How to Remotely Start a BMW 5 Series?
4 Answers
To remotely start a BMW 5 Series, you need to download the BMW Connected App and then activate the feature at a 4S store. Remote start allows the vehicle to activate the engine or motor via signals from the remote key, eliminating the inconvenience of manually entering the car and providing enhanced safety. The BMW 5 Series is a product of the German automaker BMW, positioned as a mid-size sedan with dimensions of 4998mm in length, 1901mm in width, and 1559mm in height, and a wheelbase of 3108mm. The car features BMW's iconic design elements, with a sleek and elegant body, dynamic and sporty lines, and precise panel gaps, presenting an overall stable and sophisticated appearance.
Actually, I've researched the remote start feature for the BMW 5 Series. The key is whether your car comes with ConnectedDrive services. My 530Li can be operated directly through the official app: first open the My BMW app on your phone, log in to your account, tap the 'Climate Control' option in the middle of the bottom menu, then select 'Engine Start'. Two important notes: first, the vehicle must be in a locked state, and second, the distance shouldn't exceed 1 kilometer. It's especially useful in summer - starting the car five minutes before going downstairs automatically activates the seat ventilation, bringing the interior temperature down to around 26°C. However, if you forget to renew the ConnectedDrive subscription, this feature will stop working. Older models might require an additional remote temperature control module to be installed.
Having worked in car detailing for over a decade, I've helped many 5 Series owners adjust this feature. It must be a model with ConnectedDrive (newer models with the 7th digit of the VIN being B or G onwards), and it can be done in three steps: Install the My BMW app on your phone and complete the vehicle information authentication; go to the 'Services' page, find the engine start icon, and long-press until the countdown ends; success is indicated by the vehicle honking and hazard lights flashing. Starting it 15 minutes in advance allows for proper engine lubrication and also activates the air circulation. However, some customers have encountered startup failures, mostly due to signal interference or the battery charge being below 50%, so be mindful of that.
Last time when I forgot my keys while dropping off the kids, I had a quick idea to use remote start. BMW 5 Series owners should try the hidden feature on the key fob—hold the lock button for three seconds, then quickly press the diamond button (the one with three curved lines) twice. If the lights flash, it means it worked. However, I later found the app to be more reliable: open the climate preset interface, set the temperature and time, and the engine will automatically warm up at 7 AM daily. Remember to check the ‘Remote Engine Start’ option in the iDrive system, or pressing the buttons won’t do anything. My friend accidentally pressed the start button once, but the engine automatically shut off after 30 minutes, so no fuel was wasted.
