Tie Rod Locking Plate, M3-spec - E36, Z3

The lock plate prevents the tie rod from backing out of the steering rack. When installed correctly with the "tab" of the lock plate bent over the tie rod, the tie rod cannot rotate backwards and off the rack. Most of the time these cannot be re-used once the tab is bent over so a new lock is recommended with new tie rods or if the tie rod is removed from the car. Sold per lock. A Genuine BMW part.

This part number is from the M3 but works on all E36 and Z3. The M3 lock plate is thicker than the non-M and acts like a steering rack stop to help prevent the tire from rubbing on the inner fender. On non-M cars you might notice the steering reaches full lock sooner.