How To Determine If Your BMW Has Remote Start?

Remote start is a convenient feature that allows you to start your car’s engine from a distance with just the push of a button on your key fob. But with so many BMW models and package options, how do you know if your specific BMW comes equipped with remote start capability?

The quick answer is: most newer BMW models can be purchased with remote start, but it often requires getting a premium package.

Keep reading as we outline exactly which BMW models and packages include remote start, and how to operate the remote engine starter on your key fob.

Check Your Model Year and Trim Package

The first step in determining if your BMW has remote start is to look at the model year and trim package.

Remote start became more widely available as an option on many BMW models beginning around 2007. Since then, most model years have had remote start available, at least as part of an optional package.

Here are some of the key BMW models and years that commonly have remote start:

Key Models That Include Remote Start

3 Series – 2007 and newer
5 Series – 2007 and newer
6 Series – 2007 and newer
7 Series – 2007 and newer
X3 – 2007 and newer
X5 – 2007 and newer
X6 – 2008 and newer
M Models – 2008 and newer

So if you have a 2007 or newer BMW, there’s a good chance your model and year could have come equipped with remote start from the factory.

Now, even for the above years and models, remote start was usually an add-on option that required getting a premium package. The base models did not come standard with remote start.

Packages That Add Remote Start

Here are some of the common BMW packages and options you would need to get in order to add remote start:

Premium Package – The premium package available on many models includes remote start. For example, on 2012-2015 3 Series, the Premium Package adds remote start.
Cold Weather Package – On some models, like the X3, the Cold Weather Package is required to get remote start.
Convenience Package – Various convenience packages, especially on newer models like the 7 Series, add remote start.
Technology Package – High-end tech packages on models like the 5 Series (F10 generation) include remote start.
Executive Package – Top-tier packages aimed at luxury amenities often include remote start as a feature.
Driver Assistance Package – Some driver assistance packages bundle remote start as part of parking and convenience features.

So in summary, if you have a 2007 or newer BMW, check for packages with names like Premium, Cold Weather, Convenience, Technology, Executive, or Driver Assistance. If you got any of these upgraded packages, remote start should be included.

Using Your BMW Key Fob For Remote Start

If you’ve determined your BMW is equipped with factory remote start, here is how you can use the key fob remote starter:

Starting Your BMW Remotely

The remote start button is located on your BMW smart key fob. It’s typically labeled with a circular arrow icon.

To start your BMW remotely:

Press the lock button on the key fob first. The vehicle must be locked to enable remote start.
Then immediately press and hold the remote start button for 2-3 seconds.
Your BMW parking lights will flash to confirm the engine has started remotely.
Once started, the engine will run for a preset time of 10-15 minutes before shutting off automatically.

Remote Start Distance and Runtime

Most BMW key fobs will work for remote start at a distance of up to 300-400 feet away. This gives you plenty of range to start your car as you’re exiting a building and walking to the parking lot.

As mentioned above, the remote start engine runtime is limited to 10-15 minutes on BMW models. This prevents accidental extended idling. If you plan to drive right away, the runtime limit won’t be an issue. But if you want an extended warm-up or cool-down time on hot or cold days, you’ll need to restart the engine remotely when the auto shutoff occurs.

Some aftermarket remote start systems can extend the runtime beyond 15 minutes if desired.

Aftermarket Remote Start Options

If you determined your BMW is not equipped with factory remote start, not to worry. Many reliable aftermarket remote start kits are available to add to your BMW if it didn’t come with the feature from the factory.

Professional installation is recommended, but BMW models without complex digital security systems can sometimes be self-installed.

Some top aftermarket remote start brands for BMW include:

Viper – A popular brand that makes specific BMW remote start kits. Systems start around $250.
Avital – Known for reliable, full-featured remote start systems. Kits start around $150.
Compustar – High-end kits with smartphone app control and extended range. Around $300 and up.

When choosing an aftermarket system, be sure to get the proper kit designed and compatible for your BMW model year and body style. The remote start has to be tailored to your specific BMW’s computer and electronics.

Also factor in the cost of professional installation if not doing it yourself. Prices typically start around $125 for remote start installation.

Manual Transmission Considerations

The vast majority of BMW models have automatic transmissions. But if you have a manual transmission BMW, you have a couple extra considerations for remote start:

Manual Safety – Remote starters on manual transmissions use safety features like clutch detection to prevent accidentally starting while in gear.
Limited Runtime – Manual transmission remote runtime is usually shorter, around 5-7 minutes, due to safety limitations.
Specialized Install – Proper setup requires clutch bypass wiring done during installation. Don’t attempt a self-install on a manual car.

So in summary, manual BMW models can still be equipped with remote start, you just need a proper manual transmission system and professional installation. Expect around $400 total for parts and labor.

Conclusion

Knowing if your BMW has built-in remote start is just a matter of checking your model, year, and package options. Most newer BMWs can be purchased with key fob remote start capability through premium packages. If your BMW didn’t come with remote start, high-quality aftermarket systems are available for most models.

Just be sure to get a system compatible with your manual or automatic transmission. With remote start added to your BMW, you’ll always be able to conveniently warm up or cool down your car before hitting the road.