Can the Mercedes-Benz C300 be started remotely?

[StDakota]

Owners can start the vehicle directly with the key. The Mercedes-Benz C300's one-touch start button is located at the lower right corner of the dashboard. Starting/Stopping the Engine with the Key: To start, press the ignition button while firmly depressing the brake pedal. To stop, ensure the vehicle is fully stationary before pressing the ignition switch again. Starting the engine requires a significant current, so power to other devices will be temporarily cut off during ignition. Turning the Power On/Off with the Key: Sometimes, you may only need to turn on the vehicle's power. In this case, press the one-touch start button without depressing the brake pedal. To turn off, press the start button once more, and all dashboard lights will go out. Correct Gear Shifting Sequence When Turning Off the Engine: Stop the vehicle, depress the brake, shift to N (Neutral), release the brake, engage the handbrake, turn off the engine, and then shift to P (Park). Engaging the handbrake before shifting to P prevents potential slight vehicle movement, which could cause the transmission lock mechanism to bear excessive pressure and lead to mechanical impact upon restarting. Emergency Shut-off Function: In special circumstances, the engine can also be shut off while the vehicle is moving at speeds above 7 km/h. To shut off the engine, briefly press the one-touch start button twice in succession or hold it down for an extended period.

[FernandoLynn]

I've researched Mercedes' intelligent systems, and the C300 does support remote start functionality, but it depends on the specific year and configuration. Models after 2018 generally have it as standard equipment - just hold the circular lock button on the key fob for three seconds to start the engine. Older models might require the optional Intelligent Connectivity Package. The coolest feature is using the mobile app for remote start, which is super practical for cooling down the car with AC in summer. However, note there's limited remote range - the signal won't work if you're too far away. This feature gets disabled when battery voltage is low, as part of Mercedes' protection mechanism. I recommend checking the owner's manual or connecting to the Mercedes Me app to verify specific compatibility.

[LeSkylar]

As an owner of the older C300 model, my car is equipped with an OEM remote start module. Before starting, make sure all doors are locked, then press and hold the start button on the key until the turn signals flash. It's especially useful in winter, as the car is warm when you get in. However, there are three things to note: First, the engine automatically shuts off after ten minutes to prevent waste. Second, cars with modified exhaust systems may trigger the anti-theft alarm. Third, some cities have regulations limiting idling time. If the car didn't come with this feature, it's recommended to have an OEM module installed at an authorized dealership, as aftermarket ones might interfere with the electrical system.

[MacJason]

Tested several C300 models from different years, and the remote start experience varies significantly. The newer models operate smoothly via the Mercedes Me APP, automatically activating the last set air conditioning temperature upon startup. Older models require the transmission to be in P gear for the key start to respond. The most practical feature is the linked seat heating function, preventing your backside from freezing in sub-zero weather. However, this function is automatically disabled when the battery is low to prevent ignition failure. A tip: avoid using remote start with the windows slightly open, as the Mercedes anti-theft system may interpret it as abnormal and shut off the engine.

[MacJoanna]

A friend who runs a repair shop told me that the C300's remote start core is located in the ETC control unit. The key signal is verified by the body gateway to unlock the engine ECU restrictions. During startup, the system performs three additional self-checks compared to normal ignition: checking oil pressure, brake pedal position, and anti-theft status. Common issues include signal interference or water damage to the control module. If there's no response during startup, prioritize checking the key battery and ETC module connectors. Be cautious when retrofitting this feature in older cars, as aftermarket installations have a much higher failure rate than factory-installed ones.