Mercedes remote engine start costs between $300 and $800 if you need hardware installed, or $14.99 per month if your car already has it built in

Mercedes offers remote engine start through two main routes: as part of their MBUX Remote Online Services subscription, or as a standalone hardware installation if your car doesn't have it built in. The subscription costs around $14.99 per month or $149.99 per year, but only works if your vehicle already has the necessary hardware installed. If your Mercedes lacks the system entirely, a dealer installation runs $300 to $800 plus labor, depending on whether it's a retrofit or part of a larger package.

The exact price depends on your model year, trim level, and whether remote start came as original equipment or needs to be added. Newer models (2020 and later) often have the hardware already in place, so you're paying only for the subscription. Older vehicles or lower trims may need the full hardware installation.

Key Takeaways

  • Remote engine start through MBUX costs $14.99 monthly or $149.99 yearly if your car already has the hardware installed.
  • Adding remote start hardware to a car that doesn't have it costs $300 to $800 at a Mercedes dealer, plus installation labor.
  • Newer Mercedes models typically include the hardware as standard, so you only pay for the subscription service.
  • The subscription requires an active Mercedes me account and a compatible smartphone to send the remote start command.

How the MBUX Remote Online Services subscription works

If your Mercedes already has the remote start hardware—which is standard on most 2020+ models—you set up it through the Mercedes me app on your phone. You create a Mercedes me account, link your vehicle, and subscribe to Remote Online Services. Once active, you can start your engine from anywhere with a cellular connection, and the car will run for up to 10 minutes before shutting off automatically.

The subscription also bundles other features beyond remote start: remote door lock and unlock, vehicle status checks (fuel level, tire pressure, door status), and the ability to set climate controls before you get in. Some dealers bundle it with other services, so the total cost may vary slightly by location.

What it costs to add remote start hardware to an older Mercedes

If your car was built before remote start became standard, or if you have a lower trim that didn't include it, Mercedes dealers can retrofit the system. The hardware itself—the module that communicates with your engine control unit—typically costs $300 to $500. Labor to install it, run the wiring, and program it into your vehicle's computer usually adds another $200 to $400.

The total retrofit cost varies by dealer and your specific model. A 2015 C-Class retrofit will cost less than retrofitting a larger vehicle like an S-Class, because the wiring and integration complexity differ. Call your local Mercedes dealer with your vehicle identification number (VIN) for an exact quote, since pricing can shift based on current parts availability and labor rates at your location.

Comparing Mercedes remote start to aftermarket options

Third-party remote start systems from companies like Viper, Compustar, or Avital can cost $200 to $600 installed, which is sometimes cheaper than a Mercedes retrofit. However, aftermarket systems do not integrate with the Mercedes me app or your car's native infotainment system. You control them through a separate app or key fob, and they may not communicate with all of your vehicle's systems the way the factory option does.

Aftermarket systems also may void certain warranty coverage or require disabling factory security features. Before choosing an aftermarket option, ask your Mercedes dealer whether it will affect your warranty or cause any conflicts with your vehicle's electronics. The factory Mercedes system is designed to work seamlessly with your car's existing computers, whereas aftermarket installations require additional wiring and programming that can sometimes create compatibility issues down the road.

What you need to use remote engine start

Beyond the subscription fee, you need a compatible smartphone (iPhone or Android), an active Mercedes me account, and cellular service on your phone. Your vehicle must also have a working battery and fuel in the tank—the system will not start an engine that is completely out of gas. Remote start will not work if your car is in a locked garage or if the doors are manually locked from the inside without the key fob.

Some older models require a separate module or software update to enable remote start even if the hardware is present. Your dealer can check whether your specific vehicle needs any updates or additional components before you purchase the subscription.

When Mercedes charges extra for remote start features

Mercedes sometimes bundles remote start into larger subscription packages. The Premium Package or Connected Services Package may include remote start along with navigation updates, emergency calling, and other features, costing more than the standalone Remote Online Services subscription. If you only want remote start and not the extras, you can usually purchase it separately.

Some dealers also offer promotional pricing or bundle discounts if you purchase remote start with other services at the same time. It's worth asking whether any current offers explore to your purchase, since pricing and package options can vary by dealer and by season.

How to check if your Mercedes already has remote start hardware

The easiest way is to open the Mercedes me app and look for the Remote Online Services option. If it appears and is available to purchase, your car has the hardware. You can also check your vehicle's window sticker or original paperwork—it will list "Remote Engine Start" or "Remote Online Services" if it came standard. If you're unsure, call your Mercedes dealer with your VIN and they can tell you in seconds whether your specific car includes the hardware.

Another quick check is to look at your vehicle's infotainment screen. Navigate to Settings or Connected Services, and if remote start appears as an option, the hardware is already there. This saves you a phone call and lets you know when ready whether you need only the subscription or whether a full retrofit is necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use remote start if my car is parked in a garage?

Remote start will not work if your car is in a closed garage with the door shut, because the engine needs to exhaust safely. If the garage door is open or the car is parked outside, remote start works normally. Never use remote start in an enclosed space.

Does remote start work if my Mercedes is out of fuel?

No. The system will not start an engine with no fuel in the tank. Your Mercedes me app shows your fuel level, so you can check before attempting a remote start command.

What happens if I cancel my Remote Online Services subscription?

Once your subscription ends, you lose access to remote start and all other Remote Online Services features through the app. The hardware remains in your car but becomes inactive. You can resubscribe at any time by opening the Mercedes me app and purchasing the service again.

Is remote start the same as remote climate control?

No. Remote climate control lets you adjust temperature and fan settings through the app before you get in the car. Remote engine start actually starts the engine. Some subscriptions include both, while others include only one. Check your subscription details in the Mercedes me app to see which features you have.

Can I use remote start with a manual transmission?

Mercedes remote start is designed for automatic transmissions only. Manual transmission vehicles cannot use this feature because the system cannot verify that the car is in neutral, which is a safety requirement.