KYB 343281 Shock Absorber - Rear

KYB Excel-G Rear Shock Absorber

The KYB Excel-G 343281 is a rear suspension shock absorber engineered to restore original ride control, stability, and handling. It is a direct OE-style replacement for select Audi A6 and Volkswagen Passat applications, including European sedan fitments where precise damping matters.

Built on KYB Excel-G OE assembly lines, this nitrogen gas-charged twin-tube shock uses OE-quality components and vehicle-specific damping calibration to return the suspension to designed performance. The 343281 is a practical choice for drivers addressing worn rear suspension response on a 1998-2004 Audi A6 or 2001-2005 Volkswagen Passat.

• KYB recommended OEM replacement shock absorber
• Restores designed control, handling, and body motion management
• Triple-lip fluid seal helps reduce oil and gas leakage
• Vehicle-specific, hand-assembled damping valves manage tire contact and steering response
• Supports proper operation of electronic safety systems by maintaining suspension behavior as engineered
• Rigid strut body and bracket design helps minimize flex and maintain alignment
• Rear position application for select Audi A6 and Volkswagen Passat models

Excel-G Product Line Details

KYB Excel-G is the brand’s OE-style replacement line for drivers who want suspension performance returned to factory intent rather than changed. The line is calibrated to match original damping characteristics and is widely used by professional technicians for European sedan applications such as the Audi A6 and Volkswagen Passat.

Fitment

• Fits 2001-2005 Volkswagen Passat, rear. Replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions.; Excel-G
• Fits 1998-2004 Audi A6, rear. Replace suspension strut and coil spring assembly according to manufacturer's instructions.; Excel-G
• Fits 2000 Volkswagen Passat, rear. Recommended OEM Replacement; From VIN # 3B-Y-200001; Excel-G
• Fits 1998-2000 Volkswagen Passat, rear. Recommended OEM Replacement; To VIN # 3B-Y-200000; Excel-G

Common Problems This Part Addresses

• Excessive rear bounce or poor damping response
• Reduced stability during lane changes and cornering
• Uneven tire contact caused by worn rear shock control
• Noisy or loose-feeling rear suspension behavior
• Loss of original ride control on Audi A6 and Volkswagen Passat models

Installation Notes and Tips

Install the KYB 343281 in the rear position only and follow the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions for suspension strut and coil spring assembly service. KYB recommends replacing strut mounts, part number SM5237, to reduce noise and vibration during service. Confirm VIN breakpoints for 2000 Volkswagen Passat applications before ordering.

Quality Assurance

KYB is a major OE supplier, and Excel-G shocks and struts are produced on the same KYB OE assembly lines using OE-quality components. The 343281 is an OEA-style replacement designed to restore original suspension performance for the specified Audi A6 and Volkswagen Passat fitments.