OVERVIEW
Original thread-cutting retaining nut
The N-038-601-1 Genuine VW/Audi thread-cutting nut retains the original component at a size-5 mounting position. Its formed retaining section cuts its engagement into the matching mounting post during installation. This makes the mounting post condition and the original nut specification important when restoring a trim or body retaining attachment.
Technical details
- Original number: N-038-601-1 / N0386011.
- Catalog designation: size 5 thread-cutting nut.
- Design: formed hexagonal retaining section with a broad integral seating flange.
- Function: retention at the original mounting post that specifies this exact nut.
- Quantity: one nut; mounting posts, trim panels and other components are separate.
This retaining nut differs from a conventional machine-thread hex nut. Correct engagement depends on the intended post and the original retaining arrangement. Do not select it for an unrelated threaded bolt or substitute it for load-bearing chassis hardware. The mounting component and its original diagram determine the appropriate application.
Common reasons to replace
- Deformed retaining section: damaged formed threads can prevent the nut from gripping the mounting post correctly.
- Damaged flange: distortion can prevent the retaining nut from seating evenly.
- Missing hardware: restore an incomplete trim or body retaining connection after previous service.
- Corrosion: inspect exposed retainers and the mounting posts for deterioration.
- Component removal: replace the nut when its retaining engagement is damaged during disassembly or the repair procedure requires renewal.
A loose panel or retained component requires inspection of its complete mounting arrangement. A replacement nut cannot restore a broken post, damaged mounting hole or cracked component. Check the receiving post and seating area before fitting new retaining hardware.
Fitment data sheet
| Vehicle | Model years | Engine | Configuration | Application restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi 90 | 1993–1995 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | B4 Sedan; original retaining nut position; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Audi A4 | 1996–1998 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | B5 Sedan; Avant from 1998; original retaining nut position; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Audi Coupe quattro | 1990–1991 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | Coupe; original retaining nut position; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Audi R8 | 2017 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | Type 4S; original body retaining position; verify Coupe / Spyder attachment diagram; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Volkswagen Golf | 1993–1999 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | Mk3 hatchback; 1999 Mk3 body only; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Volkswagen Jetta | 1990–1992 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | Mk2 Sedan; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Volkswagen Jetta | 1994 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | Mk3 Sedan; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Volkswagen Passat | 1998–2005 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | B5 / B5.5 Sedan and Wagon; original retaining position; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Volkswagen Rabbit Pickup | 1980–1984 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | Mk1 pickup; original retaining position; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Volkswagen Rabbit Convertible | 1980–1983 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | Mk1 Convertible; original retaining position; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Volkswagen Cabrio | 1995–2002 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | Mk3 / Mk3.5 Cabrio; original retaining position; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Volkswagen Scirocco | 1982–1983 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | Mk2 Coupe; original retaining position; Transmission is not the selection criterion for the identified retaining position | Original size-5 retaining position specifying N-038-601-1. Match the original mounting post, component and exact diagram; model-year eligibility does not make this nut suitable for every attachment. |
| Volkswagen Golf | 1985–1992 | Body / trim retaining hardware; engine is not the selection criterion | Mk2 hatchback; original parcel-shelf support attachment; Transmission is not the selection criterion for this body attachment | Size-5 thread-cutting nut at the original parcel-shelf support mounting post specifying N-038-601-1. Match post diameter and attachment; this is not an ordinary reusable M5 machine nut. |
Installation and ordering guidance
Use the vehicle identification number and the original component diagram to confirm the exact retaining position. The listed model years identify catalog applications for this original number. The nut is position-specific, and a vehicle may use other retaining nuts with different dimensions or engagement styles.
Inspect the post and the retained component before installation. Seat the component in its intended position, start the retaining nut squarely and follow the factory procedure for the attachment. Avoid overtightening a formed retainer or forcing it onto an incompatible post, as this can damage the post or the component being retained.
After installation, check that the flange sits correctly and the retained component is secure. Count the retaining nuts required at the serviced positions, and order damaged mounting components separately. This listing supplies one individual nut.