How Will the End of 3G Impact Your Mercedes-Benz?

With 2022 coming to an end, it also means the end of mbrace® service for Mercedes-Benz models created prior to 2017. This means all 2016 and older models, as well as some select 2017 model years will also be impacted. 

But you might be wondering, “Why are services being discontinued?”  This is because major U.S. cellular networks have been planning to decommission their 3G services for some time, and 2022 was determined by Mercedes-Benz to be the end of thembrace® service. The switch will let these mobile networks provide better 4G and 5G services. Find out when 3G services may be discontinued in your vehicle and explore potential solutions with Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel.

Vehicle Service & Care Tips

Which Mercedes-Benz Vehicles Are Impacted?

3G wireless became available commercially in 2001, and most Mercedes-Benz vehicles have offered some form of 3G connectivity ever since. The full list of impacted vehicles is as follows:

  • All 3G-enabled models made from MY2020 to MY2016
  • 2017 C-Class Coupe
  • 2017 GLS
  • 2017 AMG® GT
  • 2017 S-Class cabriolet
  • 2017 S 65 AMG® Sedan

These vehicles all use a communication module known as the Emergency Call Support System, which can be identified by option code 348. Other 2017 models were built with the HERMES LTE module (option code 362). If you’re not sure which setup is featured in your vehicle, you can contact our team, and they’ll help you review the process.

Which Services Are Impacted?

Each of the following services will go dark on the date listed above:

  • Any and all services tied tombrace®, such as eCall and in-vehicle roadside assistance
  • WiFi™ hotspot
  • Remote services are available via your MB App

The home, assist, finance and inspire features of your Mercedes me app will not be impacted. Bluetooth®, Navigation, Sirius XM Radio, and associated SXM traffic and weather services will likewise continue to function without change.

When Will Your 3G Services Be Phased Out?

August 1, 2022

  • All models from MY2020 – MY2012
  • 2013 S-Class
  • 2014 AMG® SLS
  • 2013 CL-Class

December 1, 2022

  • 2013–16 C-Class
  • 2013–16 E-Class
  • 2013–16 CLS
  • 2013–16 M-Class / GLE
  • 2013–16 SL
  • 2013–16 GL
  • 2013–16 SLK / SLC
  • 2013–16 G-Class
  • 2013–15 GLK
  • 2014–16 B-Class
  • 2014–16 CLA
  • 2014–16 S-Class
  • 2015–16 AMG® GT
  • 2016 GLC
  • 2016 GLE Coupe
  • All impacted 2017 models

Can You Upgrade an Impacted Vehicle with 4G or 5G?

Mercedes-Benz will not offer the option to retrofit your vehicle with a 4G LTE interface, but you aren’t completely out of options. If you don’t want to give up the convenience offered bymbrace®, and you’re not yet ready to upgrade to a newer vehicle, you may wish to consider one or more third-party solutions, such as Hum, by Verizon, which is one alternative. This product is serviced solely by Verizon and is subject to their terms and conditions, but it’s still a good option for the Orange County or Aliso Viejo driver who wants to maintain the features that they’ve gotten used to.

We’re Here to Help!

Despite how much the world changes, Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel will continue to offer the same high-quality service that drivers have come to expect from our name! If you have questions about your vehicle’s features or something seems as though it isn’t operating as intended, you can always schedule service and let us take a look! We’ll get you back on the roads of Laguna Niguel or San Juan Capistrano in no time. Our finance department is always here to help you as well by making it easier than ever to upgrade to the latest Mercedes-Benz model.