The 2020 BMW 540i, a popular model in the G30 5 Series generation, offers a blend of performance and luxury that continues to appeal to car enthusiasts. However, like any vehicle in its first model year of a generation or facing mid-cycle updates, some owners have encountered unexpected feature omissions and software nuances. If you’re a proud owner or considering purchasing a 2020 540i, understanding these aspects is crucial for maximizing your ownership experience.
One notable point of discussion among early MY2020 BMW owners revolves around the absence of remote start in certain models, particularly when compared to previous years. While models like the 530e were known to utilize “preconditioning” instead of remote start due to their hybrid nature, this difference extended to some non-hybrid models as well. Preconditioning, which relies on the high voltage battery to regulate cabin temperature, has limitations, especially if the vehicle isn’t plugged in or lacks sufficient charge. This distinction was a point of frustration for some transitioning from older models where remote start was a standard or readily available feature.
For 2020 540i owners desiring remote start functionality, the aftermarket presents viable solutions. Numerous options are available, and online forums dedicated to BMW vehicles are rich resources for researching and understanding the experiences of others who have added aftermarket remote start systems. These discussions often cover various brands, installation processes, and user satisfaction levels, providing valuable insights for those considering this upgrade.
Another area of initial concern for owners of “early” 2020 models was related to Remote Software Updates (RSU). There was anticipation that these updates would deliver significant feature enhancements and improvements over time. However, BMW’s rapid advancement to newer iDrive systems (8, 8.5, and 9) shortly after the release of iDrive 7, which the 2020 540i utilizes, meant that the focus of Remote Software Updates shifted towards these newer platforms. Consequently, the updates for iDrive 7 cars, including the 2020 540i, have been perceived by some as less impactful than initially hoped.
Despite the limitations of over-the-air Remote Software Updates, dealership-installed software updates remain a significant avenue for enhancing the functionality of your 2020 BMW 540i. BMW often releases Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) to address specific issues or enable new features across its models. For 2020 540i owners, consulting with your BMW dealership and inquiring about available TSBs is a proactive step. These updates, when applied by dealership technicians, can unlock valuable features such as Android Auto integration, enhanced navigation map functionality, Spotify integration, and other improvements depending on your car’s current software version.
It’s important to note that while these dealership software updates are beneficial, they are typically not automatically applied. Unless you can demonstrate a specific defect or issue that falls under warranty coverage, dealerships may charge for these software updates. This is where Technical Service Bulletins become particularly useful. Identifying a relevant TSB that applies to your vehicle can provide the necessary justification for the dealership to perform the software update at no cost to you, as it addresses a known issue or update covered under BMW’s warranty or service guidelines.
For owners of early MY2020 540i vehicles, there’s another specific point to be aware of: the “hotel switch” in the glovebox. This switch, designed to disable the trunk release function from the key fob and interior button (useful in valet or hotel parking scenarios), was standard on pre-LCI models (MY2020 and older). Due to an oversight, some very early 2020 540i models were produced without this feature. If your 2020 540i lacks this glovebox switch, a TSB exists to rectify this. Presenting this TSB to your dealership will enable them to install the “hotel switch” free of charge, provided your vehicle is still within its warranty period.
In conclusion, while early adopters of the 2020 BMW 540i encountered a few unexpected feature differences and software update realities, understanding these points empowers owners to proactively address them. Exploring aftermarket remote start options, leveraging dealership software updates via TSBs, and addressing the “hotel switch” issue (if applicable) can significantly enhance the ownership experience of a 2020 BMW 540i. By staying informed and engaging with your BMW dealership, you can ensure your 2020 540i continues to deliver the performance, luxury, and technology you expect from this esteemed model.
