As I wait to take delivery of my GL450, I've been thinking about whether or not to have the dealer install a remote starter. Living in the northeast, I have many opportunities to take advantage of warming up the interior in the winter remotely and would love the option.

That being said, I have heard from several people that due to MB's technology, a remote starter is not recommended and may cause problems with other systems in the car.

Just curious as to the opinions from this forum.

 

Look into a Webasto standalone heater which is the OEM solution to a remote start. MB offers it as a factory option for the European markets. (hint Google keywords MBworld MbenzNL and Webasto).

 

Check out this link for the SKS166. I have not tried it. The local installation place wanted a $1000 for it installed. So, I am thinking that I will just be dependent on the heated seats and steering wheel and hope for some global warming.

http://smartkeystarter.com

 

Thanks, Steve. I believe this is the system that the dealer would install (I ordered the car through MB of Westwood and the website says that they are an authorized installer).

I just don't want to harm the car in any way by adding this feature.

 

Let me know what they quote you for the price. I went to the installer in Framingham called Luxury Details on Rt 9. There is no way I would go with anything else with all of the electronics that is hooked into the starter systems.

 

Will do. I expect delivery mid-March (build date is Feb. 20).

 

Steve: the dealer quoted $1700 today for the sks remote starter installation. They claim it is $200 higher than their regular price because I'm getting keyless-go. Since I was on the fence to begin with, I declined.

They did say that the sks166 is the only one that MB "authorizes" as far as warranties are concerned.

 

Like I said earlier, the place in Framingham, MA quoted $1000 for the sks166. Place is called Luxury Details. Even at $1000 I was reticent. I am keeping it in mind for next winter just in case I get feeble. :-) I must say though that the heated seats work very well and the heat seems to come on line quickly. I really enjoy this SUV.

Bottom Line: I don't see me adding this as an option.