Bavarian automaker BMW has filed a patent for a new bolt head design that faithfully replicates the brand’s signature logo, known as the “roundel.” Although the design appears at first sight as a visually attractive detail, its primary function is of a technical nature – it only requires a specific tool for tightening and loosening, which probably only they will have available.
The head of the screw consists of two recessed quadrants that accept the corresponding key, while the remaining two quadrants are flush with the surface, which makes it impossible for standard tools like torx or allen to get any grip. According to available information from the patent, these bolts are primarily intended for structural and semi-structural applications within vehicles. This includes critical areas such as seat supports and joints where the interior of the car meets the body. BMW foresees several design variations, including recessed, flat and rounded heads, which opens up the possibility of widespread application of these elements in future models.
Limiting independent maintenance
The move has sparked debate over the right to repair, as the new bolt shape directly prevents owners and independent mechanics from servicing. While the design may look interesting from an aesthetic point of view, in practice it serves as a barrier that directs users towards exclusively authorized services.
It is interesting that BMW is introducing these restrictions at a time when competitors, such as Mercedes-Benz, are announcing the completely opposite direction of development. Mercedes recently outlined plans to design their future vehicles to be simpler, not more complicated, to repair. This contrast in strategies suggests different approaches to long-term customer relations and vehicle maintenance after purchase.
Although the current designs are focused on high-torque bolts that require professional experience, there are fears that they could also appear in more accessible places in the interior or under the hood. If this happens, even the simplest operations on the vehicle will become impossible without having a (probably highly protected) BMW tool.
For now, it is not entirely clear whether BMW will implement the new screws in all series models or will keep them only for specific, luxury vehicle lines. What is certain is that this “innovation” further strengthens the manufacturer’s control over the product life cycle, while at the same time posing new challenges to the independent auto parts and service market.