blittle

As you guys try out your 6mo. free trial of all the functions of MBrace....let us know what you think is worth it and what is not!

vertrkr

The most intriguing aspect for me is the ability to send software updates to your car. MB doesn't specify what type though, ecu, nav, command... I've searched alot on the issue but there's really no other info than MB says it can do that. I'd love to think they'll constantly be updating/improving their systems this way but I suspect it would happen rarely and probably only for critical stuff but one can hope.

From MB: "Beyond allowing you to perform a check of your vehicle's main systems remotely, mbrace2 can automatically alert you to potential issues before they become full-fledged problems. In addition, it enables your vehicle to receive software updates wirelessly through the mbrace2 network. "

blittle

That's pretty impressive! So.....you can actually get a visual-remote report on "main systems".....via smart phones and/or iPad?

Pewterslk320

These features will make Mbrace2 worth but they are not available yet. In fact, I called Mbrace and they indicated that the diagnostic feature will be available by the end of 2013.

I very much doubt they will push software updates using Mbrace2.

blittle

I wish they would get the diagnostic aspect up and running soon..... the software updates probably would be possible but given the potential for a bad download or something of that nature that could really screw up your vehicle, i doubt that they will be doing that.

vertrkr

Corruption issues aside I'd think MB wants this to save money so they don't have to pay warranty labor costs to dealers. There may be some legal issues in some states requiring dealers to handle all work & sales. There was a recent lawsuit issue in NY & Massachusetts about Tesla selling direct to customers which had the dealer franchise union up in arms.

fabbrisd1

Please understand with a new MB you get a "free 6 mo trial" of the standard features - the mBrace apps and extended features are a 3 month "trial".

About 1 month before end of the 3 monther - you will get a letter advising you if you do not cancel - the trial will rollover to paid - use "i" button to call mBrace Customer service if you wish to cancel that apps/extended at end of free trial.

Same scenario, in about 5 months you will get letter advising soon-to-end free trial standard features - again, if you choose cancel use "i" button to contact customer service.

Steve Maislin

So, they offered 36 months for $720. Since the offer won't change, I won't consider it until June, when my free trial comes to an end.

JimBarnhart

Yes, the discount doesn't make much sense. Same discount whether 1 year, 2 year, 3 year or 4 year. Hard to understand why you would commit to longer terms. There is no incentive.

Steve Maislin

Yes, the program is poorly conceived in regard to costing.

2013 GL450

The apps aren't worth it - the speeds are way too slow. Another thread said they could use their mobile phone connection but i am unable to. IMHO, not worth it.

But I did sign up for the basic service after the trial for three reasons (all related to the iphone app) - 1) I find the ability to send addresses to the navigation system compelling since I find the interface in the car difficult 2) I like the valet alerts - i get a text when the car goes outside of a certain area or when someone starts the car and 3) I can locate my car on a map using the iphone app.

Steve Maislin

Did you get the 14% discount?

blittle

I too will reup for the basic service...... there are good things to being connected at that level. The optional stuff is a joke UNLESS you are someone who can, wants or needs to use the "concierge" stuff.....not me. The apps are useless in the age of Ipads and other tablet connectivity.

2013 GL450

turns out i didn't sign up but when i called they said i was going to get a letter to re-up for basic service because my trial was ending. i did get the 14% discount.

JimBarnhart

I agree, I find the base service useful. My wife is going with the girls in the GL today. She asked if I could help program in the address of her destination in the nav. I said no worries honey, when you turn on the GL it will ask you to download your destination, I've had it sent with the mbrace app on my android.

Sure enough, it was there and ready for her.

blittle

Yep....that's the good stuff!

Pewterslk320

MBrace2 started an update today. The representative told me that my car will be getting an update over the air. Hopefully the Vehicle Health report promised a year ago comes with it.