Aditya Sanyal

India’s biggest stock exchange is closed due to local Munsipalty elections 🤣 Such things are basically the uneducated riff raff being in power showing who’s the boss.

BMW has patented a unique fastener design incorporating its signature roundel logo into the screw head, potentially making certain repairs inaccessible without specialized tools. Unlike conventional Torx, hex, or Phillips heads, this proprietary screw features a head divided into quadrants—typically with two recessed sections shaped to match the logo's pattern—preventing engagement with standard drivers. The design explicitly aims to block loosening or tightening by "unauthorized persons" using common tools, directing owners toward authorized BMW service centers for maintenance involving these fasteners. Currently, BMW vehicles use industry-standard hardware (e.g., stainless steel bolts for license plates or wheel lugs), but this patent—filed in mid-2024 and published recently—signals a possible future emphasis on exclusive components for visible or structural areas, such as interior panels, seat mounts, or body connections. Car enthusiasts and right-to-repair advocates express concern that widespread adoption could hinder DIY maintenance, raise ownership costs, and complicate work for independent mechanics, who would need to acquire BMW-specific tools. While aesthetically aligned with the brand's premium image, the move has drawn criticism for prioritizing control over accessibility. Note that this remains a patent only, with no confirmation of production implementation—many patented ideas never reach vehicles.