Used Mercedes GLC 2023-present reliability
Category: Family SUV
The Mercedes GLC has a desirable badge and a spacious interior, but it remains expensive on the used market
What should I look for in a used Mercedes GLC 4x4?
The second-generation Mercedes GLC is filled with tech, so it’s worth checking the interior electrics and infotainment system work as they should. As with any used car, it’s always important to look over the bodywork for the minor scuffs that are easily picked up in car parks, as well as carefully checking the alloy wheels for kerb damage.
When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.
What are the most common problems with a used Mercedes GLC 4x4?
There have been six recall notices so far for the second-generation Mercedes GLC. If you want to check whether any of the recalls have been carried out, you can contact your local Mercedes dealer. You will not need to pay for anything involving the recall.
Reason for recall
On affected vehicles the stabilisation of the footwell cover in the area of the accelerator pedal might be insufficient.
How the manufacturer will repair: Rework the footwell cover.
Number of affected vehicles: 820
Date of recall: 21/06/2023
Reason for recall
On affected vehicles the wheel and brake bleed bolts might not have been tightened with the required torque.
How the manufacturer will repair: Check the wheel and brake bleed bolts and tighten to the correct torque.
Number of affected vehicles: 3
Date of recall: 27/07/2023
Reason for recall
On affected vehicles the socket for the front towing device might not meet specifications.
How the manufacturer will repair: Check the towing device and replace the front cross member if necessary.
Number of affected vehicles: 2110
Date of recall: 10/11/2023
Reason for recall
On affected vehicles the bonding of the front rear and fixed side windows might not meet specifications.
How the manufacturer will repair: Replace the windows.
Number of affected vehicles: 14
Date of recall: 15/12/2023
Reason for recall
On affected vehicles the bolting of the high-pressure fuel pump might not meet specifications.
How the manufacturer will repair: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump.
Number of affected vehicles: 1
Date of recall: 30/01/2024
Reason for recall
The software of the engine control unit might not meet specifications regarding misfire detection.
How the manufacturer will repair: Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will update the software of the engine control unit on the affected vehicles.
Number of affected vehicles: 1638
Date of recall: 04/12/2024
Is a used Mercedes GLC 4x4 reliable?
The second-generation GLC didn’t feature in the latest What Car? Reliability Survey, but the previous generation car did. It finished in first place out of 15 cars in the large SUV category with a score of 97.9%, which places it above nearly all of its rivals, including the Porsche Macan (fourth), Audi Q5 petrol (fifth) and BMW X3 petrol (sixth). This bodes well for the current car, which is closely related to its predecessor.
As a brand, Mercedes didn’t perform as well in our car manufacturer reliability rankings. It finished in 22nd place out of 31 brands, which places it above Audi (24th) and Land Rover (27th), but below Volvo (12th), BMW (eighth) and Lexus (second).
If you would like to see the full reliability list, head to the What Car? Reliability Survey pages for more information.
