Will this rear side window seal with groove fit my Vanagon, and does it matter what year or model I have?

Yes, this window seal is designed to fit all 1980-1991 Vanagon models, including 2WD, 4WD, Automatic, Manual, and Westfalia configurations. As long as your vehicle falls within these years, this quality aftermarket seal will work perfectly for your rear side windows.

What is the purpose of the groove in this window seal, and do I need special molding to install it?

The groove in this window seal was originally designed to accommodate a chrome molding strip that came from the factory. Since this chrome molding is now obsolete, most people install the seal as-is without the molding. You do not need any special molding to use this seal, and it will work and look great whether you fill the groove or leave it unfilled.

How difficult is it to install this window seal, and do you have any tips to make installation easier?

Installing this window seal can be tricky, especially if you're not experienced with window seals. Professional installation is recommended, but if you're a confident DIYer, warming up the seal (such as by letting it sit in the sun) will make it much more flexible and easier to fit. Make sure both the glass and body are clean, use a soapy water solution for lubrication, and work slowly to ensure a good fit and a leak-free seal.

rectangular automotive window gasket seal on white background

Black automotive rubber weatherstrip seal on white background

Close-up of black rubber automotive weatherstrip seal on white background

Line drawing of a VW Vanagon side view with rear side window highlighted in red outline

Thumbnail of rectangular automotive window gasket seal on white background

Thumbnail of Black automotive rubber weatherstrip seal on white background

Thumbnail of Close-up of black rubber automotive weatherstrip seal on white background

Thumbnail of Line drawing of a VW Vanagon side view with rear side window highlighted in red outline

Joint de fenêtre avec rainure - Côté arrière R/L [Vanagon]

Product:	255-845-341
Works With:	1980-1991
Manufacturer:	Quality Aftermarket
Restock ETA:
Availability:

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Proposition 65: This product may contain chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Joint de vitre latérale arrière avec rainure. Fabriqué en Allemagne. Installation professionnelle fortement recommandée.

Remarque : Ces joints comportent une rainure pour la moulure chromée désormais obsolète.

Si vous ne savez pas ce que signifie « avec groove » ou « sans groove », veuillez lire cet article pour plus de clarté.

Conseil d'installation : ces joints de fenêtre sont beaucoup plus faciles à installer lorsqu'ils font 80 degrés ou plus. Installez-la sur du verre, installez votre corde et laissez-la reposer au soleil ou réchauffez-la avec un pistolet thermique pour de meilleurs résultats.

Reference numbers can be OE part numbers, superseded part numbers, and compatible part numbers. We provide this information to help ensure you're getting the right part for your needs.