Porsche 968 Body Molding Parts: A Complete Guide to Replacement and Upgrades

Restoring or maintaining a Porsche 968 often comes down to the details. Body moldings – the trim strips running along the sides, bumpers, and windows – play a huge role in the car's appearance and aerodynamics. Whether you need to replace a cracked side molding or upgrade to a more aggressive look, understanding your options for Porsche 968 body molding parts is essential.

Why Body Moldings Matter on the Porsche 968

The 968 was Porsche’s last front-engine, water-cooled four-cylinder model, built from 1992 to 1995. Its body moldings are not just decorative; they serve several functions:

• Protection: Side moldings protect the doors and fenders from parking lot dings.
• Aerodynamics: Front bumper and rocker panel moldings help manage airflow.
• Style: The black rubber or painted moldings define the car's visual lines.

Over time, these parts can fade, crack, or become brittle. Replacing them restores both appearance and function.

Types of Porsche 968 Body Molding Parts

Side Moldings

These run along the doors and rear quarter panels. They come in two main varieties:

• Original Equipment (OE) Style: Made of rubber or vinyl, usually textured black or body-colored.
• Aftermarket Performance: Often made of polyurethane or ABS plastic, sometimes with a gloss finish.

Front Bumper Moldings

These include the lower lip spoiler and the trim around the fog lights. The 968’s front bumper is composite, but the moldings are separate parts that can be replaced individually.

Rear Bumper Moldings

The rear bumper has a lower valance and side trim pieces. These are common to crack on earlier cars.

Window and Roof Moldings

The windshield and rear window are surrounded by rubber/chrome trim. Roof drip rail moldings are also available.

Rocker Panel Moldings

These run under the doors between the wheel wells. They are often the first to rust or crack.

OEM vs. Aftermarket: What’s Best for Your 968?

Original Porsche Parts (OEM)

• Fit: Perfect, no modifications needed.
• Quality: Same materials as original, known durability.
• Cost: Higher, often double or triple aftermarket.
• Availability: Some parts are discontinued; check with Porsche dealers or specialist suppliers.

Aftermarket Parts

• Fit: Usually good, but may require minor trimming or painting.
• Quality: Varies. High-end aftermarket can match OEM; cheap ones may warp.
• Cost: 30-50% less than OEM.
• Variety: Gloss black, carbon fiber look, or custom colors.

Recommendation: For a concours restoration, use OEM. For a daily driver or track car, quality aftermarket is fine.

Materials Comparison

| Material | Pros | Cons | |----------|------|------| | Rubber/Vinyl | Flexible, OEM look, paintable | Fades, crazes over time | | Polyurethane | Durable, impact resistant | Heavier, may need painting | | ABS Plastic | Light, cheap, smooth | Brittle in cold, UV sensitive | | Fiberglass | Can be molded into custom shapes | Requires prep/paint, can crack |

For side moldings, many owners prefer rubber or PU. For bumper lips, PU is popular because it flexes instead of cracking.

How to Choose the Right Body Molding for Your 968

Consider these factors before buying:

1. Model Year: 1992-1993 vs 1994-1995 have slightly different bumper moldings. Check compatibility.
2. Paint Code: If you need painted parts, get the correct color code or plan to have them painted.
3. Existing Condition: If your car has rust or damage behind the moldings, address that first.
4. Usage: Track cars may benefit from lightweight or aerodynamic pieces; show cars need perfect fit.

Common Fitment Issues with Aftermarket

• Side moldings may be shorter by a few millimeters.
• Clip holes may not align exactly – you may need to drill new ones.
• Rocker moldings may lack the correct curve for the 968’s shape.

Always check customer fitment notes from the supplier. Many reputable sellers provide fitment guarantee.

Step-by-Step Installation Tips

Replacing body moldings on a 968 is moderate DIY work. Here’s a general process:

1. Remove old molding: Use a trim removal tool to pop off clips. Apply heat (hair dryer) if adhesive is used.
2. Clean the surface: Remove all old double-sided tape and adhesive residue. Use alcohol or adhesive remover.
3. Test fit the new part: Before applying adhesive or pushing clips, make sure it aligns.
4. Apply adhesives if needed: Some moldings use 3M tape; others use clips only. Follow manufacturer instructions.
5. Secure and let set: Press firmly and, if tape is used, hold for 30 seconds. Avoid car washes for 24 hours.

Tools You’ll Need

• Trim removal tools
• Heat gun or hair dryer
• Isopropyl alcohol and clean rags
• Adhesive promoter (for tape)
• New clips (often break during removal)

Where to Buy Porsche 968 Body Molding Parts

Avoid marketplaces; instead, consider these sources:

• Porsche Specialists: Online retailers focused on air-cooled and water-cooled Porsches often stock OEM and quality aftermarket parts.
• Classic Parts Dealers: Companies like Pelican Parts, ECS Tuning, or Design911 carry full lines.
• Local Body Shops: Some can order from their suppliers.

Pricing Expectations:

• Side molding set (4 doors): $200–$500
• Front bumper lip: $150–$400
• Rear valance: $100–$300
• Window moldings: $50–$150 each

Practical Final Recommendation

For most Porsche 968 owners, a balanced approach works best:

• Use OEM for visible exterior moldings (side door strips, front bumper lip) if you care about originality.
• Use high-quality aftermarket for rocker panels and hidden pieces, saving money without sacrificing durability.
• Always buy new clips – they’re cheap and prevent rattles.
• If your car is a track or weekend toy, consider PU or polyurethane moldings for extra durability.

Before you purchase, confirm the exact part number for your car’s VIN. Many 968 parts are shared with the 944 but not always. A quick call to a Porsche specialist can avoid a return.

Restoring the body moldings on your Porsche 968 is one of the most rewarding upgrades – it transforms the car’s look immediately. Invest in quality parts, take your time with installation, and your 968 will look factory fresh for years to come.