Wheel Bolt Cap, Black, For Bee

OVERVIEW

Give your air-cooled Volkswagen that finished, showroom-quality look by replacing those unsightly, weathered, or rusted lug bolts with these premium EMPI Wheel Bolt Caps. Designed specifically for the late-model Type 1 Beetles and Super Beetles, these black caps provide a sleek and uniform appearance that instantly upgrades the aesthetic of your stock wheels. Whether you are performing a concours-level restoration or simply maintaining your daily driver, these caps serve as the perfect finishing touch, hiding the mechanical hardware and protecting your lug bolts from the harsh elements, road salt, and debris that often lead to seized bolts and unsightly surface corrosion. The deep black finish offers a modern, clean look that complements both original factory paint and custom wheel finishes alike.

Crafted from high-impact, UV-stabilized plastic, these bolt caps are engineered to withstand the rigors of the road while maintaining their snug fit and rich color. Unlike cheap universal alternatives that often rattle loose or crack under temperature fluctuations, these are modeled after the original Volkswagen factory specifications (Part Number 111-601-173). This ensures that the tolerances are exactly what your 1973 to 1979 Beetle requires for a secure, "click-in" installation. They are remarkably easy to installsimply press them over your existing 17mm hex lug boltsand they provide an effective barrier against moisture and grit. This protection is not just cosmetic; it makes future tire changes and brake service significantly easier by keeping the bolt heads clean and free of the grit that can cause sockets to slip and round off bolt corners.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1973, 1974
• Custom Applications: Any VW or aftermarket wheel utilizing standard 17mm hex head lug bolts.

SPECS

• Material: High-impact, UV-resistant nylon-composite plastic.
• Color/Finish: Satin Black for a factory-correct appearance.
• Internal Diameter: Precision molded for 17mm hex head bolts.
• OEM Reference: 111-601-173.
• Manufacturer Part Number: 98-6113-B.
• Quantity: Sold individually (Each).
• Installation Style: Friction-fit, push-on design.

PRO TIPS

1. Use the Right Removal Tool

While these caps are easy to press on by hand, removing them can be tricky without the right tool. We highly recommend using a dedicated plastic lug cap puller or a small wire hook tool. Avoid using a flathead screwdriver directly against your wheel, as it is incredibly easy to chip the paint or scratch the finish on your rims while prying. If you must use a screwdriver, wrap the tip in electrical tape or a thin microfiber cloth to provide a cushion between the tool and your wheel surface. Keeping the removal tool in your glovebox or with your spare tire kit will save you a lot of frustration during an unexpected roadside tire change.

2. Clean the Bolt Heads Before Installation

Before you snap your new black caps into place, take a moment to clean your lug bolts with a wire brush and a bit of degreaser. If the bolt heads are covered in old grease, rust scale, or road grime, the caps may not seat fully or could potentially vibrate off while driving. A clean bolt head ensures a maximum friction surface for the cap to "bite" onto. Additionally, applying a very light film of dry silicone lubricant to the inside of the cap can make future removal much smoother without attracting the dirt and dust that wet greases tend to collect.

3. Verify Your Bolt Head Size

In the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, many cars have been modified over the last 50 years. While 1973-up Type 1 models factory-equipped with 4-lug wheels typically use a 17mm hex head bolt, some aftermarket high-strength bolts or older 5-lug conversions might use 19mm heads. Before ordering your full set, quickly check your lug bolt size with a 17mm socket. If the socket fits snugly, these caps are the perfect match for your ride. Since these are sold individually, remember to order 16 pieces for a standard 4-lug Beetle to ensure every wheel looks consistent and professional.