Does the BMW M240i Offer Remote Start? Full Feature Guide

Editorial Team Mar 08, 2026

The BMW M240i, a benchmark in sporty luxury sedans, combines powerful performance with cutting-edge technology—among its sought-after features is the remote start functionality. Drivers often wonder if they can warm up their M240i from a distance, enhancing comfort and convenience.

Learn How to Activate Your BMW Remote Start Feature Now! - YouTube
Learn How to Activate Your BMW Remote Start Feature Now! - YouTube Source: www.youtube.com

Yes, the 2021 and newer BMW M240i models come equipped with BMW’s Remote Key Start system. This feature allows drivers to activate the engine and climate settings using the BMW ConnectedDrive app, smartphone, or a dedicated key fob from up to 30 meters away, making it ideal for chilly mornings or after long parking sessions.

How to Determine if Your BMW Has Remote Start: A Comprehensive Guide ...
How to Determine if Your BMW Has Remote Start: A Comprehensive Guide ... Source: yourbmwblog.com

Activating the remote start involves pairing your BMW M240i with the BMW ConnectedDrive ecosystem. Through the official app or key fob, drivers can initiate engine start-up, adjust cabin temperature, and run diagnostics remotely. The system uses secure Bluetooth and encrypted signals to ensure safety and prevent unauthorized access, maintaining both convenience and cybersecurity.

BMW Remote Engine Start | BMW of Minnetonka
BMW Remote Engine Start | BMW of Minnetonka Source: www.bmwofminnetonka.com

The remote start feature delivers tangible benefits: pre-conditioning the cabin for optimal comfort, reducing fuel consumption by minimizing idling time, and enabling hands-free operation in adverse weather. This smart integration aligns with BMW’s focus on combining luxury with intuitive technology, transforming morning routines and enhancing the overall ownership experience.

BMW Remote Start Retrofit: How to Add Remote Start to Your BMW - BMW ...
BMW Remote Start Retrofit: How to Add Remote Start to Your BMW - BMW ... Source: bmw.carlinkitfactory.com

For best results, ensure the vehicle is parked in a secure, well-ventilated space; verify battery levels; and check app connectivity. Avoid using remote start in enclosed garages without ventilation and always use genuine BMW components. Regular software updates from BMW further enhance reliability and performance.

Remote Car Starter Using Factory Key Fob at Gary Delariva blog
Remote Car Starter Using Factory Key Fob at Gary Delariva blog Source: storage.googleapis.com

With the BMW M240i’s robust remote start capability, drivers gain unmatched convenience and control. This feature seamlessly integrates with the vehicle’s premium ecosystem, ensuring luxury meets innovation—making every journey start with precision and comfort.

How To Determine If Your BMW Has Remote Start?
How To Determine If Your BMW Has Remote Start? Source: bmwinsights.com

Not every BMW model comes equipped with remote start, so if you're questioning, "Does my BMW have remote start," check the settings of your iDrive sub-menu or Premium Package to see if "Remote Engine Start" is listed. If you have the iDrive system 7.0 or Live Cockpit installed, you will likely find it there. They can help you determine if your car has remote start and how to activate it if it does.

BMW Remote starter System 5 & 6 Series 2010-2018
BMW Remote starter System 5 & 6 Series 2010-2018 Source: bimmerpro.ca

From exploring the iDrive sub-menu to checking your owner's manual or consulting your local BMW dealer, we've got you covered. Don't miss out on the luxury of starting your BMW remotely, ensuring a comfortable ride every time. Once you have booked the "Remote Engine Start" vehicle function as a BMW ConnectedDrive Upgrade for your BMW with Operating System 7 or newer, you must activate the function once.

In the My BMW App, select: "Vehicle" (tab) > "Remote Services". Alternatively, you can activate "Remote Engine Start" by locking three times with your vehicle key. The quick answer is: most newer BMW models can be purchased with remote start, but it often requires getting a premium package.

Keep reading as we outline exactly which BMW models and packages include remote start, and how to operate the remote engine starter on your key fob. If your vehicle offers BMW Remote Start, you can precondition your cabin and have it ready when you arrive. How does BMW remote start work? Find out how to activate the feature inside.

Remote Start? All times are GMT -5. The time now is 06:33 PM. 2018 M240i, no remote start.

Has anybody here added this feature third party? Bought it earlier this year and loving it. Looking at remote start options to heat the car's interior, specifically the passenger/driver windows. I live in the PNW and a few days out of the year the temps drop enough to glue doors shut with ice.

Can I add Remote Start after the fact? All times are GMT -5. The time now is 09:29 PM. Never leave children or pets in the vehicle when remote started, and make sure the vehicle is in a safe location with proper ventilation and clearance.

Does remote start drain my BMW's battery? If used sparingly and in appropriate conditions, remote start typically doesn't significantly impact your vehicle's battery.