Original BMW White Normally Open Relay with Reverse Polarity Protection for BMW 3, 5, and 7 Series, M3, and M5 (1984–2001)

Built with a reversed-polarity guard, this Original BMW white normally open relay, part 61-36-1-729-004, switches high-current circuits in BMW 3, 5, and 7 Series cars plus the M3 and M5 from 1984–2001. BMW calls it the relay for NO contact, white, and lists the polarity guard in its description, which protects the relay if voltage is applied the wrong way across it. It is a light unit at 3 g, in production since July 1988, and it supersedes 61-36-1-729-005 with BMW marking the change exchangeable retrospectively. Made in Portugal. In plain terms, a relay lets a small switched current energize a coil that closes contacts for a much larger load, keeping that load off the switch or control module.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

Many BMW owners know this white relay as the DME relay, and the same part also crosses to 12-63-1-711-266, 12-63-1-729-005, and 12-63-1-729-004. BMW's data spans an unusually long run of chassis: E28, E30, E32, E34, E36, and E38, plus the E31 8 Series, Z1, and Z3 M, with engines from the M20 and M30 sixes to the S38, S50, S52, M60, M62, and M70.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW (Genuine), made in Portugal
• Part number: 61-36-1-729-004
• BMW part name: Relay for NO contact, white, with reversed-polarity guard
• Weight: 3 g (0.11 oz)
• Production start: July 1988
• Supersedes: 61-36-1-729-005, exchangeable retrospectively
• Cross numbers: 12-63-1-711-266, 12-63-1-729-005, 12-63-1-729-004
• Sold individually
• Warranty: 24-month parts warranty

Common Questions

Is this the DME relay on my E30 or E34?
It is commonly sold as the DME relay and crosses to the 12-63 DME relay numbers shown above, though BMW uses this white relay in several positions.

How can I tell if mine has failed?
Systems it powers start working intermittently or quit. Energize the coil with 12 V, listen for a clean click, and check for near-zero resistance across the load contacts.

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. PMB Performance has spent over 20 years matching parts to vehicles and can verify this against your VIN.