VW Exhaust Pipe to Manifold Gasket - Genuine VW 161298115

Product Information

The exhaust manifold gasket is a component that forms a seal between the engine’s exhaust manifold and the cylinder head. The exhaust manifold is responsible for collecting exhaust gases from the engine’s cylinders and directing them into the exhaust system. The gasket’s primary function is to prevent exhaust gas leaks and ensure that exhaust gases flow smoothly into the exhaust manifold and through the exhaust system. It ensures that all exhaust gases are directed into the exhaust system rather than escaping into the engine compartment, which could lead to dangerous fumes entering the vehicle's cabin and a foul odor.

• Exhaust Leaks: A common sign of a faulty gasket is a hissing or tapping sound, especially during acceleration or when the engine is cold
• Reduced Backpressure: exhaust leaks affect the backpressure needed for efficient engine operation, leading to poor performance
• Odor: A leaking gasket may cause exhaust fumes to escape into the engine bay or even the cabin. This can lead to a noticeable, strong smell of exhaust gases (such as unburnt fuel or sulfur) inside or near the vehicle
• Overheating: A leaking gasket can allow hot exhaust gases to escape into the engine bay, potentially causing nearby components (like hoses, wires, or plastic parts) to overheat, melt, or become damaged

About Genuine VW

The Volkswagen Group, also known as “VAG”, consists of Volkswagen, Audi, Lamborghini, Bentley, Bugatti, Porsche, Ducati, MAN, Scania, SEAT, and Skoda. The original parts used by VW to build your car are available as replacement parts under the “Genuine VW” brand. Manufactured under the direction of VW, expect excellent quality and a premium price since these parts are available exclusively through the VW Dealership network.

You may not realize this, but the parts that make up your VW are not necessarily manufactured by VW. No cause for concern, as VW designs the part, hires a manufacturer, and ensures its quality to you. In fact, many of these manufacturers have been making parts for VW for decades. In our industry these manufacturers are called OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers), and these are often brands you recognize, including Lemforder, ZF, Sachs, Bosch, Valeo, Zimmermann, Siemens VDO, Corteco, and more. Don’t be surprised to open that Genuine VW parts box and find an OEM branded part inside, simply with the addition of a VW logo.

Be sure to keep an eye out for OE tags on our product pages to quickly identify parts coming directly from OE manufacturers. That extra bit of insight could save you some serious money while shopping! Refer to our OE Academy for further information regarding the OE/OEM tags throughout the site.