VW Hubcaps, 4-Bolts, Large VW Emblem, Made in Mexico, (251601151A-L)

Fits:

• VW Type 1: 1968 – 1974
• VW Type 2: 1971 – 1979
• VW Type 3: 1966 – 1973
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1967 – 1974
• VW Super Beetle: 1971 – 1976

VW Hubcap, Large VW Emblem, Made in Mexico, 251601151A-L.

(fitment years are merely suggestive, as modifications and specific vehicle models may or may not be different, if you have any questions regarding fitment, send us an email at: info@kairousinc.com)

Overview of Hubcap

Hubcaps are one of the simplest and most important parts of your VW. Not to be confused with rims, which are the shiny outer surface of your wheel, hub caps cover the center of your wheel and protect the spindle nut and fasteners from dirt, salt, road debris and moisture.

They also help keep your wheels looking good and preventing corrosion. There are two main types of hubcaps depending on how they are attached full-size hubcaps that snap or bolt on and smaller cover that is placed on the center of a wheel hub called a wheel center cap.

A wheel center cap is a small disk made of plastic or metal that is placed in the middle of your VW’s wheels. It hides the center of the wheel and its lug nuts, keeps dirt and moisture away from the wheel bearings, and is usually adorned with a VW emblem to show off your vehicle pride.

Types and Designs

When you look at the wheels on your VW, you might notice a small disc right in the middle. That’s your wheel center cap, and it’s one of the most important parts of the entire rim assembly.

There are two main types of hubcaps: bolt-on and clip-on. Bolt-on hubcaps attach to the rim using bolts and lug nuts. They can be a bit difficult to install and they can get loose over time. Alternatively, clip-on hubcaps slot into a groove that’s already provided for them on the wheel.

The latter type of hubcap is typically more secure and durable than the former. However, some people might confuse the terms “wheel center cap” and “wheel cover” While hubcaps protect the center of a wheel hub, wheel covers offer additional protection for the whole surface area of a rim. Blackburn carries only authentic OEM solutions like hubcaps that meet specific design requirements to ensure a secure fit and an authentic appearance.

Volkswagen (VW) hubcaps are an essential component of a vehicle’s wheel system. They serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing protection to the wheel and adding a stylish touch to the overall appearance of the vehicle. Hubcaps come in various types and designs each catering to different preferences and requirements.

Types of Hubcaps

Full Wheel Covers

One of the most common types of hubcaps is the full wheel cover. These hubcaps fully enclose the entire wheel, offering maximum protection from dirt, dust and debris. They are typically made of durable materials such as plastic or metal, and they fit snugly over the wheel, securing in place with clips or a retaining ring. Full wheel covers often feature the VW logo or emblem, adding brand recognition to the vehicle’s appearance. They provide a sleek and uniform look to the wheels.

Center Caps

Another popular type is the center cap. These hubcaps cover only the center portion of the wheel, leaving the outer rim exposed. Center caps are often designed with the VW logo prominently displayed. They add a touch of sophistication and elegance to the wheel while allowing the rim to be visible. Center caps are commonly used in conjunction with alloy wheels to showcase their design and finish.

Trim Rings

Trim rings are an additional accessory that can be added to hubcaps. They are circular metal rings that fit onto the outer edge of the hubcap, giving the wheel a more finished and defined appearance. Trim rings are available in various sizes and styles, allowing customization options to match the vehicle’s overall aesthetic. They are particularly popular for classic VW models, adding a vintage and nostalgic touch to the wheel design.

Designs of Hubcaps

Classic VW Logo

The classic VW logo is a timeless design that is widely used on hubcaps. The logo features a bold “V” sitting on top of a “W,” representing the brand’s initials. This iconic emblem is instantly recognizable and adds a touch of authenticity to the vehicle. It is often displayed in the center of the hubcap, creating a focal point that draws attention to the wheels.

Custom Graphics

Hubcaps also offer the opportunity for custom graphics. These designs can range from intricate patterns to personalized images or even branding. Custom graphics allow VW owners to express their individuality and make their vehicles stand out from the crowd. Whether it’s a unique pattern, a favorite quote, or a company logo, custom graphics on hubcaps add a personal touch to the overall design.

Metallic Finishes

Many hubcaps come with metallic finishes, such as chrome or brushed aluminum. These finishes add a sleek and modern look to the wheels, enhancing the vehicle’s overall appearance. Metallic hubcaps are often used on sportier VW models to convey a sense of style and performance. The reflective nature of the finish also helps to catch and reflect light, creating an eye-catching effect.

Features and Materials

Hubcaps are essentially wheel covers that cover the hub of your VW wheels. They protect the wheel from dirt, debris and road salt. Hubcaps can also improve your car’s aesthetic appeal. They are usually made from metal, and they can be engraved with logos or center cap design specific to the vehicle brand.

A hubcap can make your VW Beetle look sleek and stylish. However, you have to be careful in choosing the right hubcaps for your vehicle. You will have to consider the materials used in making the hubcaps, the color scheme and the type of finish.

The material of the hubcap is important because it determines how durable and long-lasting they will be. Metals such as nickel and copper are ideal for manufacturing hubcaps because they can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. These materials can also be easily polished, brushed or bead-blasted.

Installing and Removing

Hubcaps might seem like a trivial part of your VW, but they play an important role. The wheel center cap protects the spindle nut and wheel bearing from impurities such as road salt moisture and dirt. This reduces vibration of the wheel and keeps the wheel aligned to the hub.

A missing hubcap exposes your wheel to damage and can lead to corrosion and seal failure. Replacing it is recommended to ensure proper functionality of your vehicle.

It is easy to install or remove a VW hubcap using the factory style wheel cover removal tool. This hubcap puller tools has 2 legs that are inserted into the holes on the edge of the hubcap and is braced against the wheel with a tire iron to pry it off. Alternatively, you can also use a regular screw driver.

Care and Maintenance

If you have a VW Beetle, the hubcaps that are attached to its wheels can be easily damaged by hitting or scraping them. While a missing hubcap is an aesthetic problem, it also leaves your wheels susceptible to damage from road debris and impurities that can clog the wheel bearings.

A damaged or missing hubcap can allow dirt and moisture to build up inside the wheel’s bolt cavities, which can lead to corrosion, damage and failure of the lug nuts and bolts. For this reason, it’s important to maintain your hubcaps to extend their life.

To do so, start by removing the wheel covers and cleaning them thoroughly with a metal cleaner. It’s recommended that you scrub, rinse, dry and then wax your hubcaps to keep them looking like new.

Where to Buy

A hubcap is a full-size wheel cover that snaps or bolts onto your vehicle’s wheels. It conceals the center of a wheel and its lug nuts and offers protection from road salt, dirt, moisture and other contaminants. Hub caps also improve the appearance of your VW. You can buy a VW hubcap online or from Kairous Inc. You may also find other Volkswagen parts such as hub caps, hub cover clips, and hub cap pullers at a classic VW Beetle parts dealer you can get free shipping vouchers.

A hubcap is different from a rim, which holds the tire firmly to the wheel. Rims are usually made of a durable metal like steel, while hubcaps are plastic or aluminum disks. Hubcaps protect the wheel bearing and spindle nut from impurities, but they do not reduce wheel vibration or add style to a vehicle.