Surely, just about the most improbable success stories of the last century is the Volkswagen Beetle. Not only was it conceived and produced under the aegis of the most hated man in history, it was thought to have no allure whatsoever to the average driver. It was held in so much contempt by American manufacturers that Ford pronounced it “not worth a damn” when offered the captured German manufacturing plant and its contents free of charge. The fact that foreign car restoration professionals were few in number was almost not a consideration at the time, since post-war patriotism caused an explosion of American automotive inventiveness.

However, because of innovative advertising and an amazing Public Relations promotion, together with a series of Disney movies starring the odd little car, Beetle sales went from two units in 1949 to becoming the most popular car ever sold by 1955. Its simplicity of design made auto maintenance basically uncomplicated and inexpensive, while its low sticker price combined with solid functionality made it an instant favorite of the emerging anti-establishment community, soon to be known as “hippies”.

Whether it was the VW’s durability or identification with the hip lifestyle or a combination of factors, the Beetle and its big brother, the VW van garnered a level of loyalty seldom seen in the motor vehicle world. All manner of traditions have sprung up around it: one always honked when a fellow owner drove into view and the “vee-dub punch” continues to be delivered to this day.

This remarkable brand allegiance persists unabated, with owners of early Beetles and buses keeping them on the highway regardless of their often battered appearance, with the assistance of Volkswagen service and repair shops. Others whose first car was a Bug have persisted as Volkswagen owners, trading them in for newer, often much fancier designs as they become available; the brand holds its value better than almost any other car, foreign or domestic and knowledgeable service people devoted to the brand continue to tend to them.

One of the few things that may cause issues is the rear-mounted air-cooled engine which powered the iconic auto. Since most American-made cars are water-cooled, it takes a mechanic who is an expert in air-cooled engine maintenance and restoration to deal with these engines properly. Because air-cooled engines get hotter than the water-cooled type, they tend to wear out more quickly and therefore require an auto repair specialist who understands how to maintain the cooling system in good condition. An auto mechanic who does foreign car servicing is a good choice, although one who loves Volkswagens as much as their owners do is probably the best bet for its total care and longevity.

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If you need foreign car servicing in Denver Author Stephen Daniels recommends the mechanics at Sixth Avenue Auto. They specialize in working on Audis and Volkswagens, but also service domestic cars. All work at this trustworthy neighborhood shop is performed by ASE-certified technicians.

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