Used Mercedes GLC 2015-2023 reliability
Category: Large SUV
The Mercedes GLC may not be as good an all-rounder as some of its rivals, but it's still well worth considering used.
What should I look for in a used Mercedes GLC estate?
When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.
The GLC will have been used in tight city-centre car parks, so it’s worth checking the bodywork for the minor scuffs that are easily picked up in such places, as well as carefully checking the alloy wheels for kerb damage. Check also the operation of the seats, especially in the rear, since these will have been raised and lowered often.
What are the most common problems with a used Mercedes GLC estate?
Some GLCs have been known to make noises when full lock is applied and the steering also seem to be susceptible to a problem known as ‘crabbing’, where the wheels on one axle of the car appear to be out of alignment with those on the other. The speed with which dealers have dealt with this has also been a source of concern, so it’s worth checking if any remedial action has been applied to any car you might be looking at.
There are three recall notices to check.
Reason for recall: Where the car incurs severe engine damage resulting in the engine failing to turn over (engine seizure) and if the driver repeatedly attempts to start the engine despite the engine not cranking the very high electrical current could lead to overheating of the starting current limiter and the potential for a fire.
How the manufacturer will repair: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and install an additional fuse in the electrical line to the starter.
Reason for recall: Where a control unit coding was updated in a workshop between 3 December 2016 and 5 December 2016 the coding may not correspond to the specification and may trigger unplanned action in the vehicle. The safety and emissions systems may not react as design intent.
How the manufacturer will repair: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the software in the corresponding control units.
Reason for recall: The propellant mix in certain seatbelt pre-tensioners ignitors may be incorrect. If the front seatbelt pre-tensioners are deployed the lock function of the pre-tensioners cannot be guaranteed.
How to check if the vehicle is recalled: Contact the local MERCEDES BENZ dealership or manufacturer. You will not need to pay for anything involving the recall.
How the manufacturer will repair: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the front seatbelts that are likely to be affected.
Click here for more information. Contact your local Mercedes dealer if you believe your vehicle is involved in a recall.
Is a used Mercedes GLC estate reliable?
The Mercedes GLC finished in 24th place in the large SUV class according our 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey and that's out of 32 cars. Most problems centred on non-engine electrics and all were fixed under warranty.
Mercedes-Benz as a car brand finished a disappointing 23rd place out of 32 manufacturers, though.
Used Mercedes GLC: owners' reliability data
As part of our 2023 Reliability Survey, What Car? readers said that the Mercedes GLC (2015-2023) has had a mixed record regarding reliability and dealer service. Owners of both petrol and diesel models reported several common issues. Electrical problems were frequently mentioned, including faulty sensors, malfunctioning infotainment systems, and persistent warning lights. Some diesel owners experienced issues with the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), leading to costly repairs. A few readers also highlighted concerns with the automatic transmission, noting jerky shifts and occasional failures.
Experiences with Mercedes dealerships varied widely. While some owners praised the efficient and courteous service they received, others expressed frustration over long wait times, high repair costs, and inconsistent communication. Several readers mentioned that issues often required multiple visits to fully resolve, which impacted their overall satisfaction.
