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2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 is a compact SUV that blends luxury and practicality. The GLK350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the GLK350’s solid build quality, comfortable ride, and classic Mercedes-Benz styling. Common complaints include a somewhat dated interior, firm suspension, and relatively high maintenance costs.

Engine

3.5L V6 (M276)

  • Camshaft Adjuster Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise upon startup, rough idling, check engine light. This is often due to wear of the camshaft adjuster, leading to incorrect camshaft timing.
    • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft adjuster(s) and possibly the timing chain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets/Timing Cover)
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the valve covers or timing cover, burning oil smell, low oil level.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets or resealing the timing cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Thermostat Housing Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, low coolant level.
    • Solution: Replace thermostat housing.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC 7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

  • Torque Converter Lock-Up Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration, particularly at highway speeds.
    • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, or getting stuck in gear. This is often caused by worn solenoids or internal damage within the valve body.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or a complete transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Conductor Plate Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission stuck in gear, limp mode, inability to shift, fault codes related to speed sensors.
    • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front Suspension Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, particularly over bumps, uneven tire wear, vague steering.
    • Solution: Replacement of the lower control arm or just the bushings if possible.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Subframe Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or creaking noises from the rear suspension, particularly when accelerating or decelerating, vague handling, rear-end instability.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear subframe bushings. This can be a labor-intensive job.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the vehicle, steering wheel locked.
    • Solution: Replacement of the EIS and potentially reprogramming.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in various electrical systems, such as lights, wipers, or power windows. Can be caused by water intrusion or electrical faults.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific SAM module causing the issue and replacement or reprogramming.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, car unable to start after sitting for a short period of time.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the circuit causing the parasitic draw.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sunroof Issues (Motor/Mechanism)
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making grinding noises, or getting stuck.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Navigation Screen Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Blank screen, flickering, or unresponsive touch screen.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the navigation screen or head unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking with the key fob or interior switch.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine issues, such as camshaft adjuster failure and oil leaks, can be costly to repair. Transmission problems with the 7G-TRONIC transmission, including torque converter issues and valve body failures, are also prevalent and can lead to expensive repairs. Suspension issues, specifically with the lower control arm bushings and rear subframe bushings, can affect handling and ride quality. Electrical problems, such as EIS failure and SAM module issues, can also occur. Overall, while the GLK350 offers a luxurious driving experience, potential buyers should be prepared for potentially higher-than-average maintenance and repair costs, with repairs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand depending on the issue.

Mercedes-Benz, GLK350
Mercedes-Benz GLK350 2013
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