2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK350

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 is a compact luxury SUV known for its blend of practicality, comfort, and Mercedes-Benz refinement. It was offered with a single engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the GLK350 for its solid build quality, comfortable ride, and relatively fuel-efficient engine. Criticisms generally revolve around its somewhat dated infotainment system, limited rear seat space, and higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury SUVs.

Engine

3.5L V6 (M272)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid (Cam Magnets) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, rough idling, poor performance, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to camshaft timing (e.g., P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019). Oil may leak from the solenoids.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid(s) and cleaning any oil residue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (depending on the number of solenoids replaced and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing/Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil filter housing or oil cooler area, resulting in visible oil spots under the vehicle or a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket or the entire oil filter housing/cooler assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise, especially on startup, can indicate a failing timing chain tensioner. If left unaddressed, a worn tensioner can lead to timing chain failure, causing significant engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and inspection of the timing chain for wear.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission slipping, getting stuck in one gear, or complete loss of transmission function. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to solenoids, speed sensors, or valve body issues are often present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate, which contains the transmission control unit (TCU) and speed sensors. Some shops may recommend replacing the valve body as well.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, hesitation during acceleration, abnormal noises (whining or rattling) from the transmission area.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. Often, the transmission fluid should be flushed, and the transmission inspected for damage caused by debris from the failing torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear may also occur.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower control arm bushings or the entire lower control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock properly, requiring multiple attempts to operate the locks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) / Steering Lock
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, inability to turn the key in the ignition, or complete failure to start. Can be accompanied by a “click” sound but no engine turnover.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS/steering lock module and potentially reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck when opening or closing, make excessive noise, or leak water.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubrication of the sunroof tracks and mechanism. In severe cases, replacement of the sunroof motor or entire sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Fan Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control fan may stop working, make excessive noise, or only operate at certain speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the climate control fan motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Radio Head Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or radio screen may freeze, become unresponsive, or fail to power on.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$2000+ depending on if an aftermarket unit is used or if it is replaced by the dealer.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK350, while generally a reliable vehicle, can be susceptible to certain issues. The most common problems involve the engine and transmission, potentially leading to costly repairs such as camshaft adjuster solenoid replacement, conductor plate replacement, or torque converter replacement. Electrical issues, such as door lock actuator or EIS failures, can also be a nuisance. It is important for prospective buyers to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic, paying close attention to these potential trouble areas. While many issues are not catastrophic, repair costs tend to be higher than those of non-luxury vehicles, due to part prices and specialized labor requirements.