how to fix the remote start not working on my BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024)

BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024)

Error Codes

1-3 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

585 words

Problem Statement

The remote start feature is not functioning on a BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024), preventing the vehicle from starting remotely.

Estimated Time

1-3 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems to avoid short circuits.
•Allow the vehicle to cool before inspecting the engine components.

Symptoms

•Remote start button does not activate the engine
•No response from the key fob when attempting to start
•No indicator lights or sounds when the remote start is attempted
•Check engine light illuminated (if related to the remote start system)
•Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check the battery charge of the key fob using a multimeter.
2
Verify that the vehicle is in "Park" and all doors are closed securely.
3
Inspect the vehicle’s battery and charging system for faults.
4
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes related to the starting system.
5
Confirm that the remote start feature is enabled in the vehicle settings via the iDrive system.
6
Check for any software updates available for the vehicle that may affect the remote start feature.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and that the engine is off.
•Disconnect the battery to ensure safety when working on electrical components.

Parts Required

•CR2032 battery (if needed)
•Vehicle battery (if replacement is necessary)

Related Faults

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Symptoms

•Remote start button does not activate the engine

•No response from the key fob when attempting to start

•No indicator lights or sounds when the remote start is attempted

•Check engine light illuminated (if related to the remote start system)

•Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check the battery charge of the key fob using a multimeter.
2
Verify that the vehicle is in "Park" and all doors are closed securely.
3
Inspect the vehicle’s battery and charging system for faults.
4
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes related to the starting system.
5
Confirm that the remote start feature is enabled in the vehicle settings via the iDrive system.
6
Check for any software updates available for the vehicle that may affect the remote start feature.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: OBD-II scanner, multimeter, screwdriver set, torque wrench.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and that the engine is off.
Disconnect the battery to ensure safety when working on electrical components.

2. Inspect Key Fob

Sub-steps:
1. Open the key fob using a small screwdriver.
2. Remove the battery and test it with a multimeter. It should show a voltage of around 3V.
3. If the battery is low, replace it with a new CR2032 battery.
4. Reassemble the key fob and re-test the remote start function.

3. Check Vehicle Battery and Charging System

Sub-steps:
1. Use the multimeter to check the vehicle's battery voltage; it should read between 12.4V to 12.7V when the engine is off.
2. If the voltage is low, charge the battery or replace it if necessary.
3. Start the engine and check the voltage again; it should be between 13.7V to 14.7V indicating proper charging.

4. Update BMW Software

Sub-steps:
1. Connect the OBD-II scanner to the vehicle's diagnostic port.
2. Follow the prompts to check for available software updates.
3. If updates are found, ensure the vehicle is connected to a power source and follow the instructions to update the software.

5. Enable Remote Start Feature

Sub-steps:
1. Start the vehicle and access the iDrive system.
2. Navigate to 'Settings' > 'Vehicle' > 'Remote Start'.
3. Ensure that the remote start feature is enabled and save any changes.

6. Reconnect Battery

Reconnect the battery terminals ensuring tight connections.
Test the remote start function again.