If your BMW’s remote start suddenly stopped working after a recent software update, you’re not alone. Dozens of BMW owners have experienced this issue—where the feature disappears from the app or no longer works with the key fob. The good news? Most of the time, it’s fixable in minutes. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Remote Start Breaks After an Update
Right after a BMW software update, some personal settings—including remote start—can reset to factory defaults. That means even though the hardware and subscription are still active, the system disables the feature until it’s manually re-enabled in iDrive.
“I had to go in and update my settings. When you upgrade the software it deletes and goes back to factory settings, so I had to start reestablishing my auto start.” – Reddit user Deddit2020
This is especially common with updates that involve the climate control or preconditioning modules. Fortunately, the fix is straightforward.
How to Re-Enable BMW Remote Start After an Update
Follow these steps to get remote start working again:
- Start your car and access the main infotainment screen.
- Go to Settings > Climate Control > Preconditioning.
- Locate the option called Remote Engine Start.
- Check the box to enable it again.
“I’ve had to go back into settings – climate control – preconditioning – and select remote engine start. After doing this, remote start works from the fob.” – Reddit user justheretohelpyou__
Once enabled, the system should recognize remote start commands from both the MyBMW app and the key fob.
Still Not Working? Try These Fixes
If you’ve already re-checked your settings and it’s still not working, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Restart the infotainment system: Hold the volume knob for about 30 seconds until the screen resets.
- Log out and back into the MyBMW app: Sometimes the app loses sync with the vehicle after an update.
- Check subscription status: Remote start requires an active BMW ConnectedDrive package.
- Ensure key fob battery is strong: Low battery can prevent command signals.
“Having the same problem but my remote start box is checked in the infotainment. When I get into the car it says remote ventilation disabled on my dash.” – Reddit user momoslick
If you’re seeing “remote ventilation disabled” or similar errors, it could be a temporary software sync issue. These typically clear after a few restarts or reboots.
Understanding BMW Remote Start Requirements
For remote start to function properly, several system conditions must be met:
- Your vehicle must support remote engine start (check your VIN on BMW’s official site).
- Remote start must be legally allowed in your country or state (some regions restrict it).
- Your subscription to ConnectedDrive or MyBMW must be current.
- Remote start must be enabled in the iDrive menu after updates or resets.
BMW disables the setting during updates as a precaution, especially if related modules (climate, security, safety) were patched.
Key Fob vs MyBMW App: Same Problem, Same Fix
Whether you’re trying to use the remote start from the app or the fob, both functions rely on the same core setting being active. If it’s disabled—even by a reset—neither method will work until you turn it back on in iDrive.
This is why some users think the app is broken, when in fact the car is just not accepting commands due to a missing configuration.
Dealer Not Required (Usually)
Most of the time, there’s no need to visit a dealer or pay for diagnostics. Re-enabling the feature through your infotainment system resolves the issue 90% of the time. However, if none of the steps above work, and your app or iDrive continues to throw errors, it could be a sign of:
- A corrupted update installation
- Disconnected BMW ID from your driver profile
- Loss of ConnectedDrive functionality requiring reactivation
In those cases, contact BMW support or schedule a visit with a local service center to perform a diagnostic check or system refresh.
Final Thoughts
BMW’s software updates are supposed to improve vehicle functionality, but they sometimes disrupt existing features like remote start. If you’ve recently updated your car and remote start stopped working, the fix is usually as simple as toggling it back on in the climate control settings.
Before panicking or booking a dealer visit, take a few minutes to explore your iDrive menus. You’ll likely save time—and money—by restoring the feature yourself.
Need more help with BMW tech quirks? Drop your experience in the comments or check our next guide on restoring ConnectedDrive services after a reset.