So, I guess Mercedes fibbed or was mistaken when they said the 2016 GL was included in the cars that have remote start from the app. I am so bummed about this. Anyone know if this is a hardware issue or software? Any chance they might update at some point?

 

I got the same pitch from my sales guys....no remote start on the 2016. It's a new feature on the 2017 GLS.

You get the app for free....for something the car doesn't do. Wheeeee!

Your only option is a 3rd party remote starter.

 

The 2017s come with MBrace which includes remote start but only a trial. You're not missing much. The Mid City option is better in my opinion, http://www.midcityengineering.com. It can be install at MB.

 

Trial? If you consider 5 years a trial period...

 

Yes, 5 or 6 can't recall.

See the attached fact sheet.

 

I have a GLA250 and Mid City does not offer a starter for my model. http://www.midcityengineering.com
I wonder if there are any other options (in Canada)? I was advised by a local installer that because of how new the vehicle is, there is no factory security bypass available yet.

 

I found an earlier version of that document (didn't have the GLS listed) after searching the web upon finding out from mbrace support that the '16 GL didn't have the feature.

The important bit is this;
The 5 years of mbrace free is not really a 'trial'. The terminology that MB uses is "Five years of mbrace® Connect features and services are standard."

There may be MB dealers that will install a Mid City solution, but not for me locally. My local dealer was a Mid City installer, but they say they ended the relationship due to complex problems with some of the installs. I can't support or discredit that claim.

 

The MidCity "remote" start if FOB linked - but both the MidCity and VIPER FOB solution can be also linked to Smartphone remote start - point is - there are two levels of Remote Start.

Frankly - I never saw any MB claims for MB remote start for the GL - either FOB or SmartPhone.

I am grateful that earlier posts have corrected the info regarding the GLS - with 5 yrs SmartPhone remote start thru the apps..

Keep the beat !

 

After activating my MBrace for my 2017 GLS I received letters to my home which stated 'Trial' on them. The remote start option is only via the smartphone.

The Mid City solution has been around for a while. I had it installed in 2011 on my 2010 E-Class. It worked perfectly. I do wonder if MB continues to support installations since the MBrace option now exists, although Mid City remote start is a better solution.

 

Correction:

Mbrace packages:

Connect: Complimentary for 5 years (includes remote start)
Secure: 6 month trial
Entertain: 3 month trial

 

In the MBUSA.com website 'Build' tool for the 2016 GL, this terminology was used for the included 5 years of mbrace "(includes remote start)". This gave me the impression that the GL had the feature, and when I asked for confirmation from my sales folks that the GL had remote start, they both said "Yes".

Remote start via the smartphone is enough for me. I've had the feature with the Hyundai Blue Link app for my 2012 Azera since 2011. This is what I thought I was at least getting with the 2016 GL.

We liked the vehicle enough, and the GL heats up quick enough that it hasn't been too big of a deal without remote start. My greater complaint about the GL is the psycho proximity door locks and "KEYLESS GO" that sometimes has difficulty detecting the key until I press the remote unlock button...and the "driver assists" beeping at perceived threats that don't exist.

 

I agree with you. MB should not have given you this impression. I guess the correction was made with the 2017s.

For me, I'm ok with the remote start with the 2017 however the current remote start shuts off the vehicle once you attempt to enter it. Then you must start the car again. This doesn't make sense to me.

Your door locks and "KEYLESS GO" issues sound like adjustments need to be made. Did you have the dealer look at these?

 

If this behavior is unusual for this model, I will.

We only received 1 key with the vehicle and a second had to be made. The other disappeared during transportation and/or prep. We have issues with both keys that we have, and the unusual behavior makes me wonder if the missing key is stuck somewhere in the vehicle so that it's being ignored...and causing these issues.

 

On your 2nd key - you may recheck the Owner Manual/binder - then search the spare tire compartment - the 2nd key comes from the factory in a poly pack with the front license frame - it may be hanging around in that pack..

Good luck !

 

Already checked the pouch with the owner's manual. Looked into the spare tire compartment. By "license frame" is that the front mount for the license plate when it's required?