Original BMW Clutch Starter Interlock Switch for BMW 3 Series, 5 Series, X5, Z3, and Z8 (1996–2002)

Manual-transmission BMWs of the E36, E46, E39, E53, Z3, and E52 era will only crank when the clutch pedal is pressed, and this Original BMW clutch switch is the part that enforces that rule. BMW codes the switch STARTLOCK, and it is also called a clutch position switch or starter inhibitor switch. It is located near the clutch pressure hose assembly and is intended to prevent the car from starting without the clutch pedal depressed. The switch weighs 15 grams and is sold as a single piece. BMW has produced this version from September 1996 onward.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

If a manual BMW will not crank with the clutch pedal fully pressed, this switch is a likely cause. BMW replaced the earlier 61-31-0-141-221 with 61-31-8-363-710 and marks the change as exchangeable retrospectively, so the current number also serves cars built with the older switch. The same switch spans four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and V8 cars, including the M42, M44, M52, M54, S50, S52, S54, M62, and S62 engines, which reflects the wide range of applications in BMW's parts data.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW
• Part number: 61-31-8-363-710
• BMW part name: clutch switch, STARTLOCK
• Replaces: 61-31-0-141-221, exchangeable retrospectively
• Weight: 15 g
• Production start: September 1996
• Sold as: one piece
• Warranty: 24 months

Common Questions

My car will not crank with the clutch pressed. Is it this switch?
That is a common sign of a failed clutch switch on these manual BMWs.

Does it replace 61-31-0-141-221?
Yes. BMW supersedes that number with this switch and approves it for earlier cars.

Fitment & Compatibility

Check the table below for the exact year, model, submodel, and any listed notes. Send your VIN and PMB Performance will confirm the fit, drawing on more than 20 years in the trade.