The BMW E90’s onboard toolkit, located in the trunk, is designed to handle minor emergencies. While the owner’s manual depicts a wrench and mentions an Allen wrench for the glass roof’s manual closure, an asterisk often accompanies this reference. This asterisk signifies an optional feature, implying the Allen wrench might not be standard equipment, especially in North American E90 models without the glass roof.
While the manual states the “Allen wrench” resides within the “onboard tool kit,” its optional status raises questions about its inclusion. It’s plausible that BMW intended the Allen wrench only for models equipped with the glass roof. However, confirming this for North American E90 configurations proves challenging.
Interestingly, the Allen wrench from the E38 and E39 toolkits seamlessly fits the E90’s toolkit slot. This suggests a potential workaround for acquiring the missing tool. The E38/E39 toolkits include two double open-end wrenches: an 8mm x 10mm and a 12mm x 13mm, both manufactured by Heyco and bearing BMW branding and DIN numbers. Unfortunately, both are too long for the E90’s designated compartment.
Based on visual estimations, the E90’s slot appears tailored for a 10mm x 12mm spanner, approximately 100mm in length. However, without official specifications, confirming these dimensions remains difficult. The likely manufacturer, Heyco, might offer further clues if their product catalogs were consulted. Ultimately, the mystery of the E90’s Allen wrench and its precise specifications continues to intrigue.