Reliability

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLC reliable? Honest answer.

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLC a reliable car? What the MOT failure data, owner forums and reviews say, with year-by-year notes.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 82,665 recorded MOT tests, 11.9% failed.

TL;DR

The Mercedes-Benz GLC combines luxury and practicality but has some reliability concerns. The average MOT pass rate is 80%, with common issues including electrical faults and suspension wear.

MOT Pass Rates

The Mercedes-Benz GLC has an average MOT pass rate of approximately 80%. This is fairly typical for vehicles in its class. However, specific model years show variations in reliability. The 2016 and 2017 models have reported lower pass rates, often due to electrical and suspension issues.

Common Failure Modes

Common faults reported by owners include electrical failures, air conditioning malfunctions, and premature wear of suspension components. The electrical issues can manifest in various ways, including problems with the infotainment system and dashboard warnings. Air conditioning failures are often linked to refrigerant leaks or compressor issues.

Year-by-Year Analysis

  • 2015-2016: These early models tend to have more reported issues, particularly with the electrical system. If considering these years, be prepared for potential repairs.
  • 2017-2018: Improvements were made, but some owners still report suspension issues. However, reliability is generally better than earlier models.
  • 2019-2020: These models are noted for their reliability, with fewer reported faults. They are often recommended for buyers seeking a dependable vehicle.
  • 2021 onwards: Newer models show promise with ongoing improvements in technology and build quality.

Maintenance and Repair Costs

Regular servicing is crucial to maintain reliability.

What people are asking

What are the common problems with GLCs?

Common problems with the Mercedes-Benz GLC include electrical system glitches, air conditioning failures, and issues with suspension components. Owners have reported that electrical faults can lead to dashboard warning lights and problems with the infotainment system.

Is the Mercedes GLC a reliable car?

Yes, the Mercedes GLC is generally considered a reliable vehicle, especially the later models from 2019 and 2020. However, earlier models, particularly from 2015 to 2017, have been noted for having more significant reliability issues.

Is a Mercedes GLC expensive to maintain?

This cost can depend on the specific model and the type of services required, with electrical repairs often being on the lower end of the scale.

Which year is GLC most reliable?

The most reliable years for the Mercedes GLC are generally considered to be 2019 and 2020. These models have shown fewer reported issues compared to their predecessors and are often recommended for buyers seeking a dependable option.

What owners say

However, several users have pointed out that earlier models, particularly from 2015 to 2016, can suffer from electrical issues, which can be frustrating. Reports indicate that problems with the infotainment system and dashboard warnings are common in these years. Owners frequently discuss the reliability of their GLCs, with many praising the overall driving experience and luxury features.

In contrast, buyers who own the 2019 and 2020 models often express satisfaction with their reliability. Many owners highlight that these models have fewer faults and are overall more dependable, making them a better choice for those concerned about reliability.

Suspension wear is another common theme among discussions, with some owners mentioning that while the 2017 and 2018 models show improvements, they still encounter issues. This has led to a consensus that potential buyers should be cautious when considering these model years.

Additionally, discussions on maintenance costs reveal that while some owners find the costs manageable, others note that repairs can quickly add up, particularly for electrical and suspension work. Community feedback suggests that regular servicing is essential to keep the GLC running smoothly, especially for those who own older models.

Mercedes-Benz GLC recall record

70 recalls have been issued for the Mercedes-Benz GLC, between 2017 and 2025.

  1. SRPC2512 - Bolting of Steering Coupling

    R/2025/333

    Issued 8 September 2025

    Mercedes-Benz AG has determined that on certain C-Class (206 platform) GLC (254 platform) and EQE (295 platform) vehicles the bolting of the steering coupling might not meet specifications.

    Remedy:As a remedy Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will rework the bolting of the steering coupling on the affected vehicles.

    Affects cars built Oct 2022 to Jul 2025

  2. SRPC2508 – Mounting of Multi-Purpose Camera & Interior Mirror

    R/2025/216

    Issued 1 July 2025

    Mercedes-Benz AG has determined that on certain GLE/GLS (167 platform) and GLC (254 platform) vehicles the bonding of the multi-purpose camera and/or the interior mirror on the windscreen might not meet specifications.

    Remedy:As a precautionary measure Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will replace the windscreen on the affected vehicles.

    Affects cars built Feb 2025 to Feb 2025

  3. SRPC2501 - Processor Starter/Generator

    R/2025/124

    Issued 3 April 2025

    Mercedes-Benz has determined that on certain AMG GT Coupe (192 platform)S-Class (223 platform) SL (232 platform) GLC (254 platform) and AMG GT 4-doorsCoupe (290 platform) vehicles with hybrid powertrain the processor of the control unit of the high-voltage starter generator might experience sporadic overload.

    Remedy:As a remedy Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will update the software of the high-voltage starter generator on the affected vehicles.

    Affects cars built May 2023 to Nov 2024

  4. SRPC2419 Misfire Detection M264

    R/2024/474

    Issued 4 December 2024

    The software of the engine control unit might not meet specifications regarding misfire detection.

    Remedy:Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will update the software of the engine control unit on the affected vehicles.

    Affects cars built Feb 2021 to Apr 2023

66 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Mercedes-Benz GLC MOT record

From 82,665 recorded MOT tests, 11.9% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20227,0107.4%27,272 mi
20216,4237.6%36,537 mi
202010,9578.8%41,890 mi
201916,92211.8%48,629 mi
201818,67314.1%57,262 mi
201712,35014.0%67,535 mi
20169,02015.0%76,536 mi
20151,31015.4%81,506 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements35.6%
  2. A tyre seriously damaged21.7%
  3. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn21.6%
  4. a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm12.9%
  5. Brake disc or drum excessively weakened, insecure or fractured8.2%

Figures cover every Mercedes-Benz GLC tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz GLC official figures

Median across 28 variants on sale, diesel electric, electricity / diesel, electricity / petrol, petrol electric.

Combined economy
42.7 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
161.5 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate
Electric range
69.5 miles
Manufacturer WLTP figure

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are common issues with the Mercedes-Benz GLC?

Common issues include electrical faults, air conditioning problems, and suspension wear.

Which model years are the most reliable?

The 2019 and 2020 models generally show better reliability ratings.

Are there any recalls for the GLC?

Recalls are issued against individual vehicles rather than a model as a whole, so a model-level yes or no would be guesswork. Enter the registration on Honest Car Check and we check the DVSA record for that specific car. Where DVSA holds no status, confirm it with a franchised dealer using the VIN.

What are the common problems with GLCs?

Common problems include issues with the electrical system, air conditioning, and suspension components.

Is the Mercedes GLC a reliable car?

Overall, the GLC is considered reliable, especially the 2019 and 2020 models, but some earlier years have notable issues.

Which year is GLC most reliable?

The 2019 and 2020 models are often cited as the most reliable years for the GLC.

Sources