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Rubber Plugs In A Beetle

Q. Hello Mr. Ciulla. I am wondering if you could shed some light on whether to remove underbody plugs. Does that allow any trapped moisture out/to dry, or does it invite moisture/road salt in? I have a new Beetle and want to keep it as long as possible from the damaging effects of weather. Thank you!

Angelo

A. If a rubber plug is installed in the underbody, the chances are real good they are there to prevent water and other junk from entering. A lot of times these plugs are installed as part of the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI). Some holes are there to accommodate the hold downs that are used during transport. Once the car has been delivered to the dealer they are no longer needed and the plugs are installed.

Sometimes there are plugs under the floorboards. These are for draining any water that may have entered the passenger compartment or trunk. These are rarely needed, but I have used them a few times to get water out of a flooded car.

Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA

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