Door Hinge Screw Plugs, for Beetle & Bus 68-79, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

When you are finishing up a high-quality restoration on your air-cooled classic, it is the smallest details that often speak the loudest. These EMPI Door Hinge Screw Plugs are designed to provide that crisp, factory-fresh appearance that distinguishes a well-maintained Volkswagen from a project in progress. Over the decades, original plugs often become brittle, crack, or disappear entirely, leaving your door hinge hardware exposed to the elements and looking unfinished. By installing these high-quality replacements, you are not just improving the aesthetics of your door jambs; you are also providing a vital barrier against moisture and road grime that can lead to corrosion in the screw heads and the hinge pillar itself. Whether you are building a weekend cruiser or a points-judged show car, these plugs are the essential finishing touch for a professional-grade assembly that honors the original design of your vehicle.

Manufactured from a durable, UV-resistant polymer, these plugs are engineered to withstand the constant opening and closing of doors as well as the extreme temperature fluctuations common in automotive environments. They fit snugly into the countersunk screw heads of 1968 and later Beetles and Transporters, ensuring they won''t vibrate loose during transit or pop out over time. At Appletree Auto, we know that nothing ruins a clean paint job like rusty hardware or unsightly empty holes in the door pillars. These plugs offer a cost-effective and immediate way to refresh your door areas without the need for specialized tools or extensive mechanical knowledge. Since they are sold individually, you have the flexibility to replace just one lost cap or purchase a full set to complete your entire vehicle restoration project with factory-correct accuracy.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle (Standard): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• VW Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• VW Bus (Type 2 / Bay Window): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• VW Type 3 (Fastback, Squareback, Notchback): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 98-2042-0
• OEM Reference Number: 111-831-449A
• Material: High-density, UV-stabilized black plastic
• Finish: Matte black, textured to match original factory specifications
• Installation Type: Press-fit (Snap-in)
• Application: Covers the large countersunk Phillips-head hinge screws
• Quantity: Sold Each (1 unit)

PRO TIPS

1. Clean the Screw Recess Thoroughly

Before snapping your new plugs into place, ensure that the Phillips-head recess of the hinge screw is completely free of old wax, dirt, or grease. Over the years, these areas collect debris that can prevent the plug from seating flush against the screw head. Use a small pick or a Q-tip with a bit of degreaser to clean the center of the screw. A clean mounting surface ensures that the plug stays securely in place and doesn''t sit "high," which could lead to it being knocked loose by the door seal or clothing as you enter and exit the vehicle.

2. Check Your Required Quantity

Don''t make the mistake of only ordering one if you are doing a full restoration! Most Beetles require four plugs per door (two per hinge) for a total of eight per car, while Buses and other models may vary depending on the hinge configuration. We recommend counting the exposed screws on your specific vehicle before placing your order. It is always a smart idea to order one or two extras to keep in your glovebox; these small parts are easily lost during maintenance or if someone accidentally brushes against them while they aren''t fully seated.

3. Use Gentle Pressure for Installation

While it might be tempting to use a hammer or a screwdriver handle to seat these plugs, you should only use firm thumb pressure or a soft rubber mallet. The plastic is durable but can be marred or "whitened" if struck with a hard metal tool. If the plug feels particularly stubborn due to cold weather, you can soak it in warm water for a few minutes to make the plastic more pliable before installation. This ensures a perfect, snap-fit seal without damaging the finish of the plug or the surrounding paint on your door hinge.