In a surprising (and frustrating) move for many car owners, Mercedes-Benz and its sub-brand Smart have left thousands of customers in the lurch by failing to upgrade older vehicles with modern 4G connectivity. As mobile networks across the globe shut down 2G and 3G infrastructure, many Mercedes-Benz and Smart vehicles, some as new as 2024, are now unable to access key connected features like remote locking, pre-conditioning, vehicle status checks, and GPS location tracking.
A Luxury Brand, Cutting Corners?
When it comes to cutting costs, you’d expect such decisions from budget carmakers, not from one of the most prestigious names in the industry. Yet, while other manufacturers, including Hyundai and Toyota, offered paid (and in some cases free) 4G modem upgrades, Mercedes-Benz offered no upgrade path at all.
The most shocking part? Many of these vehicles were built after 4G had become standard in smartphone, as early as 2013. Despite knowing that 2G and 3G networks were being phased out, Mercedes-Benz continued to build and sell cars with outdated modems, with Smart even shipping 2024 models with 3G-only capability.
The Result: Disconnected Cars, Angry Owners
This decision has had a direct impact on owners across Europe. Thousands discovered only recently that their Mercedes ME and Smart EQ mobile apps would no longer function from 2025 onwards. The backlash has been loud and clear, from Reddit forums to Facebook groups, disappointed owners are voicing their frustrations.
Even owners who proactively installed aftermarket 4G modules have been blocked. Reports suggest Mercedes-Benz has taken steps to disable access to connected services, even on upgraded vehicles, a move that many see as anti-consumer and in stark contrast to what a luxury brand should represent.
Where Carmakers Fail, Phantom Guard Steps In
At GuardOn, we believe vehicle connectivity and security should be in the hands of the owner, not subject to a manufacturer’s decisions years after the car is sold.
That’s why we created Phantom Guard, our advanced Ghost Immobiliser and GPS Tracking solution that puts you back in control.
Whether you’re driving a Mercedes-Benz, Smart, or any other vehicle, Phantom Guard provides:
- Real-time GPS tracking, independent of your car’s onboard systems.
- Remote immobilisation to prevent theft.
- Vehicle status alerts and location history, all accessible via our secure mobile app.
- Protection from relay attacks and key cloning, which are becoming increasingly common in modern vehicles.
Don’t Let Your Carmaker Control Your Security
It’s clear: connected features are no longer a luxury, they’re an expectation. When manufacturers choose to cut corners, the result is a breakdown in trust. But with Phantom Guard, you don’t have to rely on them.
Whether your vehicle is losing its connectivity or you’re just serious about protecting your investment, Phantom Guard ensures that your car stays secure, connected, and traceable, no matter what network changes come your way.
Ready to Take Back Control?
Protect your vehicle with Phantom Guard today.
📞 02080587115 – Contact us now to book an installation or learn more about how GuardOn can keep your vehicle safe and connected.