BMW back-up entry and start review completed

BMW back-up entry

A thorough review of BMW back-up entry and start processes for 2025 and 2026 finds few changes. The start process is completely unchanged and is uniform across all models.

Back-up open and start processes are a necessary fact of life in the event that the key fob battery goes flat, even in today’s app world. A low smart phone battery will likely result in Bluetooth being tuned off.

However, we determined that the back-up entry process in 7-Series models (right) was first seen in 2022. We also found that 4-Series and 5-Series models now match the back-up opening process first seen in the i4 and i5 electric vehicles (EVs).

Sadly, the company has not chosen to consolidate these processes. Their customers would likely appreciate it if they would.

This, in fact, has been true from the first time BMW hid a keyhole. The entry processes have never fully matched across series. And still, it uses a single back-up start process.

We’ve asked in this forum that all companies consolidate their processes and have even asked that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) mandate this uniformity, as we believe being stranded outside unable to open a vehicle or inside unable to start it are serious safety hazards.

But, who’s listening?

In any case, BMW‘s back-up open and start pages start here.

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The material on these pages is provided for information sharing purposes only and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business, nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember — only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

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