A multi-layer joint insert is provided at one or more joints between an engine exhaust manifold and a component mounted by fasteners on the exhaust manifold, as well as between the component and the fastener heads/nuts, to reduce wear and failure at the one or more joints. The joint insert includes a first sheet metal layer having at least one fastener-receiving opening and a second sheet metal layer having at least one fastener-receiving opening, wherein the first and second sheet meal layers are joined by at least one connecting arrangement that permits relative sliding movement between the first and second sheet metal layers in response to thermally-induced movement at the one or more joints, thereby reducing wear and failure at the one or more joints.