Replacing VW Weatherstrip: Steps to Restore that Iconic Seal
Original Volkswagen seals last approximately 20 years. If your Air Cooled VW is missing that trademark air-tight seal, new weatherstrip is a must. Mid America Motorworks gives you the steps to replace worn and brittle weatherstrip, so your VW is prepared for Spring Showers.
You'll need a few basic tools to complete this project:
- Front Hood Weatherstrip
- Weatherstrip Tool Kit
- 13mm Wrench
- Silicone Grease
- Paintbrush
- Shop Towels
Seal the Deal
Although removing old weatherstrip and replacing it with new is similar on every part of your VW, there are some nuances involved around different parts. For this article, Mid America Motorworks will review the steps to replace weatherstrip on the front hood of a VW Beetle. Other areas require adhesive for proper installation.
Removal
- Using a 13 millimeter wrench, loosen the bolts on the hood. It isn't necessary to remove your hood, but we did for better visibility of this project.
- Leave the bolts loosely attached until you're ready to remove the hood completely. You'll want to ask a friend for assistance.
- To remove the weatherstrip, start in the top corner and pull up along the hood to remove from the channel. You may have to tug at the corners to get the channel to release the weatherstrip.
- Now pull the weatherstrip, moving down the hood to the front bumper.
- Repeat the same process on the other side of your Beetle.
- Use a dry paint brush or a rag to remove any debris from the channel.
- The weatherstrip channel may be uneven. Use the fork tool to make adjustments that even out the channel.
Installation
We recommend dry fitting all weatherstrip to your Volkswagen before applying with silicone grease to ensure that the fit and positioning are correct. It also gives you an idea of how the weatherstrip should be applied.
- Using the same paint brush, work silicone grease into the channel. This will make it easier to fit and position the new weatherstrip.
- To place the weatherstrip, start by securing the tips in the corner of the hood.
- Work the weatherstrip into the channel along the hood.
- You may need to use the fork tool again to make adjustments to the channel as you go.
- Once the weatherstrip is fitted across the hood, work the opposite tips into the corner as well.
- Work the weatherstrip down the hood to the front bumper, following along with your other hand to fit the weatherstrip into the channel.
- Repeat this process on the other side.
- You may need to trim excess weatherstrip from the front of your VW.
- Be sure to measure the weatherstrip against your VW for an accurate cut.
- Cut both sides so they meet in the middle of the hood, rather than the latch.
- If you removed your hood, now is the time to reattach it.
Ready to Ride
It is normal for the new weatherstrip to feel extra snug for the first few weeks, as it becomes secure in your VW hood. Apply a minimal amount of silicone grease to the surface of the weatherstrip to help ensure a strong seal with a long life.
Watch the complete VW Beetle Weatherstrip replacement here.
