How to Set Up Remote Start & Climate Control in Your Mercedes-Benz

Quick Overview

Remote Engine Start (select gasoline models): Start the engine and pre-condition the cabin from your phone using the Mercedes-Benz app.
Pre-Entry Climate Control (hybrid & electric models): Heat or cool the cabin using grid/battery power without starting an engine; schedule departure times for automatic conditioning.
Eligibility: Most model year 2019 and newer Mercedes-Benz vehicles support Mercedes me connect services; select 2018 models may qualify. Availability varies by model, equipment, market, and active subscriptions in the Mercedes-Benz Store.

Step 1 — Check Vehicle Compatibility

Locate your VIN (driver’s door jamb, windshield lower-left, or registration).
Confirm you have an active Mercedes me connect account and that services are enabled for your VIN.
If you’re unsure, call our Service Team at (949) 328-8888 and we’ll verify your vehicle’s capabilities.

Step 2 — Install & Sign In to the Mercedes-Benz App

Download the Mercedes-Benz app (formerly “Mercedes me connect”) on iOS or Android.
Create or sign in to your Mercedes me account using your email.
Add your vehicle by VIN and complete the in-vehicle verification when prompted.
In the app, open the Mercedes-Benz Store to activate/renew Remote Engine Start or Pre-Entry Climate services if required.

Remote Engine Start — Gasoline Models

For many gasoline models equipped with Mercedes me connect and Remote Engine Start.

Open the app > select your vehicle.
Tap Remote Engine Start, then set a target temperature if available.
Press and hold Start to confirm. The vehicle doors remain locked; engine will stop after the preset duration or when you begin driving.
To stop early, tap Stop in the app.

Tip: Enable notifications so you get confirmation that remote start began/ended successfully.

Pre-Entry Climate Control — Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) Models

Pre-conditions the cabin without running the engine.

In the app, open Climate (or Pre-Entry Climate).
Set your desired temperature and tap Start.
Optional: In-vehicle, you can use the climate menu to trigger pre-entry climate or configure comfort settings with your SmartKey on some models.

Pre-Entry Climate Control & Departure Scheduling — Mercedes-Benz Electric (EQ) Models

Ideal for daily routines—your EQ warms or cools itself before you leave.

In the app or the MBUX center display, open Climate or Departure Time.
Set one-time or weekly Departure Times and your preferred cabin temperature.
If possible, leave the vehicle plugged in so conditioning draws from the grid.
You’ll see an indicator on the climate bar when a departure time is active (varies by model).

Troubleshooting & Common Questions

Remote start button missing? Check that your services are active in the Mercedes-Benz Store within the app and that your vehicle supports Remote Engine Start.
App says “vehicle unavailable”? Ensure the vehicle has cellular coverage and the doors/hood are closed. Try refreshing the app.
No climate response on EV? Verify a departure time is saved and that Pre-Entry Climate is toggled on. For best results, keep the vehicle plugged in.
Feature availability changed? Some features require an active subscription and can vary by model year and market. Renew or add services from the app’s store.

We Can Set It Up For You

Prefer a walk-through? Visit us at 81 Auto Center Dr., Foothill Ranch, CA 92610. We’ll pair your phone, verify services, and demonstrate climate features.

Schedule Service • Call our Service Team at (949) 328-8888

Shopping for a Mercedes-Benz with Remote Climate Features?

Explore the latest models with Mercedes me connect and advanced climate tech.

Proudly Serving Orange County

We support drivers throughout Irvine, Foothill Ranch, Lake Forest, Trabuco Canyon, Coto de Caza, and nearby communities including Orchard Hills, Irvine Spectrum, Portola Springs, Woodbury, Baker Ranch, Hidden Lakes, Portola Hills, Rancho de los Alisos, Serrano Park, Modjeska Canyon, Santiago Canyon, Brighton Glen & Summit, Citation Homes, Country Series, Downtown Trabuco Canyon, Fieldstone, Homestead, and Dove Canyon.

Search