OVERVIEW
Genuine VW/Audi downpipe hanger bracket, part number 1K0-253-144-AE. This lower exhaust support secures the front pipe assembly at its assigned mounting points. The bracket supports the matching converter/downpipe assembly while its resilient inserts accommodate movement and reduce direct vibration transfer at that connection.
Technical details
- Original part number: 1K0-253-144-AE / 1K0253144AE.
- Metal support bracket with two resilient inserts and end mounting openings, as shown in the source photos.
- Factory lower converter / downpipe support for the listed assemblies.
- Supplied as one bracket assembly. Bolts, exhaust pipe and other hangers are separate.
- Match the support's shape, mounting points and exhaust attachment arrangement; the same vehicle can use several different exhaust brackets.
Common reasons to replace
A bent bracket, damaged mounting opening or split, worn or displaced insert can reduce support at the front exhaust connection. Replacement may be appropriate after impact damage, corrosion or exhaust service that reveals a deteriorated mounting assembly.
Rattling, unusual exhaust movement or vibration felt through the body warrants inspection of the support and its adjoining hardware. Check the other hangers, heat shields and pipe clearance as well. A new bracket will not correct a misaligned exhaust or repair a damaged mounting point elsewhere.
Installation and service notes
Let the exhaust cool and support the pipe before removing its bracket. Compare the replacement with the original, check the mounting surfaces and inspect the fasteners. Confirm that the mating exhaust connection and other supports are sound before reassembly.
Install the support in its factory orientation and align the pipe without stretching the inserts or using the bracket to force the exhaust into position. Tighten the required hardware to the vehicle-specific specification. Check clearance and verify that the pipe is securely supported without contact against nearby components.
Fitment
| Vehicle | Model years | Engine | Support assignment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Golf | 2015 | 1.8L turbo gasoline | Front-wheel-drive hatchback; lower converter support |
| Volkswagen Golf SportWagen | 2015 | 1.8L turbo gasoline | Front-wheel-drive wagon; not diesel support hardware |
| Volkswagen Golf Alltrack | 2017 | 1.8L turbo gasoline | 4Motion wagon; lower converter support |
| Volkswagen GTI | 2018; 2020 | 2.0L turbo gasoline | Lower converter / downpipe support |
| Audi A3 | 2015 | 1.8L turbo gasoline | Sedan or Cabriolet; front-wheel drive; not diesel bracket |
| Audi A3 quattro | 2015 | 2.0L turbo gasoline | Matching factory lower exhaust support |
| Audi S3 | 2015 | 2.0L turbo gasoline | Quattro sedan; matching factory lower exhaust support |
Confirm the original support and mounting arrangement before ordering, particularly with aftermarket exhaust components.