New Year Sale

Hurry
00
00
00
00
UP!
✨ Get 5% Discount on all Products | Shop Now →

BMW Remote Start Not Working | Causes & Solutions

BMW Remote Start Not Working | Causes & Solutions

BMW’s remote start is a convenient feature that allows drivers to warm up or cool down their car before entering. However, if your BMW remote start is not working, there could be several reasons behind it. In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes and provide practical solutions to fix them.


Common Causes of BMW Remote Start Issues

1. Remote Start Feature Not Enabled

Many BMW models require the remote start function to be activated in the iDrive system.

Solution:

  • Go to iDrive Settings > Climate Control > Pre-conditioning/ventilation and enable remote start.
  • If you don’t see the option, your vehicle might not support remote start, or it needs coding.

2. Key Fob Battery is Weak or Dead

A weak key fob battery can prevent the remote start system from working properly.

Solution:

  • Replace the key fob battery with a new CR2032 coin battery.
  • Stand closer to the vehicle while trying remote start.

3. Hood or Doors Not Properly Closed

For safety reasons, BMW’s remote start will not work if the hood, doors, or trunk are open or not fully closed.

Solution:

  • Ensure all doors, the hood, and the trunk are fully closed.
  • If the issue persists, check the hood latch sensor for malfunctions.

4. Vehicle is Not in Park Mode

BMW’s remote start system requires the vehicle to be in Park (P) with the parking brake engaged.

Solution:

  • Make sure the gear is in Park and the parking brake is properly engaged.

5. Low Fuel Level

Remote start will not activate if the fuel level is too low, as a precautionary measure.

Solution:

  • Add more fuel and try using the remote to start again.

6. BMW Remote Start Timer Expired

Some BMWs have a remote start timer that deactivates the system after a certain period.

Solution:

  • Restart the vehicle manually and attempt to use remote start again.

7. Faulty Sensors or Software Glitch

A malfunctioning temperature sensor, battery sensor, or outdated software could be the culprit.

Solution:

  • Check the BMW ConnectedDrive App for software updates.
  • Schedule a BMW diagnostic scan to detect faulty sensors.

8. Aftermarket Remote Start System Issues

If you have an aftermarket remote start system, improper installation or incompatibility with your BMW can cause issues.

Solution:

  • Have a professional BMW technician inspect the system for wiring issues.

How to Fix BMW Remote Start Not Working?

Step 1: Ensure remote start is activated in iDrive.
Step 2: Check the key fob battery and replace it if necessary.
Step 3: Confirm that all doors, the hood, and the trunk are properly closed.
Step 4: Make sure your BMW is in Park and has enough fuel.
Step 5: Update your BMW software via the ConnectedDrive app.
Step 6: If the problem persists, consult a BMW expert or a Bimmer Navigation specialist for assistance.

Need Help with BMW Navigation & Software Updates?

At Bimmer Navigation, we specialize in BMW map updates, software upgrades, and coding services. If your remote start isn’t working due to software issues, we can help!

Contact Us Today for expert BMW navigation and coding solutions!

Email Newsletter
Best Sellers
Newsletter

Our vision is rooted in the belief that every BMW and MINI owner deserves an exclusive customer experience, especially when it comes to upgrading and maintaining their vehicle’s navigation system. Whether you’re exploring options for a BMW navigation system update, a MINI Cooper map upgrade, or need help choosing the right FSC Code for your vehicle, our dedicated sales and support team is here to assist.

BMW and MINI are registered trademarks of Bayerische Motoren Werke AG.

Bimmer Navigation is not affiliated with BMW AG in any way. We are independent BMW/MINI specialist and we are not apart of the BMW AG in any way or form.

Design & Developed By Cloudminds

© 2026 Bimmer. All Right Reserved

Scroll to Top

Order with confidence. We verify your VIN to ensure you receive the absolute latest official update released for your specific vehicle and region.

You will receive the complete package:

  • Latest Map Data (Verified for your Head Unit)
  • VIN-Tied FSC Code (Lifetime Activation)

Available Map Versions

Regions

Latest Available Versions

North America

Evo 2025-2, Way 2025-2, JOY 2025-3, Live 2025-4, Next 2025, Premium 2023, Route 2022-2, Move 2022

Europe (East & West)

Evo 2025-2, Way 2026-1, JOY 2025-3, Live 2025-4, Premium 2025-2, Next 2025, Route 2025, Motion 2024, Move 2024

Australia / NZ

Evo 2025, Way 2024, Live 2025-1, Next 2023, Premium 2020, Route 2024, Motion 2021, Move 2017

Middle East

Evo 2025, Way 2025, JOY 2025-2, Live 2025-2, Premium 2020, Next 2023, Route 2020, Motion 2019

Israel

Evo 2020-1, Live 2025, Next 2019, Route 2019

Turkey

Evo 2023, JOY 2025, Premium 2020, Next 2020-1, Route 2019-2

South America

Evo 2020-1, Way 2024, Live 2025-1, Premium 2021, Next 2020, Route 2020, Move 2018

Argentina

Evo 2019-1, Next 2020, Route 2020

Southeast Asia

Evo 2025, Way 2026, JOY 2025-1, Live 2025-1, Premium 2021, Next 2023, Route 2020

India

Evo 2025, JOY 2025-2, Premium 2018, Next 2020-1, Route 2019-1

China / HK / Macau

Evo 2019-3, Premium 2019-2, Next 2019-2

Japan

Evo 2019-2, Premium 2019, Next 2019

Korea

Evo 2018-4, Premium 2019, Next 2019-2

Taiwan

Evo 2019-2, Premium 2020, Next 2020

Central Asia

JOY 2025

North Africa

Way 2023, Evo 2023, Next 2022, Route 2022

South Africa

Evo 2024, Premium 2020, Next 2023, Route 2020, Motion 2019