Remote start functionality has become a highly sought-after feature for BMW X3 owners, especially for those living in regions with extreme temperatures. Starting your vehicle remotely allows you to precondition the cabin before entering, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather outside. But does the BMW X3 actually have remote start capability? The answer varies depending on your model year, trim level, and whether you’ve purchased certain digital services.
BMW X3 Remote Start Availability by Model Year
Remote start capability varies across different BMW X3 generations and model years. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of remote start availability:
| Generation | Model Years | Remote Start Availability | Notes |
| G01 (Current) | 2018-Present | Available | Requires Connected Drive subscription and compatible engine |
| F25 | 2011-2017 | Not Available Factory | Aftermarket solutions only |
| E83 | 2004-2010 | Not Available Factory | Aftermarket solutions only |
For current generation (G01) BMW X3 models, remote start is available as either a factory option or as a digital service that can be purchased through the BMW Connected Drive Store. However, there are some important requirements to note:
- Your X3 must have an automatic transmission (all US models do)
- Compatible with four- or six-cylinder gasoline engines
- Requires active Connected Drive services
- Must have iDrive 7.0 or newer operating system
- Remote Engine Start option code (1CR) or digital purchase
Check Your BMW X3 Remote Start Compatibility
Not sure if your BMW X3 has remote start capability? Enter your VIN on the official BMW Connected Drive portal to check your vehicle’s features and available upgrades.
How BMW X3 Remote Start Works
The BMW X3 remote start system can be controlled through two primary methods: the key fob and the My BMW smartphone app. Each method has its own advantages and limitations.
Key Fob Remote Start
To start your BMW X3 using the key fob:
- Ensure you’re within range of your vehicle (typically 100-300 feet)
- Press the lock button on your key fob once to lock the vehicle
- Press the lock button three times in quick succession
- The vehicle will start and run for up to 15 minutes
- To turn off the engine remotely, press the lock button three times again
The key fob method is convenient when you’re within visual range of your vehicle but has limited range compared to the app method.
My BMW App Remote Start
To start your BMW X3 using the My BMW app:
- Open the My BMW app on your smartphone
- Select your BMW X3 from your garage
- Tap on the “Climate Control” or “Remote Engine Start” icon
- Confirm that you want to start the engine
- The app will display the status of your vehicle
The app method offers virtually unlimited range as long as both your phone and vehicle have internet connectivity, making it ideal for starting your X3 from anywhere.
Important: After using remote start, you must insert your key fob into the vehicle or have your BMW Digital Key on your smartphone to drive the vehicle. The engine will automatically shut off if you attempt to drive without proper authentication.
BMW Connected Drive Subscription Requirements
To use remote start functionality on your BMW X3, you’ll need an active BMW Connected Drive subscription with the appropriate services package. Here’s what you need to know about the subscription requirements:
Connected Package Professional
This is the comprehensive package that includes Remote Services, which enables remote start functionality. The package typically includes:
- Remote Engine Start
- Remote Door Lock/Unlock
- Remote Climate Control
- Vehicle Location Services
- Send-to-Car Navigation
For newer BMW X3 models (2019+), this package is often included for the first 4 years of ownership, after which a subscription renewal is required.
Purchasing Remote Start as a Digital Service
If your BMW X3 didn’t come with remote start from the factory, you may be able to purchase it as a digital service through the BMW Connected Drive Store. This option is available for compatible G01 X3 models (2018+) with the necessary hardware already installed.
One-Time Purchase
BMW offers remote start as a one-time purchase for approximately $330 (plus applicable taxes). Once purchased, the feature is permanently enabled on your vehicle.
Subscription Option
Alternatively, you can subscribe to the Connected Package Professional, which includes remote start along with other connected services. Subscription prices typically range from $50-$200 per year depending on the specific package.
Purchase Remote Start for Your BMW X3
Already own a compatible BMW X3? Visit the Connected Drive Store to purchase remote start functionality and enjoy the convenience of preconditioning your vehicle.
How to Activate Remote Start on Your BMW X3
Once you have purchased remote start functionality, you’ll need to activate it in your vehicle’s settings. Follow these step-by-step instructions to enable remote start on your BMW X3:
- Update Connected Drive ServicesAfter purchasing remote start, you’ll need to refresh your vehicle’s Connected Drive services:
- In your BMW X3, navigate to the “Installed Apps” section in iDrive
- Press the “Options” button on the iDrive controller while hovering over the Installed Apps tab
- Select “Refresh All Services” from the menu
- Wait for the services to update (this may trigger a software update)
- Enable Remote Start in Vehicle SettingsAfter the services update, you need to enable remote start in your climate control settings:
- Navigate to “Car Settings” in the iDrive system
- Select “Climate Control”
- Choose “Preconditioning/Ventilation”
- Enable the “Remote Engine Start” option
- Set Up the My BMW AppTo use remote start via your smartphone:
- Download the My BMW app from the App Store or Google Play
- Log in with your BMW ConnectedDrive account
- Add your BMW X3 to your garage if not already present
- Verify that the remote start icon appears in the climate control section
Pro Tip: After a software update, remote start may be disabled by default. Always check your climate control settings after any vehicle software update to ensure remote start remains enabled.
Aftermarket Remote Start Alternatives for BMW X3
If your BMW X3 model doesn’t support the factory remote start option or if you own an older generation (F25 or E83), you might consider aftermarket remote start solutions. Here are some options to consider:
Professional Installation Systems
These systems are installed by certified automotive electronics specialists and offer the most seamless integration with your BMW X3’s systems.
Advantages
- Professional installation ensures reliability
- Often includes smartphone control options
- Maintains most factory security features
- Typically comes with warranty coverage
Disadvantages
- Higher cost ($400-$800+ installed)
- May require dealer visits for troubleshooting
- Could potentially affect vehicle warranty
BMW-Specific Aftermarket Systems
These systems are designed specifically for BMW vehicles and offer better integration with your X3’s electronics and security systems.
Advantages
- Designed specifically for BMW electrical systems
- Better integration with factory features
- Often includes BMW-specific smartphone apps
- Less likely to trigger error codes
Disadvantages
- Higher cost than universal systems
- Limited availability compared to universal options
- May still void aspects of vehicle warranty
Universal Remote Start Kits
These more affordable options can work with many vehicles but may require professional installation despite being marketed as DIY-friendly.
Advantages
- Lower cost ($150-$300 for the system)
- Widely available from many retailers
- Often include extended range options
- Some DIY installation possible for experienced users
Disadvantages
- Less integration with BMW systems
- May trigger error codes or warning lights
- Installation challenges with BMW’s complex electronics
- Higher risk of warranty issues
Warning: Installing aftermarket remote start systems on BMW vehicles can be complex due to their sophisticated electronics and security systems. We strongly recommend professional installation by technicians experienced with BMW vehicles to avoid potential damage or security issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About BMW X3 Remote Start
What is the range limit for BMW X3 remote start?
When using the key fob method, the range is typically 100-300 feet, depending on environmental conditions and obstacles. When using the My BMW app, the range is unlimited as long as both your phone and vehicle have internet connectivity.
How long will my BMW X3 run after remote starting?
The BMW X3 will run for approximately 15 minutes after being remote started. After this time, the engine will automatically shut off to conserve fuel and reduce emissions. You can restart it for another 15-minute cycle if needed, but BMW limits this to two consecutive remote starts before requiring a normal start with the key in the vehicle.
Does remote start work with the BMW X3 hybrid models?
The official BMW remote start feature is primarily designed for gasoline engine models. The BMW X3 xDrive30e plug-in hybrid has different remote climate control options that can precondition the cabin using the high-voltage battery without starting the combustion engine. This is managed through the same My BMW app but functions differently than traditional remote start.
Will remote start drain my BMW X3’s battery?
Remote start should not significantly drain your vehicle’s battery during normal operation since the engine is running and charging the battery. However, frequent use of remote start for very short periods without driving the vehicle afterward could potentially lead to battery drain over time. BMW’s system includes safeguards to prevent excessive battery drain.
Can I drive my BMW X3 immediately after remote starting it?
No, you cannot drive the vehicle immediately after remote starting it without proper authentication. You must have your key fob inside the vehicle or your BMW Digital Key on your smartphone. When you enter the vehicle after remote start, you’ll need to press the start/stop button with your foot on the brake pedal to transition from remote start mode to drive mode.
What happens if I lose my internet connection while using the app for remote start?
If you lose internet connectivity while attempting to use the My BMW app for remote start, the command will not be sent to the vehicle. However, if the command was already sent successfully before losing connection, the vehicle will still execute the remote start. You can always use the key fob method as a backup when internet connectivity is unavailable.
Still Have Questions?
Contact your local BMW dealer for specific information about remote start compatibility and options for your BMW X3 model.
Conclusion: Is BMW X3 Remote Start Worth It?
Remote start functionality for the BMW X3 offers significant convenience, especially for owners in regions with extreme temperatures. The ability to precondition your vehicle’s cabin before entering ensures comfort year-round and can help extend the life of your vehicle’s systems by allowing them to warm up properly in cold weather.
For owners of 2018+ BMW X3 models with compatible engines, the official BMW remote start option provides the most seamless experience with both key fob and smartphone control options. While the additional cost (either as a factory option or digital purchase) may seem significant, many owners find the convenience well worth the investment.
Owners of older BMW X3 models still have options through aftermarket systems, though these come with their own considerations regarding installation, warranty, and integration. Whatever route you choose, remote start capability adds both convenience and comfort to your BMW X3 ownership experience.
