2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG is a performance-oriented compact SUV known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It primarily comes with a 3.0L Bi-Turbo V6 engine producing 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. A 9-speed automatic transmission (9G-TRONIC) is standard. Owners appreciate the GLC43 AMG for its rapid acceleration, comfortable interior, and stylish design. Some common criticisms include its firm ride, higher running costs, and complex infotainment system.

Engine

3.0L Bi-Turbo V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, reduced power, check engine light. The turbochargers on the 3.0L Bi-Turbo V6 can fail due to oil starvation or bearing wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+ (depending on if one or both need replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant level dropping, visible coolant leaks under the vehicle, overheating. Coolant leaks are common in the 3.0L engines, often originating from the water pump or coolant hoses.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking water pump, hoses, or other cooling system components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC (9-Speed Automatic)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between lower gears (1st to 3rd), or hesitation when accelerating. This can be caused by valve body issues, or software issues.
  • Solution: Software update, valve body replacement or repair, or transmission replacement (in severe cases).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (Software Update) - $3,000+ (Valve Body/Transmission Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during light acceleration. This can indicate torque converter clutch issues.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunctions (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, “Ride Height Malfunction” warning light, compressor running excessively. This is common with air suspension systems.
  • Solution: Replace faulty air struts, compressor, or associated sensors/lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500+ for compressor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, slow response times, or failure to boot up. The COMAND infotainment system can be prone to glitches.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,500+ (Head Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms, system inoperative, warning lights. Sensors can fail due to water ingress or damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making excessive noise, or failing to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Sunroof track cleaning/lubrication, motor replacement, or complete sunroof assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG, while offering impressive performance, is prone to several issues. Engine issues such as turbocharger failure and coolant leaks, transmission issues such as rough shifting or torque converter problems, and electrical issues with the infotainment system and sensors are the most prevalent. Suspension issues also occur. Repairs can range from minor fixes to costly replacements, and the overall cost of ownership can be higher compared to less performance-oriented SUVs. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection done to identify any potential problems before buying.