Why is this part so damned expensive?! It costs more that the rear muffler!! I've seen prices as high $900 to as low as $218! Un f'n believable. I was thinking of having a custom Exhaust shop put something universal in but they can't seem to find one that would fit. WTF! Any suggestions? Don't want to run without one cause we have a sound ordinance here.

 

Where are you located?
I've got an entire downpipe-back exhaust (basically starting from the tail-end of the transmission) in great shape for a 1.8T Quattro. It's sitting in my garage and I have it listed for $0 on Craigslist.

If I can help you out, you would help me out too by allowing me to get rid of this stock exhaust system.

 

You are in California and I'm in Illinois. I think picking it up from you will be a bit of a chore.

 

Check your local junkyards.