2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 marked the introduction of the GLC-Class, replacing the GLK-Class. It came standard with a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. An optional GLC300 4MATIC variant added all-wheel drive. Owners generally appreciate the GLC300 for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. Common complaints include the COMAND infotainment system can be difficult to use, some find the engine to be underpowered, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (M274)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, decreased performance, unusual engine noise (ticking or rattling).
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the shop and location.
  • Recalls: None Found
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, long crank times, engine stalling, fuel leaks, and check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic (725.0)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or harsh shifts between gears, particularly during acceleration or deceleration. Hesitation or delay when shifting into drive or reverse.
  • Solution: Software update or transmission fluid flush. In severe cases, valve body replacement might be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for a software update/fluid flush. $1500 - $3000+ for valve body replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Oil Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible leak of transmission fluid, difficulty shifting, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace transmission pan and seal
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped with AIRMATIC)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, error messages on the dashboard, noisy air compressor, rough ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air strut(s) or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+ per strut. $800 - $1500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, unresponsive touch screen, Bluetooth connectivity issues, navigation errors, backup camera failure.
  • Solution: Software update. In some cases, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software update (if available), $1000 - $3000+ for COMAND unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Parking Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors not functioning properly, false alarms, error messages.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty parking sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor, depending on location and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, unusual noises, water leaks.
  • Solution: Sunroof track repair or replacement, seal replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Trim Pieces Coming Loose
  • Description/Symptoms: Trim pieces around the center console area becoming loose or detached.
  • Solution: Re-attaching or replacing the affected trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the piece and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat not adjusting properly or at all, motor noise but no movement.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 is generally a reliable vehicle, but it’s not without its potential issues. The most common issues seem to revolve around the engine, transmission, electrical components, and suspension (if equipped with air suspension). While some issues are minor and relatively inexpensive to fix (e.g., loose trim), others can be more significant and costly (e.g., high-pressure fuel pump or air suspension failure). Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision and budget. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.