OVERVIEW
Original M10x50 bolt for specified mounting connections
The N-040-240-4 Genuine VW/Audi hex head bolt is used at the original mounting positions identified below. Confirmed applications include the rear sway-bar end-link attachment on listed Audi B5 quattro models the upper downpipe-hanger attachment on the listed automatic-transmission Volkswagen Passat, and the front exhaust-pipe support on the listed automatic-transmission Audi S4. The same original hardware number serves different joints, so the fastening position and configuration must be matched before ordering.
Technical details
- Original number: N-040-240-4 / N0402404.
- Nominal thread diameter: M10.
- Specified length: 50 mm.
- Head design: external hex.
- Quantity: one bolt; nuts, washers, end links, hangers and brackets are separate items.
Match both the bolt specification and original joint. Nominal diameter and length do not define a universal tightening value or make the bolt suitable for every M10 mounting position. Preserve the factory washer, sleeve and nut arrangement where those components are specified.
Common reasons to replace
- Rounded head: worn or damaged wrenching surfaces can prevent controlled tightening and removal.
- Thread damage: corrosion, cross-threading or damage from a seized mating nut can make the old bolt unsuitable for reassembly.
- Missing or incorrect hardware: an earlier suspension or exhaust repair may leave an incomplete connection or a substitute fastener.
- Attachment service: inspect the bolt during end-link or downpipe-hanger replacement and follow the repair procedure’s hardware-renewal requirements.
A suspension clunk may involve an end link, bushing or another joint rather than the bolt alone. An exhaust rattle or loose hanger may also involve a sleeve, bracket or rubber support. Inspect the complete attachment and replace damaged adjoining components instead of expecting new hardware to correct those faults.
Fitment data sheet
| Vehicle | Model years | Engine | Configuration | Application restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi A4 | 1996–1997 | 2.8L 12-valve V6 gasoline | B5 Sedan; quattro; No separate transmission restriction at this suspension attachment | Rear sway-bar end-link-to-rear-spindle fastening; original 12-valve engine configuration only. Requires the original N-040-240-4 specification at that attachment. |
| Audi A4 | 1997–2001 | 1.8L turbo gasoline | B5 Sedan / Avant; quattro; Avant from 1998; No separate transmission restriction at this suspension attachment | Rear sway-bar end-link-to-rear-spindle fastening. Requires the original N-040-240-4 specification at that attachment. |
| Audi A4 | 1998–2001 | 2.8L 30-valve V6 gasoline | B5 Sedan / Avant; quattro; No separate transmission restriction at this suspension attachment | Rear sway-bar end-link-to-rear-spindle fastening; confirm original rear suspension. Requires the original N-040-240-4 specification at that attachment. |
| Audi S4 | 2000–2002 | 2.7L twin-turbo V6 gasoline | B5 Sedan / Avant; quattro; Avant from 2001; No separate transmission restriction at this suspension attachment | Rear sway-bar end-link-to-rear-spindle fastening. Requires the original N-040-240-4 specification at that attachment. |
| Volkswagen Passat | 1998–2005 | 1.8L turbo gasoline | B5 / B5.5 Sedan / Wagon; front-wheel drive; Automatic transmission only | Secures the upper portion of the original downpipe hanger. Excludes manual-transmission hanger arrangement and different aftermarket supports. Requires the original N-040-240-4 specification at that attachment. |
| Audi S4 | 2001 | 2.7L twin-turbo V6 gasoline; APB | B5 Sedan / Avant; quattro; Automatic transmission only | Original front exhaust-pipe / catalyst support, illustration 253-78 position 11. M10×50 bolt used with spacer sleeve 4A0-253-205-E and washer N-904-769-01; one per illustrated assembly. Does not establish manual-transmission exhaust support fitment. |
Installation and ordering guidance
On the listed 2001 automatic-transmission S4, the exhaust application uses this bolt at the front pipe and catalyst support with the specified spacer sleeve and washer. Retain the correct support stack and inspect the rubber bushings and bracket while the exhaust is supported. This exhaust position has a different configuration from the rear suspension joint.
For the listed Audi suspension applications, use this bolt only at the original rear sway-bar end-link-to-spindle position. The sway-bar bracket fasteners are different hardware. Check the original end link and rear suspension arrangement before ordering.
For the listed Passat exhaust application, the bolt secures the upper downpipe hanger on the automatic-transmission arrangement. The lower hanger bolt is a different part, and the manual-transmission support arrangement must be checked separately. Order the quantity required by the specific attachment.
Follow the factory instructions for vehicle support, joint assembly, hardware replacement and final tightening. Inspect the receiving threads, mating nut and mounting surfaces. Use the specified torque and sequence for the actual suspension or exhaust position; do not transfer a tightening value from one application to the other.