Original BMW Cylinder Head Bolt Washer for BMW 3, 5, 6, 7, and 8 Series, X3, X5, Z3, Z4, and Z8 (1991–2013)

Original BMW cylinder head bolt washer 11-12-7-550-856 is the flat washer that seats under the cylinder head bolts on a broad range of BMW engines built from 1991–2013. Head bolts clamp the cylinder head to the engine block, and a washer under each one gives the bolt a flat bearing face on the head so the clamping load spreads over a wider area. BMW names the part simply as a washer. One number covers an unusually long run of engines, including the M42, M44, M50, M52, M54, and M56, the M60, M62, N62, and N62N, the N73, and the S50, S52, S62, S65, and S85 M engines. The same washer goes under the head bolts of an E36 318i and an E66 760Li.

Part number history matters with this washer, because it has appeared under more than one number. It replaces 11-12-1-721-734, and BMW rates the change as exchangeable retrospectively. That means the current washer is approved for engines first built with the older one. It also cross-references to 11-12-1-265-388. If an old invoice or a parts diagram shows either of those numbers, 11-12-7-550-856 is the washer that takes their place.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW, supplied as a Genuine BMW part
• Part number: 11-12-7-550-856
• BMW part name: Washer, for the cylinder head bolts
• Weight: 9 g (0.32 oz)
• Production start: October 2004
• Supersedes: 11-12-1-721-734, exchangeable retrospectively
• Sold as: a single washer

Common Questions

How many of these washers does a cylinder head need?
Each cylinder head bolt takes one flat washer, which sits between the bolt head and the cylinder head. Match your order quantity to your engine's head bolt count.

Where is this washer made?
It is made in Germany and supplied as Genuine BMW.

PMB can help you round out the Genuine BMW hardware for your cylinder head job.

Fitment & Compatibility

Use the fitment table below to confirm the exact year, make, model, submodel, and any application notes before ordering. Send your VIN and PMB Performance will confirm the fit, drawing on more than 20 years in the trade.