Rear Hatch Hinge Cover, Left or Right, Fits Bus 68-79, Each

OVERVIEW

When you are deep into a restoration project on a classic Bay Window Bus, it is often the smallest details that make the biggest impact on the final result. These Rear Hatch Hinge Covers are the perfect solution for finishing off your interior with that factory-fresh look. Over the decades, the original plastic covers on 1968 through 1979 Type 2 models tend to become incredibly brittle due to UV exposure and temperature fluctuations. They often crack, yellow, or simply go missing, leaving your rear hatch hinges exposed and unsightly. By replacing these worn-out components, you instantly elevate the cleanliness of your rear cargo area and ensure that your Volkswagen looks as good as it did when it first rolled off the assembly line in Wolfsburg or Hanover.

Manufactured by EMPI, a name synonymous with quality air-cooled VW parts for over half a century, these covers are designed to be a direct replacement for the original units. They are molded from high-quality white plastic that offers the correct texture and profile to match the vintage aesthetic of your Bus. Because these covers are non-directional, they can be used on either the left or the right side of the rear hatch, providing maximum flexibility for your repair. Whether you are building a concours-level show winner or just trying to make your daily driver camper a little more presentable, these hinge covers are an essential finishing touch that prevents snagging on headliners or cargo while providing a streamlined, professional appearance to your rear hatch assembly.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Models Covered: Kombi, Microbus, Deluxe, Westfalia Campers, and Panel Vans

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 98-8696-0
• Material: Injection-Molded High-Impact Plastic
• Color: Factory White / Off-White
• Orientation: Universal (Fits Left or Right Side)
• Quantity: Sold Individually (Each)
• Application: Rear Hatch Hinge Protection and Aesthetics
• Weight: Approximately 0.12 lbs

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Order in Pairs for a Uniform Look. While these are sold individually to accommodate those who might only have one broken cover, we always recommend replacing both the left and right sides at the same time. Plastic ages at different rates, and a brand-new bright white cover next to a 40-year-old yellowed one will stand out immediately. By installing a fresh pair, you ensure the color and finish match perfectly across the rear of your Bus, maintaining a symmetrical and professional interior appearance.

Tip 2: Custom Color Matching. These covers come in a standard white plastic finish which is correct for most stock interiors. However, if you have a custom interior or a specific color scheme in your Westfalia, these covers can be easily painted. We suggest using a high-quality plastic adhesion promoter followed by a vinyl or plastic-specific spray paint. This allows you to match your headliner or interior trim panels perfectly without worrying about the paint flaking off the smooth plastic surface over time.

Tip 3: Gentle Installation is Key. When installing these covers, don''t force them onto the hinge mechanism. Ensure the hatch is in the correct position to allow the cover to slide over the hinge pivot points without stress. If you are working in a cold climate, the plastic can be slightly less flexible; warming the covers slightly with a hair dryer or letting them sit in the sun for a few minutes before installation can make them more pliable and significantly reduce the risk of snapping the mounting tabs during the process.