How do I set up Remote Start or Climate Control in my Mercedes-Benz?

This step-by-step guide explains how to activate and use Remote Engine Start and Pre-Entry Climate Control with the Mercedes-Benz app and your vehicle’s MBUX settings. Features and availability vary by model and year. If you would like help pairing your phone or verifying eligibility, our team at Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel is ready to assist at (949) 347-3700.

What these features do

Remote Engine Start: Start the vehicle remotely from the Mercedes-Benz app to bring the cabin toward your last climate setting before you get in. Availability varies by model and subscription.
Pre-Entry Climate Control (EV and many PHEV models): Heat or cool the cabin before driving, often while plugged in, using the app, the key, or a scheduled departure time in MBUX.

The Mercedes-Benz app supports connected features such as Remote Engine Start, Lock/Unlock, and Vehicle Locator on compatible vehicles. Many vehicles from model year 2019 and newer are eligible. Some earlier models may also qualify. Features can require activation in the app and an active plan. Sources: Mercedes-Benz app overview and model compatibility notes.

Quick eligibility check

Open the Mercedes-Benz app, add your VIN, and check “Manage Services” or “Digital Extras” for Remote Engine Start or climate features.
Alternatively, search your specific Owner’s Manual for “Pre-entry climate control,” “Remote start,” or “Departure time.” Owner’s Manuals.
For EVs like EQB, EQE, and EQS, look for Pre-Entry Climate Control options in MBUX or the app. EQB Owners Manual, EQE Owners Manual.

Set up in the Mercedes-Benz app

Download or open the Mercedes-Benz app on your phone and sign in.
Pair your vehicle by scanning the QR code in your vehicle’s multimedia system or by entering the VIN. Then confirm the pairing in-vehicle. App Overview.
Navigate to Garage > Manage Services or Digital Extras and enable Remote Engine Start and related remote functions, if available. Compatibility.
From the home screen, use Remote Start to start the vehicle and begin cabin conditioning. For EVs, look for Pre-Entry Climate or Departure Time scheduling.

Note: On many models, Remote Engine Start and select connected features are included for an initial term and can be extended in the Mercedes-Benz Store within the app.

Set up in the vehicle (MBUX)

With the vehicle on, open Settings > Climate or Comfort to find Pre-Entry Climate Control for EVs and many PHEVs.
Select Set Departure Time to schedule daily pre-conditioning so your cabin is ready at a specific time. Indicators in MBUX confirm heating or cooling status..
Some vehicles allow activation upon unlocking or via the key. Check your Owner’s Manual for model-specific steps..

Tips for Electric and Plug-In Hybrid models

Pre-condition while plugged in to preserve driving range.
Use scheduled Departure Times on weekdays for consistent comfort and defogging.
Combine with heated seats or steering wheel presets if supported by your model.

Troubleshooting

Ensure the vehicle is locked, has adequate fuel or battery charge, and is in a safe state for remote start.
Confirm your Mercedes-Benz app login, vehicle pairing, and that Remote Engine Start or Pre-Entry Climate Control is enabled under services or digital extras.
Check for required renewals in the Mercedes-Benz Store within the app if a feature previously available is missing.
Verify your model supports the feature in the Owner’s Manual or contact our team for a quick eligibility check.

Get hands-on help in South Orange County

Visit us at Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel, 1 Star Dr. Laguna Niguel, CA 92677. We proudly support drivers from Laguna Niguel, Dana Point, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Ladera Ranch, Aliso Viejo, and Lake Elsinore.

Want to experience these features on a new model or an electric Mercedes-Benz? Browse our new vehicles, browse our pre-owned vehicles, or browse our certified pre-owned Mercedes-Benz inventory. You can also view our special offers or call our Sales Team at (949) 347-3700.

If you need setup assistance during a service visit, please schedule service, view our service specials, or call our Service Team at (949) 347-3860. Enjoy our guest lounge with workstations, complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, and EV charging stations while we help configure your features.

FAQs

Which Mercedes-Benz models support Remote Engine Start?

Many 2019 and newer Mercedes-Benz models support Remote Engine Start when equipped for connected services and activated in the app. Availability varies by model and package; check your VIN in the app for confirmation.

Do electric Mercedes-Benz models start the motor for climate control?

EVs use Pre-Entry Climate Control to warm or cool the cabin without starting a combustion engine. You can schedule departure times or activate the feature via the app or MBUX.

Can I schedule the cabin to be ready at a set time?

Yes. Set a daily departure time in MBUX for supported models so the cabin reaches your preferred temperature before you leave. Some models can also trigger pre-conditioning upon unlocking.

My app shows Remote Engine Start grayed out. What should I do?

Confirm vehicle pairing, ensure your services are activated in the app, and verify that your plan is current in the Mercedes-Benz Store. If the feature is not listed, your vehicle may not support it.

Will my climate settings from the last drive be used?

On many models, Remote Engine Start resumes the most recent climate settings. EVs and PHEVs offer dedicated Pre-Entry Climate Control options for targeted heating or cooling. Check your Owner’s Manual for model-specific behavior. Owner’s Manuals.