# Mercedes Remote Engine Start Cost: Pricing, Activation & Complete Guide
Thinking about adding **Remote Engine Start** to your Mercedes-Benz or activating it through **Mercedes me connect**? This comprehensive guide covers:
– ✅ What Mercedes Remote Engine Start is
– 💰 Typical costs (service, activation & subscription)
– 🔧 How to activate & use it
– ⚠️ Limitations, compatibility & legal notes
– 🧾 Tips to save money & get the most from the feature
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## 🚗 What Is Mercedes Remote Engine Start?
**Remote Engine Start** allows you to start your Mercedes-Benz engine from a distance using:
– The **Mercedes me** smartphone app
– In some models, the **key fob** (depending on region and model)
The goal is comfort and convenience:
– ❄️ Pre-cool your car in summer
– 🔥 Pre-heat your car in winter
– 🧊 Defrost windows before you even step outside
Remote Engine Start does **not** unlock the vehicle or allow it to be driven without a valid key inside. It’s designed with built-in safety measures so the engine shuts off if:
– Someone opens the door without the key inside
– The brake pedal is pressed
– The engine runs for a set time (e.g., 10–15 minutes)
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## 💰 Mercedes Remote Engine Start Cost Overview
The total cost depends on:
– Your **model year** and equipment
– Whether the hardware is **factory-installed** or needs to be added
– Whether the service is **included**, **trial**, or **subscription-based** through Mercedes me
Below is a **typical pricing range** (actual prices vary by dealer, market, and promotions):
### 1. Factory-Equipped Remote Start (Newer Models)
Many recent Mercedes-Benz models (especially from around 2019+ in some markets) come **hardware-ready** for Remote Engine Start. In this case:
– ✅ Hardware cost: Already built into the car price
– 🔄 Software activation: Sometimes included in a connected services package
– 📱 App access: Managed via **Mercedes me connect** subscription
**Typical costs:**
– Initial trial (1–3 years): Often **included** with purchase or lease
– Extension / renewal: Around **$20–$50 per year** or included in a wider connected services bundle
– Standalone feature activation (if not pre-included): Approximately **$50–$150** one-time or as part of a subscription package
> 📌 Many owners discover Remote Start is available only after logging into Mercedes me and exploring “**Digital Extras**” or “**Services**” sections.
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### 2. Adding Remote Start to Older Models
If your Mercedes did **not** come with Remote Engine Start hardware, the cost is higher and depends heavily on:
– Whether Mercedes offers **official retrofit** options in your market
– If a **third-party remote start system** is installed
**Typical cost ranges:**
– **OEM (official) retrofit** (where available):
– Hardware: **$400–$800**
– Programming & labor: **$150–$350**
– Total: Typically **$550–$1,150**
– **Third-party systems** (aftermarket):
– Hardware: **$150–$500**
– Installation & integration: **$200–$600**
– Total: Typically **$350–$1,100**
> ⚠️ Note: Third-party systems can affect **warranty**, **security**, and **electronics** if not installed by a qualified professional familiar with Mercedes vehicles. Always verify with your dealer before modifying your vehicle.
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### 3. Subscription vs One-Time Activation
Depending on your region and model, Remote Engine Start might be:
– 🧩 Part of a **Mercedes me connect package** (e.g., “Remote Services” or “Convenience Package”)
– 💳 Available as a **standalone digital service** in the Mercedes me store
Common models:
– **Subscription model**
– Monthly: around **$5–$15**
– Yearly: around **$50–$150**
– **One-time activation**
– Single fee: **$50–$200** (rare; usually still tied to a connected services plan)
Exact pricing can be seen by:
1. Logging into the **Mercedes me app** or website
2. Selecting your **vehicle**
3. Checking the **Store**, **Digital Extras**, or **Services** tab
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## 🧩 What Affects the Cost of Mercedes Remote Engine Start?
Several key factors influence what you’ll pay:
### 🔍 1. Model & Year
– Newer models often include the hardware and require only **software activation + subscription**.
– Older cars may need **additional hardware**, making it more costly.
### 🌍 2. Country & Legal Regulations
– In some regions, Remote Start is **restricted or banned** due to idling and emissions laws.
– Pricing, availability, and features vary by country.
### ⚙️ 3. Equipment Level
Cars with advanced packages like:
– **Premium Package**
– **Multimedia / Navigation Package**
– **Keyless-Go / Keyless Start**
…are more likely to already have the infrastructure needed for Remote Start.
### 🏬 4. Dealer Policies & Labor Rates
– Dealer labor rates vary widely.
– Some dealers run **promotions** or **bundle** activation with other software updates or services.
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## 📱 How Mercedes Remote Engine Start Works
### ✅ Basic Operation (Mercedes me App)
Once activated and configured, you can:
1. Open the **Mercedes me** app.
2. Select your vehicle.
3. Tap **Remote Start** (often under *Remote Engine Start*, *Engine*, or *Climate*).
4. Confirm the command.
In many models, you can also set **climate preferences**, such as:
– Temperature
– Defrost mode
– Seat heating (where equipped)
The app will then:
– Send a **secure encrypted signal** to your Mercedes
– Start the engine for a **preset time** (e.g., 10–15 minutes)
– Shut off automatically if you don’t enter the vehicle
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## 🧾 Step-by-Step: Activating Mercedes Remote Engine Start
Below is a typical activation process. Steps may vary slightly by model and market.
### 🪪 Step 1: Create or Log Into Your Mercedes me Account
1. Download the **Mercedes me** app (iOS or Android).
2. Create an account or sign in.
3. Add your vehicle using:
– VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), or
– QR code from your paperwork or on the MBUX screen (in some models).
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### 🚘 Step 2: Link Your Vehicle to Your Account
1. In the vehicle, visit the **Mercedes me** or **Connect** menu on the infotainment screen.
2. Follow prompts to **pair the car** with your account.
3. In some cases, you must confirm ownership at a dealer with:
– ID
– Vehicle registration
– VIN
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### 🛒 Step 3: Check Available Services & Pricing
In the app or website:
1. Go to the **Store**, **Digital Extras**, or **Services** section.
2. Look for:
– “**Remote Engine Start**”
– “**Remote Services**”
– “**Convenience Services**” or similar
3. Confirm:
– ✅ Availability for your specific VIN
– 💰 Pricing (monthly, yearly, or one-time)
– 🧪 Whether a **free trial** is offered
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### 💳 Step 4: Purchase or Activate the Service
1. Select the Remote Start service or relevant package.
2. Choose subscription length (e.g., 1 month, 1 year, 3 years).
3. Complete payment via:
– Credit/debit card
– Other supported methods in your region
You’ll usually receive an on-screen confirmation and an email receipt.
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### 🔁 Step 5: Final Setup in the Vehicle
1. Start your vehicle normally.
2. Check the **Mercedes me** or **Connectivity** menu.
3. Verify that **Remote Engine Start / Remote Services** are shown as **Active**.
4. Test the feature:
– Exit the car, lock the doors
– Use the app to start the engine
– Confirm engine runs and climate system turns on
If it doesn’t work, your dealer may need to:
– Update software
– Activate or code the feature
– Verify telematics/antenna and SIM connection
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## 🧊 Comfort & Convenience: Why Remote Start Is Worth It
### ❄️ 1. Climate Comfort in Any Season
– Pre-cool a hot car in summer to protect interior surfaces and electronics from extreme heat.
– Pre-heat in winter to:
– Melt ice
– Clear fogged or frozen windows
– Warm seats and steering wheel (if equipped)
### 🔐 2. Security & Peace of Mind
– Vehicle remains **locked** during Remote Start.
– Engine cuts off if unauthorized entry or certain actions occur.
– No ability to shift into gear without a **valid key** inside.
### ⏱️ 3. Time-Saving Everyday
– No need to sit in a freezing or scorching car while it adjusts.
– Perfect for:
– Early commutes
– School runs
– Late-night work shifts
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## ⚠️ Important Limitations & Legal Considerations
### 🧭 1. Local Idling Laws
Many regions have **anti-idling regulations**, especially:
– Certain US states
– Canadian provinces
– European cities
Penalties can include fines if you leave your engine running unattended too long. Remote Start usually runs within a limited timeframe, but you’re still responsible for complying with local laws.
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### 🧯 2. Fuel Use & Emissions
Remote Engine Start burns fuel while the car is stationary:
– More frequent or longer use = higher fuel consumption.
– May slightly increase engine wear if misused (e.g., excessively long idling).
To minimize impact:
– Use **short pre-conditioning windows**
– Combine with **auto shut-off settings**
– Avoid repetitive restarts only for minor temperature changes
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### 📶 3. Connectivity Requirements
For Remote Start to work via Mercedes me:
– The vehicle must have a **working embedded SIM** and data connection.
– Coverage depends on:
– Your mobile network’s availability
– Mercedes’ telematics coverage in your region
In underground garages or areas with poor signal, commands may fail or be delayed.
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### 🔑 4. Compatibility & Feature Availability
Not all Mercedes-Benz models support Remote Engine Start, even with Mercedes me. Common reasons:
– Market restrictions
– Powertrain limitations
– Specific model-year electronics
If Remote Start does **not** appear in your Mercedes me store, your vehicle may not support it, or it may require dealer intervention or a different package.
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## 🔍 How to Check If Your Mercedes Supports Remote Engine Start
Use this quick checklist:
### ✅ Step 1: Verify Model & Year
– Look up your vehicle’s **model year** and **trim**.
– Check the **owner’s manual** or online documentation for “Remote Engine Start” or “Remote Start via Mercedes me”.
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### ✅ Step 2: Use VIN-Based Tools
– Log into the **Mercedes me** portal or app.
– Add your car by **VIN**.
– Visit the **Store / Digital Extras** section.
– If Remote Engine Start is listed, your car supports it (or supports it via coding/activation).
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### ✅ Step 3: Ask Your Mercedes Dealer
Ask specifically:
– “Is **Remote Engine Start** available for my **VIN**?”
– “Is there an **official retrofit** or software activation option?”
– “What’s the **total out-the-door cost**, including activation and labor?”
Get any quote **in writing** for clarity.
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## 💡 Cost-Saving Tips for Mercedes Remote Engine Start
Want the feature without overspending? Use these strategies:
### 💳 1. Use Trial Periods First
Many new Mercedes vehicles offer:
– 3–12 months of **free Mercedes me services**
– Remote Start sometimes included
Test it during the trial to decide if the paid subscription is worth it for your driving habits and climate.
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### 🎯 2. Choose the Right Subscription Length
– If you live in an area with extreme winters or summers, consider **yearly or multi-year plans** (often cheaper per month).
– If you only need it seasonally, look for **short-term or monthly plans** you can pause.
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### 🧠 3. Compare OEM vs Aftermarket Carefully
While aftermarket systems may appear cheaper:
– Factor in potential **warranty** concerns
– Evaluate **integration** with existing electronics
– Consider **resale value**—OEM features are generally more desirable
Often, a properly integrated OEM system via Mercedes me is worth a slightly higher price.
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### 🗓️ 4. Look for Service Bundles
Ask your dealer whether they offer:
– Bundles with other services (maintenance, extended warranty, software updates)
– Promotions for new buyers or lease customers
You might be able to add Remote Start at a discount when signing papers or doing scheduled service.
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## 🧪 Is Mercedes Remote Engine Start Worth the Cost?
Whether it’s “worth it” depends on:
### 🚦 Your Climate
– **Cold winters + hot summers**: Very high value
– Mild climate: More of a luxury than a necessity
### 📅 Your Routine
– Regular early-morning starts, kids, or tight schedules: Big convenience gain
– Mostly short, spontaneous trips in mild weather: Less essential
### 🧾 Your Budget
– If you already use other Mercedes me features (Remote Lock/Unlock, Vehicle Status, Vehicle Tracker), Remote Start becomes an **added bonus** in the same subscription.
– If you’d pay **only** for Remote Start and rarely use it, a shorter subscription or skipping it altogether may be more sensible.
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## 🧷 Quick FAQ: Mercedes Remote Engine Start
**Q: Can I start my Mercedes from my phone?**
**A:** Yes, if your vehicle supports **Mercedes me Remote Engine Start** and the service is activated. Use the Mercedes me app to start the engine and pre-condition the climate.
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**Q: How much does Mercedes Remote Start usually cost?**
**A:** When hardware already exists, expect around **$20–$50/year** or **$5–$15/month**, often within a larger connected service package. If hardware/retrofit is needed, total costs can reach **$550–$1,150** or more.
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**Q: Does Remote Start unlock my doors?**
**A:** No. The car remains locked. You’ll still need your **key** to unlock and drive.
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**Q: Can I drive away after Remote Start without the key?**
**A:** No. The vehicle requires a valid key inside to shift into gear and drive. Without the key, it will shut off or block gear engagement.
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**Q: Will Remote Engine Start void my warranty?**
**A:** Using the official Mercedes me Remote Engine Start **will not** void your warranty. However, third-party systems may affect warranty coverage if they cause electrical or security-related issues. Always confirm with your dealer.
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## 🏁 Final Thoughts
**Mercedes Remote Engine Start** adds a powerful layer of comfort and convenience:
– Warm or cool your cabin before you even open the door
– Maintain security with locked doors and built-in safety controls
– Control everything from your **phone** through Mercedes me
While exact pricing varies by model, region, and equipment, you can expect:
– Modest yearly costs when your car already has the hardware
– Higher, one-time hardware and installation costs for older or non-equipped vehicles
For accurate, up-to-date numbers:
1. Log into your **Mercedes me** app or portal
2. Add your vehicle by **VIN**
3. Check the **Store / Digital Services** section for **Remote Engine Start** availability and pricing
4. Confirm details with your **local Mercedes-Benz dealer**
By understanding the **cost**, **activation steps**, and **limitations**, you can decide whether Remote Engine Start is the right upgrade for your Mercedes and your daily driving life.
