2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC250

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC250 is a popular compact luxury SUV praised for its comfortable ride, upscale interior, and agile handling. The GLC250 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful option, it offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. Other engine options for the 2018 GLC include the GLC300 with the same 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder but slightly more power at 241hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The GLC350e Plug-in Hybrid with a 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder and electric motor boasting 315hp and 413lb-ft of torque combined. And the GLC43 and GLC63 AMG variants with high-performance V6 and V8 engines, respectively. All engines are paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Some common likes are its luxurious interior, smooth ride and handling, and abundant technology features. Common dislikes include the relatively high price point and some complaints about the infotainment system.

Engine

2.0L Turbo Inline-4 (GLC250/GLC300)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations including the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal is the common fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+ depending on the location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the turbocharger, including premature failure or reduced performance. Symptoms include loss of power, unusual noises from the engine, and check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Hybrid (GLC350e)

• No Issues Found

Engine (AMG Models)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic (All Models)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced rough or delayed shifting, particularly when cold. Hesitation during acceleration is also reported.
  • Solution: Software update/reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, a full transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $5,000+ depending on severity and repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable shudder or vibration, especially at lower speeds and during light acceleration. Often related to the torque converter not locking up properly.
  • Solution: In minor cases, a transmission fluid flush may resolve the issue. In other cases, the torque converter may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Some GLC models are equipped with air suspension, which can experience problems such as air leaks, compressor failure, or ride height issues. Symptoms include a sagging vehicle, inability to adjust ride height, and warning lights.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected component (air spring, compressor, or control module).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking, creaking, or clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace worn bushings, ball joints, or struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or failure to connect to devices.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after sitting for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic drain. Potential causes include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, or other driver-assistance systems.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty sensors or modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor/module.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including failure to open or close properly, unusual noises, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof components (motor, tracks, seals).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seat motors failing, preventing the seat from adjusting properly.
  • Solution: Seat motor or seat assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC250 is a generally reliable vehicle, but owners have reported some common issues. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems can be costly, particularly on higher mileage vehicles. Transmission issues, such as rough shifting and torque converter shudder, are also areas to pay attention to. Electrical and interior issues can be irritating, but are generally less expensive to repair. The air suspension, if equipped, requires careful inspection. While the severity and cost of these issues can vary, potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and factor them into their purchasing decision.