Hi Guy's Have any of you successfully removed these vents without damage? Please share your process. Thanks


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They should pop right out with a screwdriver or pick. looks like you’ve got some paint overspray that has probably “glued” them. Possibly some rust holding them in too.

Old brittle plastic may crack - reproductions available

and I wouldnt worry about breaking them, they have overspray and are probably damaged anyways

10 bucks each from 914 rubber

https://914rubber.com/door-jamb-air-vent-grille-1-1

Isn't it possible to reach in from the back and push it out ?

There is a prong that holds the "filter" that is often brittle, so be careful not to break it. It's possible as long as they were not glued in or rusted in.

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So what exactly is the purpose of this part? What does it vent and is it necessary?

It's necessary to fill the hole. That's really about it.

Seriously, with the windows up and top on maybe there are enough pressure changes with speed changes that a vent makes the cockpit more comfortable. I really can't see the Germans doing more than they "had" to on the entry level cars. I've found there usually is a reason for what they do.

Ventilation systems always need a vent when glass is up and roof is on. Otherwise you end up trying to pressurize a box. Once the box is pressurized actual airflow will stagnate.

Yes the 70s vintage door seals and window seals are pretty leaky vs modern seals but none the less, cabin would quickly pressurize and stagnate making the defrost and heating system way less effective if not vented.

And if you have good seals that are adjusted and tight, closing a door with the windows up and top on without vents to relieve the pressure would not be a good thing. Even with 70s style seals, my car is tight enough you can feel the pressure bubble when a door is shut.

Early cars didn’t have the plastic vent. The holes were left open.

And as for what it vents, the duct runs from behind the padded back pad inside the cabin to this vent that is on the other side of the door seal to equalize cabin pressure with the outside.

Also, the cabin heats better in the winter with venting.

What years would that include?

Thank you,
Peter

Thank you for the information