BMW Remote Start is a convenient feature that allows drivers to start their BMWs remotely. With the push of a button on the key fob or through the BMW Remote Start app, drivers can start their engines from inside their homes, offices, or even while walking back to their cars. This feature can come in handy during the winter months when drivers want to warm up their car before getting inside.
While BMW Remote Start may seem like a luxury feature, it is actually becoming more common in newer BMW models. However, not all BMWs come equipped with this feature, and some older models may require additional installation.
In this ultimate guide, readers will learn everything they need to know about BMW Remote Start, including which BMW models and years have the feature, how to activate it, and how to use it.
Understanding BMW Remote Start
What is BMW Remote Start?
BMW Remote Start is a feature that allows drivers to start their BMW vehicles remotely using their BMW key fob or the BMW Connected app on their smartphones. This feature is available on BMW models from MY2019 and later.
How BMW Remote Start Works
To use BMW Remote Start, the driver must first activate the feature on their BMW. This can be done through the BMW Connected app or by visiting a BMW dealership. Once activated, the driver can start their BMW remotely by pressing the lock button on their BMW key fob three times within five seconds or by using the BMW Connected app on their smartphone.
When the driver activates BMW Remote Start, the engine of the BMW will start, and the climate control system will begin to adjust the temperature to the driver’s preset preferences. The BMW will remain running for up to 15 minutes or until the driver enters the vehicle and presses the start/stop button.
It is essential to note that BMW Remote Start is only available on BMW vehicles with automatic transmissions. Additionally, the feature may not be available in certain regions due to local laws and regulations.
Benefits of BMW Remote Start
BMW Remote Start is a feature that comes with many benefits. This section will discuss the three main categories of benefits: comfort, safety, and convenience.
1. Comfort
One of the primary benefits of BMW Remote Start is the comfort it provides. With this feature, drivers can start their car’s engine and precondition the interior to a comfortable temperature before getting inside. This means that drivers can enjoy a warm or cool car without having to endure the discomfort of extreme temperatures.
2. Safety
Another benefit of BMW Remote Start is the safety it provides. By starting the car remotely, drivers can avoid the dangers of getting into a hot or cold car. This is especially important during extreme weather conditions, as it can help prevent heat stroke or hypothermia. Additionally, drivers can use the feature to warm up the car’s engine, which can help prevent damage caused by cold weather.
3. Convenience
Finally, BMW Remote Start provides drivers with added convenience. With the My BMW app, drivers can start their car’s engine from their smartphone, which means they don’t have to be in close proximity to the car to use the feature. This is especially useful when drivers are in a hurry or have their hands full.
BMW Models Compatible with Remote Start
BMW has expanded its range of vehicles with the remote start feature. This feature is available for purchase on most model year 2019 and newer vehicles with an automatic transmission, a Li or 6 cylinder internal combustion engine, and an active ConnectedDrive account linked to the vehicle.
The following BMW models are compatible with remote start:
- BMW 2 Series
- BMW 3 Series
- BMW 4 Series
- BMW 5 Series
- BMW 6 Series
- BMW 7 Series
- BMW 8 Series
- BMW X1
- BMW X2
- BMW X3
- BMW X4
- BMW X5
- BMW X6
- BMW X7
- BMW Z4
It’s important to note that not all trims of these models may have the remote start feature available. Additionally, some models may require additional packages or options to be purchased in order to have remote start functionality.
With the BMW Connected app, compatible smartphones can activate BMW Remote Start, set the preferred temperature, and start the engine all in one place, even if the user is not close to the vehicle.
Installing BMW Remote Start
Installing BMW Remote Start can provide a lot of convenience and comfort to the driver. There are two ways to install BMW Remote Start: Professional Installation or DIY Installation.
Professional Installation
The Professional Installation of BMW Remote Start is recommended for those who are not familiar with the technical aspects of BMW vehicles. A professional installer has the necessary knowledge, tools, and experience to install the system correctly and safely.
The cost of professional installation varies depending on the installer, but it is generally between $500 and $1000. The installation process usually takes a few hours, and the installer will also provide a warranty for the system.
DIY Installation
DIY Installation of BMW Remote Start is recommended for those who have experience with the technical aspects of BMW vehicles. The installation process involves connecting the Remote Start module to the vehicle’s wiring harness, which requires some knowledge of electrical systems.
The DIY Installation process can be less expensive than professional installation, but it requires more time and effort. The cost of the Remote Start module ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the model and features.
It is essential to follow the installation instructions carefully and ensure that all connections are secure and correctly wired. Otherwise, the system may not work correctly or could cause damage to the vehicle.
Using BMW Remote Start
BMW Remote Start feature allows the driver to start their vehicle remotely using the BMW key fob or the BMW Connected app on their smartphone. This feature is available in BMW vehicles since MY2019. In this section, we will explain how to activate and deactivate the BMW Remote Start feature.
Activating Remote Start
Before activating the BMW Remote Start feature, the driver must ensure that the vehicle is locked and that the engine is turned off. To activate the Remote Start feature, follow these steps:
- Open the BMW Connected app on your smartphone.
- Select the vehicle you want to start remotely.
- Tap the ‘Climate’ icon on the app’s home screen.
- Tap ‘Preconditioning/Ventilation.’
- Tap ‘Remote Engine Start.’
- Check the box for ‘Starting Engine for Clim. Control.’
- Tap ‘Start Now.’
The vehicle will start remotely, and the interior will be preconditioned to a comfortable temperature. The engine will run for up to 15 minutes or until the driver unlocks the vehicle using the BMW key fob or the BMW Connected app.
Deactivating Remote Start
To deactivate the BMW Remote Start feature, follow these steps:
- Open the BMW Connected app on your smartphone.
- Select the vehicle you want to deactivate the Remote Start feature.
- Tap the ‘Climate’ icon on the app’s home screen.
- Tap ‘Preconditioning/Ventilation.’
- Tap ‘Remote Engine Start.’
- Uncheck the box for ‘Starting Engine for Clim. Control.’
- Tap ‘Stop Now.’
The engine will turn off, and the Remote Start feature will be deactivated.
Troubleshooting BMW Remote Start
Common Issues
BMW Remote Start is a convenient feature that allows drivers to start their car’s engine from a distance. However, like any technology, it can sometimes experience issues. Here are some common issues that drivers may experience with BMW Remote Start:
- The engine does not start when the remote start button is pressed.
- The engine starts but then shuts off immediately.
- The remote start feature is not available on the BMW model.
Solutions
If you experience any of the above issues with BMW Remote Start, there are some solutions you can try:
- Ensure that the BMW is in a safe location and that the doors are locked before attempting to use the remote start feature.
- Check that the battery in the remote start key fob is not low or dead.
- Verify that the BMW is equipped with the remote start feature and that it has been properly activated.
- If the engine starts but then shuts off immediately, it may be due to a safety feature that requires the driver to physically enter the car and turn the key in the ignition to prevent theft. In this case, the driver should enter the car and start the engine manually.
- If none of these solutions work, it may be necessary to contact a BMW dealership or authorized service center for further assistance.
Maintaining Your BMW Remote Start
To ensure that your BMW Remote Start feature works smoothly, it is essential to keep it well-maintained. Regular maintenance can prevent any issues from arising and keep your BMW running efficiently. Here are some tips for maintaining your BMW Remote Start:
Keep Your BMW’s Battery Charged
One of the essential maintenance tasks for your BMW Remote Start is to keep your vehicle’s battery charged. The Remote Start feature requires a charged battery to function correctly. If your vehicle’s battery is low, the Remote Start feature may not work correctly. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your vehicle’s battery is well-maintained.
Check Your BMW Remote Start Regularly
It is essential to check your BMW Remote Start regularly to ensure that it is working correctly. You can check your Remote Start feature using the My BMW app or the BMW key fob. If you notice any issues with your Remote Start feature, you should take your vehicle to a BMW dealership for inspection.
Keep Your BMW’s Software Updated
To ensure that your BMW Remote Start feature works correctly, it is essential to keep your vehicle’s software updated. BMW releases software updates regularly to fix any bugs and improve the performance of your vehicle. Therefore, it is essential to keep your vehicle’s software up-to-date to ensure that your Remote Start feature works correctly.
Use Genuine BMW Parts
When maintaining your BMW Remote Start feature, it is essential to use genuine BMW parts. Genuine BMW parts are designed to work seamlessly with your vehicle and ensure that your Remote Start feature works correctly. Using non-genuine parts can damage your vehicle and affect the performance of your Remote Start feature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, BMW Remote Start is a convenient and practical feature that enhances the driving experience. With the ability to precondition the interior of the car to a comfortable temperature, drivers can enjoy a comfortable ride even before stepping inside. The feature is easy to operate with the My BMW app and the BMW key fob.
Although not all BMW models have remote start, it is possible to add the feature to certain models through aftermarket solutions. BimmerTech is a company that offers remote start upgrades for BMWs that don’t have the feature installed at the factory.
It is important to note that remote start should only be used in safe and appropriate situations. Drivers should never leave their car unattended while it is running with remote start. Additionally, remote start should not be used in enclosed spaces such as garages, as it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Overall, BMW Remote Start is a valuable feature that adds convenience and comfort to the driving experience. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that more and more vehicles will offer remote start as a standard feature.
