered to fit the following Volkswagen models and years:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Sedan): 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959
• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Sunroof): 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959
• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Convertible): 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the EMPI Door Handle Guards:

• Material: High-Grade 304 Polished Stainless Steel
• Finish: Mirror-Polished Chrome-Like Shine
• Quantity: Sold as a Pair (Left and Right sides included)
• Manufacturer Part Number: 00-6446-0
• Application: Fits behind exterior door handles
• Weight: Approximately 0.19 lbs
• Corrosion Resistance: High (Stainless steel construction prevents rust)
• Hardware Required: Uses existing door handle mounting hardware

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Use a Dab of Clear Silicone for Stability

On the 1956 to 1959 Beetle handles, the front edge of the handle guard is not mechanically fastened to the door skin. To prevent the guard from rattling or shifting slightly during use, we highly recommend applying a very small dab of clear, automotive-grade silicone to the underside of the front edge of the guard before sliding it into place. This keeps the guard snug against the body without damaging the paint, and it makes the door feel much more solid when you reach for the handle. Make sure to let it cure fully before taking the car through a wash or into the rain.

Tip 2: Clean and Wax the Door Cup Before Installation

Once these guards are installed, the paint underneath them will be hidden for a long time. Before you bolt the handle back down, thoroughly clean the recessed door cup area with a wax and grease remover. Follow this up with a high-quality coat of carnauba wax or a ceramic sealant. This creates an extra layer of protection against any moisture or fine dust that might find its way between the stainless guard and the paint, preventing any potential "ghosting" or micro-abrasions over time. It is the best way to ensure the paint remains pristine underneath the accessory.

Tip 3: Inspect Your Door Handle Gaskets Simultaneously

Since you must remove the door handles to install these guards, this is the perfect time to inspect your door handle gaskets. If your current gaskets are cracked, flattened, or dry-rotted, they will not provide the necessary cushion or seal for the new stainless guards. Installing fresh rubber gaskets at the same time as these guards ensures a tight, leak-free fit and prevents metal-on-metal contact between the handle, the guard, and the door skin. This minor additional step results in a professional-grade finish that looks much cleaner than reusing old, distorted rubber.