Whether it’s a frosty morning or a sweltering afternoon, remote start has you covered. You can turn on the car in advance and step into a climate-controlled environment. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of this feature, letting you rev up your BMW 3 Series engine and comfort from afar.
The BMW 3 Series has a remote start feature in model years 2018 and older, starting with the BMW 3 G20.
However, before you can use it, you may need to unlock this feature on your car’s infotainment system.
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How to Enable Remote Start
In some newer models, the remote start feature might not be enabled in factory settings. You can use the infotainment system settings to set it up. Here’s how:
- Press “CAR” on the home screen.
- Go to “Settings.”
- Scroll and select “Climate Control.”
- Choose “Preconditioning/Ventilation.”
- Hit “Remote Engine Start.”
- Enable “Starting Engine for Climate Control” (it may be abbreviated).
- Choose “OK” on the disclaimer to confirm your settings.
With the remote start enabled, your car’s climate control can now turn on remotely.
Remote Start BMW 3 Series via Key Fob
The more straightforward way to use remote start is via the provided key fob you received with your vehicle. The process couldn’t be simpler:
- Ensure that your BMW 3 Series is
- Press the BMW logo button three times quickly to turn on the car.
Note that remote start via key fob won’t allow you to change your car’s AC settings. It will start on whatever settings were last used before it was turned off.
Also, keep in mind that your car needs to be within the range of the key fob, a distance that may be reduced if there’s an obstacle such as a wall between them.
Remote Start BMW 3 Series via Display Key
BMW 3 series starting with the F30 in 2019 also offers the option of using a display key instead of a traditional key fob. Some cars can receive an aftermarket upgrade from a key fob to a display key. The process for starting your car remotely remains simple:
- Ensure that the car is locked.
- Go to “Preconditioning.”
- Press the fan icon.
- Choose “Activate Now” and “Engine Start” to remotely start the car’s AC system.
The display key also provides a rudimentary remote AC control.
Remote Start BMW 3 Series via My BMW App
The last way to use remote start is through BMW’s official My BMW app for Android and iOS mobile devices. Apart from functioning like a regular key fob, it allows you a greater degree of control and monitoring over your vehicle. Here’s what you’ll need to do to use it for remote starting your vehicle:
- Go to your mobile device’s app store and download the “My BMW” app.
- Open the app and log in to your ConnectedDrive account using your credentials.
- If your vehicle isn’t already added to the app, you’ll need to add it and set up an authentication system such as PIN. Follow the on-screen instructions for setting up your vehicle.
- Go to the “REMOTE” tab and select “Climatize Now.”
- Hit “Confirm.” This will start your vehicle’s engine and turn on the climate control system.
- Wait for a confirmation message within the app or an indication that the remote start has been successful.
- You can tap on the “INFO” tab in the app to monitor your vehicle. You can view the interior temperature, fuel level, and other essential details, as well as a timer that suggests how long the vehicle will stay on if you don’t start driving.
FAQs
Does the remote start option work indefinitely?
No. After 15 minutes, the car will shut down if it hasn’t been driven.
Can you use remote start through the Digital Key?
No. The digital key feature that uses NFC authentication on Samsung phones and iPhones can’t remotely start your vehicle. It will only be able to open your driver’s side car door from a few inches away.
Do I need a subscription for remote start?
If you’ve purchased a remote start package with your car, then you can use the key fob for remote start for as long as the car is supported. However, you will need to have an active ConnectedDrive subscription to use the My BMW app for this feature.
When shouldn’t you use remote start?
It’s inadvisable to use the feature if your car is covered, in a cramped space, or near flammable items.
How do I know if my car has the remote start feature?
The remote start feature is available on all BMW 3 series starting with the 5th generation in 2018. Look for whether your car has ConnectedDrive compatibility.