BMW Created a Screw So You Won’t Fix Your Own Car

BMW’s 2025 patent for a new roundel-shaped screw is stirring controversy worldwide. 

The design, filed with WIPO in June 2024 and published in late 2025, introduces a screw that requires special tools, potentially preventing car owners and independent mechanics from performing basic repairs. 

This move could affect markets like Pakistan, where affordable car maintenance is crucial.

The Design of the New Screw

The screw features four quadrants that mirror BMW’s iconic logo. 

Two quadrants are recessed for a custom tool, while the other two are flush, making it impossible to use standard tools like Torx or hex drivers. 

The screw is intended for high-torque areas such as seat mounts and interior panels, aiming to prevent unauthorised tampering.

Impact on Maintenance Costs 

While BMW claims the design will enhance security, critics argue it could force car owners to rely on costly dealership services, especially in countries like Pakistan, where imported parts are already expensive. 

Another report also states that local garages could face additional challenges, and the move clashes with the global “Right to Repair” movement. In contrast, companies like Mercedes-Benz are pushing for designs that make repairs easier and cheaper.

The Future of DIY Repairs

While aftermarket tools might eventually appear on websites, the initial hurdles could make DIY repairs more difficult. 

As electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids become more common, such designs may increase the need for authorised services, sparking debates about right-to-repair laws in regions like the EU and the US.

Looking Ahead

The screw is still in the conceptual stage and hasn’t gone into production yet. 

However, if it moves forward, it could redefine car owners’ rights, leading to regulatory scrutiny. 

For now, it’s a reminder that BMW’s ultimate driving machine might come with ultimate repair restrictions.