VW Beetle Running Boards — EMPI Billet-Look Aluminum, Satin Black with Polished Edge, Vintage Style, Pair | Beetle & Super Beetle (15-3018-0)
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EMPI Billet-Look Aluminum Running Boards — Satin Black, Polished Edge, Pair (15-3018-0)
EMPI 15-3018-0 is a left and right pair of billet-look running boards in thick extruded aluminum with a satin black powder coat and polished edge, for the VW Type 1 Beetle sedan and convertible (EMPI: 12/1947 through 12/1986), with the Super Beetle 1971–1979 dealer-listed. They replace rotting rubber-over-steel boards, won't rust, and include the mounting hardware.
Part numbers: EMPI 15-3018-0 · 15-3018 · UPC 707924460087
Fitment
| Years | Vehicle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1947–1986 | VW Beetle sedan and convertible | Confirmed in EMPI price file (12/1947 – 12/1986) |
| 1971–1979 | VW Super Beetle | Dealer-listed (JBugs, Moore Parts); not confirmed by EMPI |
| Does not fit | Karmann Ghia, Type 3, Bus, Thing, fiberglass-bodied buggies | These don't use Beetle running boards |
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part number | EMPI 15-3018-0 |
| Material | Thick extruded aluminum |
| Finish | Satin black powder coat with polished edge, vintage style |
| Tread | Ribbed tread surface |
| Sold as | Pair (left and right) |
| UPC | 707924460087 |
| Country of origin | Mexico |
| Shipping weight | 8.5 lb |
| Package dimensions | 56 x 7 x 3 in |
What's Included
- Left and right running boards
- Mounting hardware
Why It Matters
Stock rubber-over-steel running boards rot from the inside, and the rubber peels off them. Thick extruded aluminum is stiffer than thin stamped boards, so it doesn't flex when you step on it, and with no steel core under the powder coat there is nothing to rust. The satin black keeps them from looking like a chrome catalog part while the polished edge picks up the trim line of the car.
Installation Notes
Loosen the front and rear fender bolts nearest the board before you fit it, to give room to slide the board into the fender lips.
Put new fender beading in at the same time. Old beading that is cracked will stop the board from sitting flush.
Test-fit each board before you tighten anything. Some cars need a small trim at the ends for a clean line.
Tighten the body-side hardware last, then re-snug the fender bolts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the EMPI 15-3018-0 running boards fit a 1967 VW Beetle?
Yes. EMPI lists these for the VW Type 1 Beetle from 12/1947 through 12/1986, which covers a 1967 sedan or convertible.
Do these running boards fit a Super Beetle?
Dealers list the Super Beetle (1971–1979) as well, since it shares the Beetle running-board mounting. EMPI's own listing says Type 1, so treat the Super Beetle as dealer-confirmed.
Is mounting hardware included with the running boards?
Yes. EMPI includes the mounting hardware needed to install the pair, left and right.
Will aluminum running boards rust?
No. They are extruded aluminum under a powder-coat finish, so there is no steel to rust the way a stock board's core does.
Do I have to trim anything to fit them?
Sometimes. Expect to loosen the fender bolts to line them up, and on some cars trim the fender beading or the board ends slightly for a tight fit.
How do the running boards ship?
As a long parcel (8.5 lb, 56 x 7 x 3 in box). It is not hazmat and has no ground-only restriction.
Explore Related Categories
Dressing up the outside of your Bug? Browse Body Panels & Sheet Metal, Accessories, the full EMPI Parts catalog, and everything for the VW Beetle and Super Beetle.
Prop 65 Warning
⚠ WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. All parts legal for use on pre-pollution controlled vehicles only.
