Iconic Volkswagen Bus That Survived LA Wildfire Returns Fully Restored

A vintage blue Volkswagen Microbus named “Azul” has been fully restored months after becoming a viral symbol of resilience when it survived the deadly Palisades Fire in Malibu.

First captured in a striking AP photo that showed the bus standing almost untouched among a neighborhood of charred ruins, Azul caught the attention of Volkswagen, which reached out to the owner and offered to help.

Despite surviving the flames, the 1977 Type 2 Microbus suffered hidden smoke damage, rust, blistered paint, and heat-broken windows.

Volkswagen technicians spent months sourcing rare parts, working with the VW enthusiast community, and bringing the bus back to life.

The emotional reveal at the LA Auto Show left the owners stunned, celebrating the return of a vehicle they assumed was gone forever—now restored and ready to hit the road again.