Original BMW Violet-Blue Normally Open Relay for BMW E36 3 Series, M3, E38 7 Series, and Z3 (1992–2001)

The Original BMW 61-35-8-364-690 is a violet-blue normally open relay that switches a high-current circuit on E36 3 Series, M3, E38 7 Series, and Z3 models from 1992–2001. BMW names it the relay for n/o contact, violet-blue. It weighs 36 g (1.27 oz) and has been in production since September 1994. It supersedes the earlier 61-35-8-353-090, and BMW marks the change as exchangeable retrospectively, so it also replaces the older number on earlier cars. Any relay of this kind uses a small control current to energize a coil, which closes a set of contacts feeding a heavier load and keeps that load current away from switches and control modules.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

This is a multi-purpose relay. Relays of this type can run fuel pumps, cooling fans, lighting, HVAC components, or wipers, so the same part number can appear in more than one position on a car and on several different models. BMW's parts data places it across a wide spread of engines: M40, M42, M43, M44, M50, M52, S50, and S52 in the E36 range, M52, M60, M62, and M73 in the E38, and M43, M44, M52, S50, and S52 in the Z3.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW (Genuine)
• Part number: 61-35-8-364-690
• BMW part name: Relay for n/o contact, violet-blue
• Contact type: normally open
• Weight: 36 g (1.27 oz)
• Production start: September 1994
• Supersedes: 61-35-8-353-090, exchangeable retrospectively
• Sold individually as one relay
• Warranty: 24-month parts warranty

Common Questions

Does this replace 61-35-8-353-090?
Yes. BMW superseded that number with 61-35-8-364-690 and rates the change as exchangeable retrospectively.

What does a failing relay of this type cause?
The circuit it powers works intermittently or stops. Heat, weather exposure, and age raise the odds of failure, and swapping in a known good relay is a fast way to confirm it.

Our parts team can help match the right relay to your E36, E38, or Z3.

Fitment & Compatibility

Use the fitment table below to confirm year, model, submodel, and application notes before ordering. With over 20 years of parts and fitment experience, PMB Performance can match this to your VIN.