How to Use BMW's Remote Start

A key fob or a smartphone can remotely start your car, though the software-based service must be purchased digitally.

Andy Stonehouse | 

May 9, 2025 | 3 min read

BMW

When it's cold outside or on a blazingly hot summer day, safe remote start is a convenient feature that lets you use the ventilation system to precondition your car's interior before a drive.

Many newer BMW vehicles, including the BMW X3 and the BMW X5, feature remote start as a downloadable function through the vehicle's infotainment system. The system allows drivers to use their key fobs or a smartphone app to start the engine. Here's how the remote start function works on a BMW.

BMW Remote Start Is a Paid Service

The ConnectedDrive system, common on 2019 and newer BMW models, enables remote engine starts using a key fob or via the My BMW app on a smartphone. Like many other subscription-based ConnectedDrive functions, remote start requires a purchase from BMW's online ConnectedDrive Store, which is similar to Apple's App Store. In this case, it's a one-time purchase, or the services can be rented for use in monthly or yearly increments.

BMW remote start is only compatible with vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission and four- or six-cylinder gasoline engines. Once you order the function, the software downloads to your car automatically.

A BMW's Screen, a Phone, or a Key Fob Can Be Used

BMW remote start settings exist under the climate control portion of the iDrive infotainment control system's car settings. That in-car, on-screen system allows you to start the car remotely at a set time so you can help precondition the vehicle's climate. For instance, you can set it every day before you head to work.

You can then control remote start functions through the My BMW app or by using the standard BMW key fob. On the app, drivers can press the "start climatization" icon on the screen and the vehicle will start. App users can also use the climate control timer function to pick a one-time preset time to remote start the vehicle.

To start a BMW with a key fob, the fob must be within close range of the vehicle. Quickly press the lock button three times in a row and the vehicle will start. The app and the key fob also allow the engine to be remotely turned off with three clicks on the key fob lock button.

Time Limits Restrict BMW's Remote Start

After a remote start, the heating or air-conditioning system will operate at a preset temperature for up to 15 minutes before turning off. The system will also only allow you to remote start your vehicle two times in sequence, after which you'll need to start the engine from inside the vehicle.

To drive away, drivers must have either the physical key fob or the smartphone-based BMW digital key in the vehicle.

Andy Stonehouse

For more than 20 years, Andy has been writing about automobiles from a home base in Colorado, with great driving roads, mountain trails, and ever-changing seasonal conditions for real-world tests. Prior to his work with Capital One, he spent a half decade as cars columnist for Ski Magazine, and he continues to write automotive coverage for ski-resort media in Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, and Vail — home of downhill stars Lindsay Vonn and Mikaela Shiffrin. When he's not praying for a powder day, he enjoys any high-speed moments he can get on the Centennial State's increasingly crowded byways.