Patented New BMW Proprietary Screw Design Could Complicate Future Repairs

Illustrations of special screw designs patented by BMW. (Images: Autoblog)

It appears that German automaker BMW is experimenting with a ‘design quirk’ that may not just prevent tampering and theft, but one that could also complicate general repairs and fixes, argues some mechanics and avid DIY enthusiasts online.

Autoblog recently published what appears to be legitimate design patents filed by the German marque for a proprietary new screw design. The title even digitally illustrated said designs for a clearer look.

Four screw types were detailed in the patent filed by BMW, all featuring the marque's iconic emblem design in their respective heads.

One novelty here is that the screw features a custom head modelled after the marque’s iconic emblem.

The patent reportedly outlines four different head types – socket, flat, and rounded styles. Each is shaped to resemble the BMW emblem that’s split into four quadrants. Two of the sections are recessed, while the remaining ones are either flat or raised.

The latter helps form a shape that would likely require a made-to-fit tool. That last fact will certainly irk many mechanics and avid DIY enthusiasts.

The use of special screws and fasteners isn't new, and it lets automakers secure key parts to prevent either tampering (for warranty purposes) or theft.

For automakers like BMW, this special fastener type arguably brings several security benefits. Firstly, the requirement for a special tool should prevent tampering of specific parts, likely for warranty purposes. Secondly, it should also prevent theft of specific parts.

This, of course, presents itself as a double-edged sword of sorts as the need for special tools – likely with controlled dissemination (i.e. authorised dealers and service centres) – limits what those without it can do.

Certainly, these special screws will require special tools made-to-fit with which - much to the irk of many mechanics and DIY enthusiasts as standard tools won't cut it. (Images: Autoblog)

This is especially true for general mechanics and crafty owners with standard toolkits as unusual screw patterns means regular tools set won’t grip or fit. 

In other words, those hoping to access parts fastened and secured using said special screws will need BMW-specific gear or tools.

While the purpose of these special screws are clear, what is unclear still is if BMW will actually adopt these for use in upcoming production models. We’ll remind you that carmakers often file countless patents as such, but rarely ever implement them.