For years, BMW owners have relied on the BMW Connected app for remote vehicle functions, including remote start. But what about the traditional key fob? A recent discussion among BMW iX owners on the Bimmerpost forum sparked a debate: can you actually remote start your BMW iX using just the key fob? Let’s delve into this convenient feature and explore what BMW iX drivers need to know about Remote Start Bmw Key Fob functionality.
It appears many BMW iX owners, like the original poster “Young04” on Bimmerpost, were surprised to discover that their key fob could indeed initiate remote start, or as BMW terms it, “remote climatize.” Young04, driving a 2023 BMW iX M60, stumbled upon this feature accidentally, questioning if it had always been available. This discovery highlights a potential gap in common knowledge, even among seasoned BMW enthusiasts.
The method to activate the remote start via key fob is surprisingly simple: press the BMW logo button on your key fob three times. This action, after locking the vehicle, reportedly triggers the pre-conditioning system, allowing you to heat or cool your BMW’s interior before you even step inside. Several forum members, including “javapro,” confirmed this functionality, demonstrating it works on their BMW iX models.
However, there’s a crucial detail to consider. “freshxdough,” identified as a BMW Elite Master Tech on the forum, suggested this key fob remote start might be a feature introduced with a specific software package, potentially “SP21.” This could explain why some models, like the original poster’s wife’s 2023 i4 M50, might not have the same key fob remote start capability. It seems this feature could be more prevalent in newer BMW models like the iX, 7 Series, and the latest 5 Series.
While the BMW Connected app offers remote start from virtually anywhere with a cellular connection, the key fob method provides a valuable alternative. As pointed out by Young04, app connectivity isn’t always reliable, especially in areas with poor cell service. Furthermore, relying on the app for remote functions can sometimes be hindered by the vehicle’s 12V battery status. In such situations, the key fob remote start emerges as a dependable backup, ensuring you can still pre-condition your BMW when app control is unavailable.
In conclusion, it seems remote start via the BMW key fob is indeed a functional feature for the BMW iX, offering a convenient way to climatize your vehicle. While potentially software-dependent and perhaps not available on all BMW models, it’s a valuable tool to be aware of, especially when app-based remote start is not ideal. For BMW iX owners and those interested in maximizing their key fob functionalities, exploring this feature is definitely worthwhile.
