Models of Mercedes-Benz from 2015 to 2020 have the best rates of remote start acceptance. With more than half of new car owners choosing the function. Starting your Mercedes- Benz remotely is simple and useful. In particular during cold weather. This warms your automobile before you get in.
A remote starter is something that helps you start your car from a distance. It’s possible doing with using a key fob or smart key. This function signals to your vehicle, allowing you to
- Start the engine,
- Turn on the fog lamps, and
- Adjust the climate control systems.
Mercedes-Benz vehicles have smart keys that can start the engine remotely. When the engine starts, the power tailgate or liftgate opens automatically. Depending on your model, you can even open the cargo area to load your items before entering the car.
Key Takeaways:
- Remote Start Options: Use the key fob or Mercedes me Connect app (on compatible models).
- Easy Activation: Press lock twice, then hold the remote start button.
- Convenience: Start your car via smartphone for remote access.
- Automatic Features: Engine, climate control, and lights turn on.
- Comfort & Security: Pre-warms/cools the cabin while keeping the car locked.
Mercedes Me Connect App
Mercedes-Benz owners find life less complicated with the Mercedes me Connect app. From their phone, it helps them operate their car anywhere. From your smartphone, you can thus unlock your automobile, examine its condition, and even run the engine. Anyone can access the app on iOS and Android. To proceed, they need an active Mercedes me account and a suitable car. Using this tool, you can:
- Start your car remotely (available on select models) to pre-warm or cool the cabin.
- Lock/unlock doors without using the key fob.
- Locate your vehicle with GPS tracking.
- Check vehicle status (fuel level, tire pressure, battery health, etc.).
- Schedule service appointments and receive maintenance alerts.
How To Remote Start Your Mercedes-Benz Using The Key Fob
Remote start can be done easily using your key fob. It’s compatible with Mercedes-Benz owners, and the models usually range from 2015 onward. You will need a key fob equipped with remote start functionality. Here’s how:
1.Prep Your Car For Remote Start
Before initiating remote start, ensure:
- Your vehicle is in Park (P) mode.
- All doors, the hood, and trunk are closed.
- The key fob has a working battery.
If any of these conditions aren’t met, remote start won’t engage.
2.Lock Your Car First
Press the lock button on your key fob twice in quick succession. Listen for a beep and watch for the parking lights to flash, this confirms the car is locked and ready.
3.Start The Engine Remotely
After locking, press and hold the remote start button for 2-3 seconds. It has a circular arrow. If it works, the parking lights will flash, and the engine will start in five seconds. Your Mercedes-Benz will now run for 10 minutes before automatically shutting off unless you intervene.
4.Enter The Vehicle Without Stalling It
To take over control:
- For push-start models (KeylessGo):
Get inside and press the start button once (without stepping on the brake).
- For traditional key ignition models:
Insert the key and turn it to the RUN position. This keeps the engine running without interrupting your remote start session.
5.Turn Off Remote Start (If Needed)
Changed your mind? No problem. Simply press the Panic button once, and the engine will shut off immediately.
Important Note: This feature might not be available on all Mercedes-Benz models. Check your owner’s manual or consult your dealership to confirm if your vehicle supports remote start.
Remote Start Is A Must-Have For Your Mercedes
Keyless entry and remote start systems make life easier. They let you lock and unlock your car and start the engine without needing a key. These systems often include:
- Power door locks
- Delayed accessory power
- Enhanced cargo access
- Smart key proximity unlocking
- Climate control activation before entry
Extreme weather are instances where the remote start function is quite useful. It warmens the engine and fuel tank in chilly conditions. Running a car keeps your small children safe with the rear child safety latches.
Hot summer days cause the passenger’s and the driver’s air conditioner to turn on automatically. It cools the car such that everyone considers it comfortable before they get inside. This guarantees before you even get inside a cool, comfortable ride.
Furthermore beneficial for roadside assistance is remote starting. Should need, you can remotely unlock your car, turn on the power liftgate, or open the car door. Accessing the cargo area lights and fast loading your goods will help you if you’re running late. Check passenger’s second headroom and shoulder room. Change them if necessary before starting to drive.
Common Issues And Challenges With Remote Starting A Mercedes-Benz
Many Mercedes-Benz owners have shared different experiences when trying to use this feature. While remote start is a fantastic feature, 65% of new car owners report issues, particularly in winter months. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
1.Key Fob Not Responding
Problem: Some Mercedes-Benz owners have reported that their key fob does not activate the remote start function. The vehicle doesn’t respond, or the key fob only locks/unlocks the doors but doesn’t start the engine.
Solution:
- Check the Battery: A common culprit is a weak or dead key fob battery. Ensure the battery in your key fob is fresh. If it’s low, replace it and try again.
- Verify Compatibility: Ensure your model has the remote start function. Older models or some trims may lack this feature.
- Proximity to Vehicle: Ensure that you are within range. The signal from the key fob may not reach the vehicle if you’re too far away.
2.Vehicle Doesn’t Start After Multiple Attempts
Problem: Some users report that even after pressing the correct buttons in the right sequence, the car doesn’t start.
Solution:
- Ensure Proper Mode: Check that the vehicle is in Park mode and has no open doors or trunks. The system requires the car to be completely secured before it will start remotely.
- Confirm with Dealership: If the system doesn’t work after a few attempts, consult your Mercedes-Benz dealership. There may be an issue with your vehicle’s electronics or the remote start system itself.
3.Engine Shuts Off Too Quickly
Problem: The engine starts but shuts off after just a few minutes, even when no one is in the car.
Solution:
- Check for Faulty Sensors: Some vehicles may shut off remotely due to faulty sensors in the car (e.g., if the door or hood is not properly closed).
- Modify Settings: In some cases, the car’s settings can be adjusted by a dealership to extend the remote start duration. Ask your dealership if this is a possibility for your model.
4.Cold Weather Issues
Problem: In extremely cold weather, the remote start might not work or the vehicle may fail to start due to battery issues.
Solution:
- Ensure Battery Health: Cold temperatures can affect battery performance. A weak battery may not support remote start.
- Use the Mercedes Me App: If you have the Mercedes Me app, you can start your car remotely using the app. This may work better than the key fob in some situations.
Troubleshooting Remote Start Issues
If your car refuses to start remotely, your key fob might be trying to tell you something. Count the parking light flashes to diagnose the issue:
- 3 flashes – Normal shutdown
- 5 flashes – Too many remote starts (reset required)
- 6 flashes – Brake pedal was pressed
- 7 flashes – Hood is open
- 8 flashes – Engine RPM too high
- 9 flashes – Engine failed to start
- 10 flashes – Communication error
If remote start stops working, try this quick reset:
- Turn off the ignition.
- Lock the car with the key fob.
- Wait 5 minutes.
- Unlock the car.
- Start it manually with the key or push-start button.
- Let it run for a minute before turning it off.
How To Tell If Your Mercedes Has Remote Start
Remote start is a game-changer, letting you warm up or cool down your car before stepping inside. But not all Mercedes-Benz models come with this feature. Wondering if yours does? Here are some simple ways to find out:
Ways To Check For Remote Start In Your Mercedes-Benz
1.Look For The Circular Arrow Button On Your Key Fob
If your key fob has a circular arrow symbol, your car likely supports remote start. Try pressing lock twice, then holding the remote start button for a few seconds.
2.Check Your Mercedes-Benz Infotainment System
Go to Settings > Convenience Features > Remote Start (or similar, depending on your model). If remote start is listed, your vehicle is equipped with the feature.
3.Use the Mercedes me Connect App
If your car is 2016 or newer, log into Mercedes me and check for remote start controls. If the option appears, you can activate remote start via your smartphone.
4.Check Your Owner’s Manual
Your Mercedes-Benz manual will confirm whether remote start is included in your specific model and trim.
5.Look for Remote Start in the Vehicle Settings
Some models allow you to enable or disable remote start through the digital instrument cluster settings.
6.Contact Your Dealership
If you’re still unsure, a quick VIN check at your Mercedes-Benz dealer can confirm whether your car has remote start and if it requires activation.
What If My Mercedes Doesn’t Have Remote Start?
If your model lacks factory remote start, you may be able to add an aftermarket system. Check with a Mercedes specialist to explore your options!
Key Fob Replacement And Cost Considerations
In a 2022 study, 21% of Mercedes-Benz owners said they had trouble using the remote start feature. Most problems were caused by key fob issues or the feature not working with some models. Some common troubleshooting steps include:
- Ensure your key fob or smart key has a fully charged battery. A dead battery will prevent the signal from reaching your car.
- If the car door doesn’t open after a remote start, check for a possible issue with the tailgate/rear door lock or the car’s lock system.
- Ensure the vehicle is in Park mode when attempting to start remotely.
- If your key fob is not responding, check to see if the key fob programming has been reset. Sometimes, a visit to a Mercedes-Benz dealership may be necessary for key fob programming.
You will need a replacement if your key fob is lost, damaged, or has a dead battery. Replacement costs can vary depending on your Mercedes-Benz model. A new transponder key or keyless entry remote usually costs between $100 and $500. The price depends on programming, the type of key, and labor.
You might wonder: How long does it take? Typically, to get a car key copy made takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the key. For more advanced smart keys, the process may take longer.
Conclusion
Remote starting your Mercedes-Benz with a key fob is a convenient feature that makes life easier, but it’s not without its challenges. From key fob issues to cold weather concerns, it’s important to troubleshoot the problem and, if necessary, seek help from your dealership. With the right approach, you can enjoy the convenience of a warmed-up, ready-to-go Mercedes every time.
FAQs
1.What Is The Symbol For Remote Start?
The symbol for remote start on a Mercedes-Benz key fob is typically a circular arrow. This icon represents the ability to start your engine remotely. If your key fob doesn’t have this symbol, your vehicle may not have remote start, but you can check through the Mercedes me Connect app or your owner’s manual.
2.How Do You Start Your Car When Your Key Fob Battery Dies?
If your key fob battery dies, you can start the car by inserting the key into the ignition or using the backup physical key. Refer to your Mercedes-Benz manual for specific instructions.
3.How To Activate Remote Start On A Mercedes Using The Key?
Simply press and hold the lock button on your key fob, followed by pressing the remote start button for 5 seconds.
4.What Kind Of Key Fob Do You Need For Your Vehicle?
Mercedes-Benz vehicles typically use smart keys or transponder keys for remote start functionality.
5.Do You Need A Replacement Key Without The Original?
If you’ve lost the original car key, you can still replace it. Mercedes-Benz dealerships can replace keys and program key fobs, even if you don’t have the original key.
They’ll need proof of ownership, and the new key will be programmed to your vehicle’s transponder system. Whether you need a flip key, a keyless entry remote, or a new smart key, your dealership can assist in getting you back on the road quickly.
6.How Long Does It Take To Get A Car Key Copy Made?
If you’re having a key fob or transponder key made, it usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour to make a copy. Smart keys or keyless entry systems can take longer to set up. This is especially true if they need to work with your car’s security systems, like ghost immobilizers.
7.Can You Replace Your Car Key Without The Original?
Yes, it’s possible to replace a car key without the original. Your Mercedes-Benz dealer can provide a replacement key by verifying ownership and programming the new key.