Original BMW ABS Main Relay for BMW E36 3 Series, M3, and Z3 Roadster (1992–2000)

The Original BMW ABS main relay 61-36-1-393-404 switches the main power feed for the anti-lock brake system on the E36 3 Series, the E36 M3, and the Z3 roadster. Relays like this let a small control current switch a much heavier load, so the ABS unit gets full supply voltage without that current passing through the switch circuit. BMW's name for the part includes the color tomatenrot (tomato red), which is how the relay was traditionally sold. Current supply comes in black, so a black relay in the box is the same BMW part. It weighs 33 g, BMW has produced it since November 1990, and it is made in Portugal.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

BMW uses this single relay across nearly every E36 engine, from the four-cylinder M40, M42, M43, and M44 cars through the six-cylinder M50 and M52 models and the S50 and S52 M3. The Z3 shares it, from the 1.8 and 1.9 roadsters to the 2.8 and the M Roadster with the S50 or S52. Because one number covers the whole range, there is no engine-based split to work through on US cars. The relay is sold individually.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW (Original BMW part)
• Part number: 61-36-1-393-404
• BMW part name: ABS main relay, tomatenrot
• Current color: black
• Weight: 33 g (1.16 oz)
• Production start: November 1990
• Made in Portugal
• Sold as one piece
• Warranty: 24-month parts warranty

Common Questions

My old relay is red, but this one is black. Is it correct?
Yes. BMW traditionally supplied this relay in tomato red, and current production comes in black under the same part number.

Does the engine change which ABS relay I need?
No. BMW uses this one relay across the four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and M3 engines in the E36 and Z3.

PMB supplies Original BMW relays for the E36 3 Series, M3, and Z3.

Fitment & Compatibility

Use the fitment table below to confirm year, make, model, submodel, and any notes tied to your exact vehicle. Pay close attention to engine, chassis, position, and option-specific details before ordering. Send your VIN and PMB Performance will confirm the fit, drawing on more than 20 years in the trade.