A question of style.
The comfort access system puts an end to searching for car keys in your handbag or pockets. Simply approach your BMW, open the door and press the Start button. Your unique key is recognized remotely by the comfort access sensors.
As soon as you come within 1.5 metres of your BMW, the comfort access system remotely senses your BMW key, wherever you happen to be carrying it - in your jacket pocket, handbag or briefcase. Simply touch the door handle and the door unlocks.
The system also senses when you've entered the cabin and enables the Start/Stop button, so all you need to do it press it and drive off. And when you reach your destination, your BMW locks all doors automatically simply with a press on the exterior door handle. Locking your keys in the car by accident becomes impossible, because the comfort access system will not lock the doors as long as your key remains in the cabin.
Your vehicle key also functions as a remote control for opening and closing the tailgate. If you wish, you can store your individual driver settings by using the key's memory function. Up to eleven individual preferences for seat adjustments, exterior mirrors, steering wheel position, Head-Up Display and the audio system can, depending on the model of your BMW, be saved on the key and activated each time you enter your vehicle.
Keeping your gaze on the road
The Head-up Display helps drivers maintain concentration on the road ahead by displaying driving-related information in an effective way. This information is projected onto the windscreen within the driver’s direct field of vision, meaning he does not have to divert his gaze away from the road. Consequently, any distraction from the traffic situation is reduced to a minimum. Depending on the model and specifications, the following information can be selected to be displayed on the Head-up Display.
- Vehicle Speed
- Navigation information (arrow and distance to next turn)
- Information on Active Cruise Control function
- Proximity warning system
- Lane Departure Warning System
- BMW Night Vision alerts
Head-Up Display is available as an option on the BMW 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, 2011 X3, X5, X6, X5M, and X6M.
Safe and convenient communication
Connecting a mobile phone to your vehicle via Bluetooth is the safest and most comfortable way to speak on the phone while on the road. This is why BMW was the first automobile manufacturer to introduce the Bluetooth communication standard for mobile phone integration as early as 2002. The wireless connection enables drivers to operate their mobile phones via the multifunctional steering wheel, the iDrive Controller or voice control. The mobile phone's telephone book, recent calls and other data is synchronized with the on-board computer and can be accessed via the radio display or the on-board monitor.
Bluetooth is available on all new BMWs, and is standard on most.
BMWs produced after September 2010 also have the capability to display images for phonebook entries (if previously entered on the phone), and also access emails and text messages stored on compatible Blackberry Devices. These advanced functions are only compatible with certain smartphones.
Also on vehicles produced after September 2010, owners can use Bluetooth to wirelessly connect compatible devices for music playback. The Apple iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4, along with the 3rd and 4th generation iPod touch, as well as several other smartphones may be compatible with this feature.
Safety & Convenience
The BMW Assist Telematics service provides the driver with the ultimate in safety and convenience. Using advanced technology, it brings the focused attention of a highly trained representative to the BMW driver’s aid when it is needed most.
Combining an embedded wireless device for communication and a Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite receiver to determine the vehicle’s location, the BMW Assist system conveniently delivers both superior occupant security and premium quality services to enhance the BMW driving experience. The BMW Assist system includes Bluetooth® hands-free calling capability with speech recognition.
Emergency Request
After pressing the “SOS” button, vehicle location and other important data are transmitted to the BMW Assist Response Centre. A response specialist will speak with you to coordinate dispatch, notify your emergency contacts, and link you to BMW Roadside Assistance* as needed/requested. Emergency directions may also be provided.
Destination Download
Speak to a BMW Assist specialist and have a destination and phone number sent to your on-board navigation system and Bluetooth®-linked phone when you push the "Concierge" button with your iDrive Controller. Similarly, have the same information pushed to your in-car radio display (for non-iDrive equipped vehicles).
** MyInfo, and Destination Download are available on BMW Assist-equipped vehicles as of March 2008 production (exception X5, X6 which are as of April 2008 production). MyInfo requires the customer to have an email address as part of their BMW Assist account. Both MyInfo and Destination Download are dependent on the proper working functionality of a web-based provider.
Myinfo**`
Use Google Maps to send point of interest information to your BMW using your e-mail address and your BMW Assist account. Accept the information into your navigation system (if applicable) or have the information displayed in your radio or iDrive display for your convenience while en route to the destination. Call your destination using Bluetooth integration by selecting the displayed telephone number. (BMW Assist account holder e-mail address must be on subscriber agreement to allow MyInfo function to send to your specific vehicle.)
** MyInfo, and Destination Download are available on BMW Assist-equipped vehicles as of March 2008 production (exception X5, X6 which are as of April 2008 production). MyInfo requires the customer to have an email address as part of their BMW Assist account. Both MyInfo and Destination Download are dependent on the proper working functionality of a web-based provider.
Remote Door Unlock
This helpful feature will allow you to gain access to your BMW if you are ever locked out of your vehicle. Simply call BMW Assist toll free, provide your name and customer-specific password, and a response specialist will send a signal to your vehicle to remotely unlock the driver’s door.
Stolen Vehicle Recovery
If your BMW is ever stolen, after filing a police report, call the BMW Assist Reponse Centre to remotely activate your BMW Assist system to locate your vehicle and help the police recover it. This service may even reduce your insurance premium.
Enhanced Roadside Assistance
In the event of a flat tire, empty gas tank or other vehicle problem, the BMW Assist Response Centre is ready to link you to BMW Roadside Assistance* at just the push of a button. Once linked, BMW Roadside Assistance* will have access to the same information as the BMW Assist Response Centre. The representative will be able to quickly coordinate dispatch of appropriate assistance to your exact location.
Customer Relations Function
For questions, general comments and concerns, you can speak to a BMW Customer Relations specialist at just the touch of a button. Simply press the SOS button or if applicable select the “Customer Relations” tab in the BMW Assist section of the iDrive menu. Simply request BMW Canada service assistance within our normal business hours* and the BMW Assist call centre will connect you to a BMW Customer Relations Specialist.
Advanced Automatic Collision Notification
In the event of a serious impact, accident or a rollover, the location and vehicle information are sent automatically to the BMW Assist Response Centre. A BMW Assist response specialist will then attempt to establish voice contact with the driver or vehicle occupant.
In the event that the driver or vehicle occupants do not respond, the Response Centre will direct the appropriate emergency services to the vehicle's location. If a voice contact is established, the response specialist will continue to speak with the driver or occupants to provide a reassuring presence while a second response specialist will coordinate the emergency dispatch.
* BMW Group Canada Customer Integration Centre regular business hours are Monday to Thursday 8:30am-8:00pm (EST) and Fridays 9am to 6pm (EST).
Hands free Calling using Bluetooth
On all models equipped with BMW Assist, you can select a BMW recommended Bluetooth® cellular phone from your wireless carrier to call hands-free without any cords or cables getting in your way. Your sales representative can recommend Bluetooth handsets and available snap-in adapters, which both recharge your phone and connect it to your BMW's external antenna for improved reception. This solution offers speech recognition, steering wheel controls and phone number display, letting you keep your hands on the wheel. A hidden microphone transmits your conversation, while you listen through your sound system, with entertainment muted during calls.
This capability is a feature of the BMW Assist system and does not require a subscription to BMW Assist Services.
Details
Vehicle Requirements
BMW Assist is currently standard on the BMW 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X5, X6, and all M models. It is available as optional equipment or as part of the Premium Package upgrade on all other current BMW models.
Pricing
The first year of BMW Assist services is paid by BMW. The current price for a 1-year renewal subscription is $199.00 (plus applicable taxes).
How to Subscribe
To subscribe to BMW Assist Safety & Convenience, a BMW Assist Subscriber Agreement must be completed. To obtain a copy of the agreement, either:
- Contact your local BMW Retailer
- Call the BMW Assist toll free number at (800) 493-4070
Frequently Asked Questions
Does BMW Assist track the vehicle's location?
No, the BMW Assist system only transmits the vehicle’s location when the owner requests BMW Roadside Assistance, or when the vehicle automatically initiates an Automatic Collision Notification after an airbag deploys. The BMW Response Centre cannot determine the vehicle’s location without the vehicle or occupant initiating this request for service. Vehicle speed or previous locations are not transmitted. In this way, BMW protects all customer information and only uses it to fulfill the service request.
Will BMW Assist work when the vehicle is in a tunnel or in an isolated area?
BMW Assist uses advanced digital and analog cellular service throughout Canada and the USA and will therefore work effectively in most areas unless the vehicle is in a location where cellular service is unavailable.
How can I change my subscriber information?
To change your subscriber information, please call the BMW Assist toll free number at (800) 493-4070.
What is the advantage of BMW Assist compared to a cellular phone?
Unlike a cell phone with a small battery, BMW Assist is powered by the vehicle’s robust 12-volt system. BMW Assist is therefore ready as long as the vehicle’s battery is functional. With a full three watts of available transmission power, the BMW Assist system has up to 5 times more strength than a conventional cell phone’s 0.6 watts maximum. Further, the rooftop antenna offers improved reception and transmission capability and broad wireless coverage is assured since BMW Assist has contracted with a major domestic wireless carrier and selected partners to offer comprehensive cellular coverage of Canada and the USA.
Does BMW pay for the first year of service?
Yes, BMW pays for the first 12 months of BMW Assist Safety & Security Package from the vehicle’s original in-service date. A BMW Assist Subscriber Agreement must be completed.
To view the BMW Assist brochure, please click here.
Simplifying Parallel Parking
The BMW Park Assistant makes it easier to manoeuvre safely and comfortably into parking spaces parallel to the road. The system begins by searching for suitable parking spaces and ends by completing all the necessary steering movements to guide the car into the chosen space. To start, sensors integrated into the side of the vehicle identify a possible space. When the car is travelling at speeds of up to 35 km/h the sensors constantly measure the length and width of potential parking spots along the edge of the road, and the system selects spaces which are at least 1.20 metres longer than the vehicle. Once a suitable parking spot is detected, the system notifies the driver via the iDrive screen, and the driver needs to manually brake and put the car into reverse. From there, the system automatically steers the car into the parking spot. For safety, the driver does need to operate the accelerator and brake pedals. Audible and visual alerts from Park Distance Control (PDC), the rear view camera or Surround View system help to maintain a distance to other vehicles or obstacles.
The feature is available to order on the all-new BMW 5 Series Sedan.