2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK300

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 marked Mercedes-Benz’s entry into the compact luxury SUV segment. It was generally well-received for its comfortable ride, solid build quality, and distinctive boxy styling. However, it did have some common issues reported by owners. The 2010 GLK350 was available with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Some owners found the fuel economy to be lower than expected, and others disliked the somewhat firm ride quality on rough roads. The GLK350 came standard with a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, rough idling, decreased engine performance. Often accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to camshaft position.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing/Cooler Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the front of the engine, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning smell. Visible oil accumulation around the oil filter housing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket and/or oil cooler gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9) 7-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during light acceleration. Erratic shifting or complete loss of drive. Diagnostic trouble codes related to torque converter lock-up.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary if the torque converter failure has caused internal damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or getting stuck in a gear. Can trigger the “limp home” mode.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or individual solenoids within the valve body. In some cases, a software update may resolve minor issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced ride comfort and compromised handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (for both sides)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the vehicle, intermittent starting problems.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module and programming to the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating, slow or erratic window movement, clicking or grinding noise when operating the window switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Liftgate/Trunk Lid
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the license plate area or along the bottom edge of the rear liftgate/trunk lid.
  • Solution: Rust repair or replacement of the affected panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the severity, $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues (Sticking, Noise)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck when opening or closing, makes grinding or squealing noises during operation.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks and mechanism. In some cases, replacement of damaged parts may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK350, while generally a reliable vehicle, can experience a range of issues, from relatively minor electrical problems to more significant engine and transmission concerns. The severity of these issues varies, with some resulting in costly repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase. The most expensive repairs tend to be related to the transmission and electrical components.