BMW part number 32311152052 (M8x47 fracture/shear bolt, superseding 32311113627) is used on BMW 02 Series (E10) and 3 Series (E21) models produced from 1968 through 1983. It is installed on the steering column assembly to clamp the ignition lock housing onto the steering column jacket tube. Typically installed in pairs (2 bolts per vehicle). Because it is a theft-deterrent shear bolt, the hex head snaps off once tightened to factory torque, leaving a smooth rounded dome flush against the lock housing.
- BMW 02 Series / E10 (1968–1976). Fits 1602, 2002, and 2002tii models (both manual and automatic transmissions) up to the end of E10 production in 1976.
- BMW 3 Series / E21 (1977–1983). Fits all US-market 320i models—including 2.0L M10 (1977–1979) and 1.8L M10 (1980–1983) coupes with manual or automatic transmissions—through the final E21 production cutoff in 1983 (prior to the E30 platform transition, which switched to a shorter M8 fracture bolt
32311157967).
To remove old headless shear bolts from an E10 or E21 steering column, use a sharp center punch and hammer to tap the bolt counter-clockwise, or cut a flat slot into the rounded dome with a Dremel. Because factory torque is relatively low and the bolts rarely seize from rust inside the cabin, they usually spin right out once broken loose.
