Front exhaust pipe, removing and installing: Removing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Audi A4, 2005 Audi A4, 2004 Audi A4, and 2003 Audi A4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Always replace gaskets and self-locking nuts.
To avoid damage, do not bend decoupling element of front exhaust pipe by more than 10 °.

Loosen bolts securing front exhaust pipe to catalytic converter, accessible from above.

Fig 1: Removing Heat Shield Above Right Side Drive Axle

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Remove heat shield - arrows - above right side drive axle.

Fig 2: Separating Exhaust System At Clamp

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Separate exhaust system at clamp.

Fig 3: Removing Bolts Securing Catalytic Converter To Front Exhaust Pipe

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Remove bolts - arrows - securing catalytic converter to front exhaust pipe.
Unbolt transmission bracket for exhaust system - arrow -.

NOTE:

To avoid damage, do not bend decoupling element of front exhaust pipe by more than 10 °.

Remove front exhaust pipe.