Does The BMW X3 Have Remote Start? Availability & Functionality.

Remote start is one of the most popular and convenient features available in many modern vehicles today, allowing drivers to start their engine and begin heating or cooling the cabin from the comfort of their home or office. But what about BMW X3 owners – does the BMW X3 come equipped with remote start functionality?

The short answer is yes, remote start is available as an option on most BMW X3 model years and trims and comes standard on higher performance models including the X3 M40i, X3 M, and X3 M Competition. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything potential and current X3 owners need to know about the availability, operation, range, smartphone app connectivity, troubleshooting tips, and overall benefits of BMW’s remote start system.

Overview of Remote Start and Why It’s Useful

For those unfamiliar with what exactly remote start entails, it is a system that allows you to start your vehicle’s engine and activate the climate control system from extended distances using your key fob or smartphone app. This allows your vehicle to warm up in colder months or cool down in warmer areas, ensuring comfort upon entry. It also helps defrost snow- and ice-covered windows in winter.

Additional benefits include:

Extended vehicle range – preheating or precooling the cabin puts less demand on the engine, improving EV range and fuel efficiency.
Engine longevity – a warmed up engine experiences less wear and tear before driving.
Security deterrent – the sound and exhaust of an idling engine can deter potential thieves.

Now that we know the basics of what remote start offers, let’s look at availability across BMW X3 model years and trims.

Availability of Remote Start in Different BMW X3 Models

Remote start was introduced by BMW in 2009 and has been offered in some form on most model years since, though take rates and exact functionality have varied. Here’s a quick look at availability on new and used X3 models:

2009-2010 – Not available
2011-2015 – Optional as standalone option or part of Premium or Technology packages
2016-2018 – Optional as standalone option or part of Premium package
2019 – Standard on xDrive30i, available as option for sDrive30i
2020-2023 – Standard on X3 M40i, X3 M, X3 M Competition; optional for xDrive30i, sDrive30i, and xDrive30e

Remote start requires the Comfort Access keyless entry feature to work. So if you have a key fob but not the proximity smart key system, your X3 will not have full remote start functionality.

How Does the BMW X3 Remote Start System Work?

Using remote start on your BMW X3 is simple. Here are the basic steps:

Ensure doors are closed and locked – the engine will not start remotely if the vehicle is unlocked.
Press the lock button 3 times on your key fob within a few seconds – the hazard lights will flash to confirm engine start.
Climate activates, runs for 10 minutes – the engine and climate control will run for up to 10 minutes before shutting down unless extended.
Push button start when ready – when you enter the vehicle, push button start as normal. No need to restart the engine.

The climate control system activates using the last settings for temperature, fan speed, and vent position. So if you know it will be cold in the morning, set the heat high the night before.

One tip is to lightly press the brake upon entry which extends the remote start runtime by an additional 10 minutes if you need a few extra minutes of warmup time.

What is the Remote Start Range on the BMW X3?

The effective range for remote start operation depends on a few factors:

Key fob range – approximately 300-500 feet depending on obstructions between the key and vehicle.
Smartphone app range – remote start is possible anywhere with cellular signal. More on the app in the next section.
Amplified antennas – Some owners install amplified antennas to boost fob signal strength and extend range.

Keep in mind the range may be shorter in dense urban areas with more sources of interference. For maximum range, avoid keeping your key fob close to other electronic devices.

Controlling Your BMW X3 Remotely with the Connected App

In addition to the standard key fob functionality, owners with BMW ConnectedDrive can remote start, lock/unlock doors, flash lights, honk the horn, and check status on their X3 using the BMW Connected smartphone app.

Key features include:

Remote start and stop your X3 from anywhere with cellular signal.
Extend your runtime in 10 minute increments.
See vehicle status – fuel level, mileage, service info, and more
Sound the alarm and flash lights to help locate your X3.
Send destinations to your X3 navigation system before entering your vehicle.

The BMW Connected app is available as a free download for iPhone and Android devices. Enrollment in BMW ConnectedDrive is included for new vehicles and available as a paid subscription on older models.

Troubleshooting BMW X3 Remote Start Issues

While the remote start system is generally reliable, owners may occasionally encounter issues. Here are some tips to troubleshoot common problems:

Non-responsive key fob – Start with the basics and check the key fob battery. Replace it if low. Also try re-pairing the key if disconnected from the vehicle.
Engine doesn’t start – Ensure all doors, hood, and trunk are fully closed and locked. There cannot be any openings. Also check that the brake isn’t depressed.
Short remote range – Check for low key fob battery, interference from other devices, or antenna issues. An amplified antenna can help.
App not connecting – Ensure your ConnectedDrive subscription is active, try force quitting and reopening the app, and check for phone OS updates.

For any persistent issues, the best bet is to have your BMW service center diagnose the cause. Remote start systems can fail due to faulty antennas, bad control modules, and other issues.

Why Remote Start is a Must-Have BMW X3 Feature?

Now that we’ve covered the key basics, it’s easy to see why remote start is a very popular option among BMW X3 owners who experience cold winter months or hot summer days. Here’s a quick summary of the benefits:

Comfort – Enter a perfectly heated or cooled cabin every time, right from your doorstep.
Convenience – No need to go outside until your vehicle is ready and waiting.
Efficiency – Presample heating and cooling saves fuel and extends EV range.
Engine Protection – Allows the engine to warm up before driving, reducing wear.
Security – An idling vehicle can deter theft.
Resale Value – Remote start remains one of the most sought-after luxury features among used car buyers.

While not essential, remote start adds an extra level of convenience and comfort that perfectly complements the premium driving experience BMW X3 owners have come to expect. For most owners who experience temperature extremes, the benefits easily justify the reasonable option cost.

Is the Remote Start System Worth the Cost on Your BMW X3?

For shoppers looking at new or used BMW X3 models, deciding whether to get a version equipped with remote start comes down to your individual needs and climate:

Frequent extreme cold or heat – Remote start becomes very useful and worth the cost if you regularly experience frigid winters or sweltering summers. Preheating or precooling the cabin is a game changer.
Limited extreme temps – In more temperate climates, remote start offers less day-to-day function. It remains a nice premium feature but becomes harder to justify the expense.
Tight budget – Opting against remote start can save you a few hundred dollars upfront on purchase price. However, it does reduce convenience and resale value.

Unless you live year-round in perfect 70 degree (21C) weather, remote start capability is a great feature to have in your BMW X3. For frequent cold and hot weather drivers, it’s an absolute must-have.

Conclusion

The ability to start your vehicle’s engine and climate control system remotely from your smartphone or key fob is certainly a luxury feature, but one that also provides real everyday benefits. For most BMW X3 owners who face cold winter months or blistering summer heat, having the ability to preheat or precool the cabin before entry provides extra comfort, convenience and even extends vehicle range. While not essential, remote start enhances the overall ownership experience.

We hope this guide provided everything existing or prospective X3 owners need to know about the availability, operation, troubleshooting and overall usefulness of remote start functionality on BMW’s popular compact luxury SUV. Just remember the basics – it’s available on most models, requires Comfort Access, provides 10 minutes of runtime and can be extended, controlled via key fob or app, and is most worthwhile for owners in temperature extremes. Stay cozy and drive happy!