OVERVIEW
Original hardware for the exhaust support assembly
The N-040-301-6 Genuine VW/Audi exhaust hanger bolt fastens the original exhaust support at the specified mounting position. Correct hardware helps the hanger hold the exhaust in its intended position while the complete support arrangement accommodates movement and vibration. On the listed Passat application, this bolt secures the lower hanger connection at the downpipe. The confirmed newer Audi applications use this number at the front-pipe support plate positions stated in the table, including selected Q5 plug-in-hybrid assemblies. Their springs, washers and guide sleeves must remain in the factory arrangement.
Technical details
- Part number: N-040-301-6 / N0403016.
- Specification: M8 nominal thread diameter with a specified 48 mm length.
- Head: external hex for socket or wrench engagement.
- Application: original exhaust hanger mounting position identified in the fitment table.
- Quantity: one bolt; hanger, guide sleeve, nut and other mounting hardware are separate.
Thread diameter alone does not establish interchangeability. The bolt length, sleeve arrangement and location must match the original support. A bolt that is too short may provide insufficient engagement, while one that is too long can interfere with adjoining components. Confirm this exact number rather than selecting hardware solely by its appearance.
Common reasons to replace
- Corroded or seized hardware: repeated heat cycles and road exposure can make exhaust fasteners difficult to service.
- Rounded hex head: damaged wrench flats can prevent controlled removal and tightening.
- Damaged threads: cross-threading or fastening damage can prevent secure assembly.
- Missing or incorrect hardware: an incomplete hanger connection after a previous repair can leave the support improperly assembled.
- Exhaust support service: inspect this bolt when replacing the original hanger, sleeve or associated exhaust section.
An exhaust rattle or a pipe contacting the underbody requires inspection of the complete mounting system. Check the hanger, isolation components, sleeves, pipe alignment and adjacent connections. A new bolt cannot restore a torn rubber support or correct a bent bracket.
Fitment data sheet
| Vehicle | Model years | Engine | Configuration | Application restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Passat | 1998–2005 | 1.8L turbo gasoline | B5 / B5.5 Sedan and Wagon; front-wheel drive; Original lower downpipe hanger attachment; match the installed manual or automatic assembly | Original exhaust hanger bolt position specifying N-040-301-6. Match the hanger, sleeve and original parts diagram; not interchangeable with every bolt in the exhaust assembly. |
| Audi RS4 | 2007–2008 | 4.2L FSI V8 gasoline | B7 Sedan; quattro; 6-speed manual | Original exhaust hanger bolt position specifying N-040-301-6. Match the hanger, sleeve and original parts diagram; not interchangeable with every bolt in the exhaust assembly. |
| Audi RS4 | 2008 | 4.2L FSI V8 gasoline | B7 Cabriolet; quattro; 6-speed manual | Original exhaust hanger bolt position specifying N-040-301-6. Match the hanger, sleeve and original parts diagram; not interchangeable with every bolt in the exhaust assembly. |
| Audi Q5 | 2018, 2020 | 2.0L turbocharged gasoline inline-four | FY SUV; original non-plug-in-hybrid exhaust; Automatic; match original exhaust support assembly | Original front-pipe support plate positions 8 and 12 specifying N-040-301-6. Retain the prescribed spring, washer and sleeve arrangement; other exhaust bolts are not interchangeable. |
| Audi Q5 PHEV | 2023–2024 | 2.0L turbocharged gasoline / electric plug-in hybrid | FY SUV; plug-in hybrid only; Automatic; match original exhaust support assembly | Original exhaust support plate bolt position 11; 2024 plate positions 11 and 16 specifying N-040-301-6. Retain the prescribed spring, washer and sleeve arrangement; other exhaust bolts are not interchangeable. |
| Audi S4 | 2018, 2024 | 3.0L turbocharged V6 gasoline | B9 sedan; quattro; Automatic; match original exhaust support assembly | Original left or right front-pipe support positions 9 and 13 specifying N-040-301-6. Retain the prescribed spring, washer and sleeve arrangement; other exhaust bolts are not interchangeable. |
| Audi SQ5 Sportback | 2023 | 3.0L turbocharged V6 gasoline | FY Sportback; quattro; Automatic; match original exhaust support assembly | Original left or right front-pipe support positions 9 and 13 specifying N-040-301-6. Retain the prescribed spring, washer and sleeve arrangement; other exhaust bolts are not interchangeable. |
| Audi SQ5 | 2018 | 3.0L turbocharged V6 gasoline | FY SUV; quattro; Automatic; match original exhaust support | Left/right front-pipe support positions 9 and 13 specifying N-040-301-6. Preserve the original spring, washer and sleeve arrangement. Other engine, body or bolt positions excluded. |
| Audi S5 | 2018 | 3.0L turbocharged V6 gasoline | B9 Coupe; quattro; Automatic; match original exhaust support | Left/right exhaust plate upper/lower bolt positions 13 and 17 specifying N-040-301-6. Preserve the original spring, washer and sleeve arrangement. Other engine, body or bolt positions excluded. |
| Audi S5 Cabriolet | 2018 | 3.0L turbocharged V6 gasoline | B9 Cabriolet; quattro; Automatic; match original exhaust support | Left/right exhaust plate upper/lower bolt positions 13 and 17 specifying N-040-301-6. Preserve the original spring, washer and sleeve arrangement. Other engine, body or bolt positions excluded. |
| Audi A4 | 2018 | 2.0L turbocharged gasoline inline-four; original CYMC or DBPA assembly | B9 sedan; match factory engine code; Manual or automatic as originally equipped; match original exhaust support | Original front-pipe support positions 8 and 12 specifying N-040-301-6. Preserve the original spring, washer and sleeve arrangement. Other engine, body or bolt positions excluded. |
Installation and ordering guidance
Confirm the vehicle identification number and the original exhaust assembly diagram before ordering. Different fastening positions within the same hanger can use different bolt lengths. Match the lower connection, guide sleeve and retaining hardware as a complete arrangement, and count the fasteners required for the repair.
Support the exhaust before releasing the hanger. Inspect the receiving threads and the mating hardware, then align the support without forcing the pipe into position. Install the original sleeve and isolating components in their specified sequence and use the tightening procedure prescribed for that attachment. No universal torque value applies to every exhaust hanger position.
After service, check that the exhaust clears the body and surrounding components through its normal supported position. Confirm that the hanger is correctly seated and that all serviced connections are secure before returning the vehicle to use.