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2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 0safety recalls
- 140owner complaints
- 10crash reports
- 2fire reports
- 15%fail the UK MOT
The most complained-about Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class year on file: 140 complaints, against an average of 65 for the other 10 model years.
Every Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
The components named most often in the 140 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 140 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?17 owners · 12.1%
- Why does my 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class smell of fuel or gas?15 owners · 10.7%
- Why do the brakes feel soft, fail or make noise on my 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?8 owners · 5.7%
- Why does my 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class stall, lose power or shut off while driving?5 owners · 3.6%
- Has the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class had engine failures?5 owners · 3.6%
- Why does my 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class idle rough, misfire or hesitate?5 owners · 3.6%
Has the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class been recalled?
NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class as of October 25, 2026. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN before you rely on this.
Is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSAOn affected vehicles the panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof might not have been bonded correctly during a…On affected vehicles the panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof might not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.
Risk: On affected vehicles the panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof might not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.
Fix: Check the front fixed element of the panoramic sliding sunroof and replace if necessary.
UK DVSAOn affected vehicles the aluminium bolts of the steering gear could corrode and break due to the intrusion of moisture.
Risk: On affected vehicles the aluminium bolts of the steering gear could corrode and break due to the intrusion of moisture.
Fix: Replace the steering gear mounting bolts on the affected vehicles with steel bolts. Should the bolts break or already be broken change the steering gear.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAVehicles with a panoramic sunroofthe polycarbonate panel may not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair
Risk: The polycarbonate panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.
Fix: Remove the bonded panel and install a new polycarbonate panel if required.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe connection of the gas lines of the inertisation system might not meet specifications
Risk: The connection of the gas lines of the inertisation system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Check and if necessary rework the gas lines of the inertisation system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe communication module may be deactivated
Risk: The communication module may be deactivated
Fix: Carry out a check of the configuration of the communication module on affected vehicles and if necessary activate the communication module.
UK DVSAEngine control unit software to be updated
Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.
Fix: Update the relevant control unit's software and if necessary replace the NOx sensors.
UK DVSATo improve emissions of the affected vehicles.certain calibrations of functionalities must be changed in the engine management
Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.
Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software and add a supplementary booklet for the operator's manual
UK DVSAElectrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded
Risk: The steering column clock spring may break. This will cause warning messages to illuminate in the instrument cluster but in extreme instances it may cause the driver's airbag to deploy.
Fix: Affected vehicles will be recalled to establish sufficient grounding of the steering components
UK DVSAAirbag control unit connection may not be manufactured to specificationYears estimated
Risk: The connector pins of the occupant classification system to the airbag control unit might have been manufactured outside specification. After a period of time this may cause decativation of the passnger airbag.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace the connector pins of the occupant classification system.
UK DVSASteering components may be insufficiently grounded
Risk: It has been determined that the steering airbag electrical components are insufficiently grounded. Failure of the steering column module clock spring could result in an inadvertent deployment of the driver airbag which may cause risk of injury to the driver and an increased risk of a potential collision.
Fix: On affected vehicles the manufacturer will fit a contact bridge to the outer race of the steering column top bearing which will provide correct grounding.
UK DVSAElectrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded
Risk: The steering column clock spring may break. This will cause warning messages to illuminate in the instrument cluster but in extreme instances it may cause the driver's airbag to deploy.
Fix: Affected vehicles will be recalled to establish sufficient grounding of the steering components.
UK DVSAElectrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded
Risk: The steering column clock spring may break. This will cause warning messages to illuminate in the instrument cluster but in extreme instances it may cause the driver's airbag to deploy.
Fix: Affected vehicles will be recalled to establish sufficient grounding of the steering components.
UK DVSABonding of the windshield may be inadequateYears estimated
Risk: The bonding of the windshield in the lower area may not correspond to the specification. During a collision the bonding may fail and the windscreen may detach. This could have an adverse affect on the effectiveness of the passenger airbag.
Fix: On affected vehicles check bonding and if necessary replace windscreen.
UK DVSAFront seat belt tensioners may not function
Risk: The front seatbelt pre-tensioner ignitors may not perform as expected. This could increase the risk of injury to the seat occupants. The lock function of the seatbelts is not impaired.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace seatbelts with quality assured units.
UK DVSAElectrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded
Risk: The steering column clock spring may break. This will cause warning messages to illuminate in the instrument cluster but in extreme instances it may cause the driver's airbag to deploy.
Fix: Affected vehicles will be recalled to establish sufficient grounding of the steering components.
UK DVSAFront and side plastic covers of the panoramic sunroof may not be bonded to specificationYears estimated
Risk: The bonding retaining front and side plastic covers on the sunroof may not meet specification. As a result these could detach whilst the vehicle is in motion.
Fix: On affected vehicles check trims and where necessary re-bond trims.
UK DVSARight front seat belt pre-tensioner may not meet specification
Risk: The right front seat belt pretensioner may not conform to specification . This may adversely affect it's operation in the event of an accident.
Fix: Replace the pretensioner on affected vehicles.
UK DVSALeft front seat belt pre-tensioner may not meet specification
Risk: The propellant mix in certain seatbelt pre-tensioners ignitors may be incorrect. If the front seatbelt pre-tensioners are deployed the lock function of the pre-tensioners cannot be guaranteed.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the front seatbelts that are likely to be affected.
UK DVSAStarting current limiter may overload
Risk: Where the car incurs severe engine damage resulting in the engine failing to turn over (engine seizure) and if the driver repeatedly attempts to start the engine despite the engine not cranking the very high electrical current could lead to overheating of the starting current limiter and the potential for a fire.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and install an additional fuse in the electrical line to the starter.
UK DVSAFaulty control unit may cause vehicle to perform outside specification
Risk: Where a control unit coding was updated in a workshop between 3 December 2016 and 5 December 2016 the coding may not correspond to the specification and may trigger unplanned action in the vehicle. The safety and emissions systems may not react as design intent.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the software in the corresponding control units.
EU Safety GateThe three aluminium screws of the steering box may corrode due to exposure to spray water and aggressive road-grit (salt) used for melting…The three aluminium screws of the steering box may corrode due to exposure to spray water and aggressive road-grit (salt) used for melting ice. Advanced corrosion could weaken the screws, leading to potential breakage during manoeuvring or parking. If all fixing screws fail, the power-assisted steering could detach, resulting in a loss of power steering and an increased risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe aluminium bolts of the steering box may break.This can lead to detachment of the steering box from the power block, creating a risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateA trapped particle may damage the sealing between the fuel rail and fuel injector, which could cause fuel to leak into the engine…A trapped particle may damage the sealing between the fuel rail and fuel injector, which could cause fuel to leak into the engine compartment. Consequently, leaking fuel may come into contact with hot parts of the engine, increasing the risk of fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe polycarbonate roof panel located between the windscreen and the panoramic roof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle…The polycarbonate roof panel located between the windscreen and the panoramic roof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair. In such cases, the adhesive bonding could gradually deteriorate and the panel could become detached from the vehicle, posing a risk to other road users.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateFaulty connection of the inerting system’s gas pipes could impair the intended distribution of argon shielding gas to the points where…Faulty connection of the inerting system’s gas pipes could impair the intended distribution of argon shielding gas to the points where there could be contact between the leaking refrigerant R1234yf and hot engine components in the event of an accident.This would reduce the cooling effect of the inerting gas, leading to increased risk of fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe steering column is not sufficiently earthed.As a result, in the event of an electrostatic discharge, the driver's airbag may be triggered when not required. This could cause an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe starter current limiter may be overloaded and overheat.As a consequence, the surrounding components could ignite, leading to a fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 01/09/2017
EU Safety GateThe propellant mixing ratio in certain seat-belt pre-tensioner igniters may be incorrect.As a result, in the event of an accident where the front seat-belt pre-tensioners are activated, the pre-tensioners would not provide the restraint performance required if the igniter did not ignite as intended. This could put the occupants at a greater risk of injury.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateFollowing the update of the control unit coding, the coding parameters of the control unit could be defective.This could give rise to various unplanned reactions in the vehicle: the wrong airbag could be triggered in the event of an accident, the airbag control unit may not recognise the belt buckle status, the engine control unit could be coded with a false maximum speed or various assistance systems may not function.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe electronic parking brake might not function.This might lead to a greater risk of accidents or injuries for other road users.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateFuel may leak from the fuel pump.If diesel fuel leaks onto the road, it may expose other vehicles to a risk of accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe on-board high-voltage battery charger may malfunction.As a consequence it may incorrectly detect that an external charging cable has been inserted. If the vehicle is travelling at a speed of less than 5 km/h, this could lead to the activation of the park-lock function which would prevent further movement of the vehicle.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateWiring in the vicinity of the steering column could be damaged which might cause failure of indicators, gear selection, electronic…Wiring in the vicinity of the steering column could be damaged which might cause failure of indicators, gear selection, electronic stability control and electric power steering.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
How often does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class fail its MOT?
Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2016, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What do 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class owners report?
12 of the 140 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
The steering tilt motor is stripped and will not move up or down and is stuck in the full "UP" position. Unable to adjust for the driving position.
SUNROOF will not closed , refuse to close on my car
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) To whom It May Concern, Complaint through your dealer, regional MB and state AG. Going through MBUSA is a waste of time. You would be better off going to Sears and buying a shiny new hammer and banging your head every hour on the hour. A little over a year ago, I Purchase a previously owned 2016 GLC300 from a local DGDG dealership in San Jose CA. for the past few month, I started experiencing a heavy fuel odor generated from the fuel rail and fuel injectors. I initiated a leak detection to verify the above-mentioned defect. I became aware the Mercedes Benz has a major…
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the Emissions Center, and the vehicle failed the Emissions test. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The dealer retrieved DTC: P052E (PCM has detected an inappropriate degree of pressure from the crankcase pressure sensor). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that while driving 45-50 MPH, the engine experienced rough idling and the vehicle was shaking violently. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact pulled over and turned off the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who determined that cylinder #1 had a cracked piston and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then towed to another independent mechanic, who also determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the…
PVC valve indicator engine light keeps appearing after being replaced twice
I have noticed extreme gas odors in the cabin of my car, the gas odor is so horrific that even when I exit the car either outside or in my garage the odor remains. My car is housed in my garage and I'm very concerned regarding these fumes which fills up my garage because my home is attached. I researched on a web site that there has been complaints and consequently a recall ( 21V961000) ON 12-12-2021 FOR GLC 300,2016, But my vehicle did not receive a recall notice. I am concerned regarding possible fire or illness related to fumes being inhaled.
Raw fuel smell when vehicle is at idle. Breaks are very loud at low temperatures. Very squeaky like metal on metal yet the brakes are like new from Mercedes dealership.
The vehicle engine amber light on, everything else looks like normally. Bring the vehicle to Mercedes dealership to diagnose and fix. After dealership fix, we find out this vehicle maximum speed is 61 during driving on the freeway and it cannot speed over 61. Also, the engine amber light is on again and seatbelt is not working well. We have safety concerns when driving this vehicle on the freeway. Thanks.
Continuous problem with brakes squealing very loud. Have had brake pads replaced and taken to dealership multiple times to no resolution. It is a huge problem with how loud it is not to mention unsafe and making me feel uneasy about them giving out at any time. This is ongoing from several years ago
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 MERCEDES BENZ GLC300. THE CONTACT STATED HE PLACED THE GEAR SHIFTER IN PARK WHILE ENGINE WAS RUNNING HOWEVER VEHICLE ROLLED ACROSS THE STREET AND CRASHED INTO A STONE WALL. THE CONTACT OPENED THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR HOWEVER, VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP. THERE WERE NO REPORTED INJURIES OR FIRE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT LOT. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 29,000.
VEHICLE WAS GOING ON THE LEFT MOST LANE OF THE I580 EASTBOUND AT ADAPTIVE CRUISE AT 65MPH. BOTH STEERING AND SPEED WAS UNDER CONTROL BY THE THE ADAPTIV E CRUISE FEATURE. I WAS HAVING MY HAND ON THE STEERING AND FOOT ON THE BRAKE. ALL OF SUDDEN CAR TOOK LEFT TURN ON ITS OWN AND CRASHED INTO SIDE CONCRETE RAIL FOLLOWED BY A QUICK TURN AND CAME BACK TO THE HALT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE 2ND HIGHWAY LANE. THINGS HAPPENED SO QUICKLY THAT I COULD NOT EVEN REALIZE WHAT HAPPENED TO THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE WHICH LEAD TO THIS SUDDEN TURN. I WOULD LIKE YOU OR NHTSA TO INVESTIGATE THE MATTER. I AM 7 MONTH PREGNENT…
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2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class: questions owners ask
Is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 140 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class; the most common categories were engine (40, 28.6%), service brakes (29, 20.7%), fuel/propulsion system (18, 12.9%). There are no safety recalls listed for this model year. 10 complaints mention a crash, 2 mention a fire, 6 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
Across 140 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are engine (28.6% of complaints), service brakes (20.7% of complaints), fuel/propulsion system (12.9% of complaints), air bags (8.6% of complaints), electrical system (8.6% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class have any recalls?
As of October 2026, NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
17 of the 140 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (12.1%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "Check engine light on-pvc failure. Code PO52E-71as determined by reliable repair shop. Recommended to have vehicle repaired by dealer. Shop advised part is vital to emissions system." (NHTSA complaint 11614470, September 2024). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class smell of fuel or gas?
15 of the 140 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (10.7%) describe a fuel or gasoline smell, or a fuel leak. One owner wrote: "I own a 2016 Mercedes Benz GLC 300 and I’ve noticed that a strong gas smell when I start the car during cold weather. You notice the smell outside and inside the cabin as well as it comes in through the vents." (NHTSA complaint 11556614, November 2023). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why do the brakes feel soft, fail or make noise on my 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
8 of the 140 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (5.7%) describe brakes feeling soft, failing, grinding or squealing. One owner wrote: "Continuous problem with brakes squealing very loud. Have had brake pads replaced and taken to dealership multiple times to no resolution." (NHTSA complaint 11455565, March 2022). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
5 of the 140 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (3.6%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "I lost power on while driving at speed and almost got rear-ended before pulling over. I had to tow the car to a mechanic. After diagnosis it turned out the pistons are cracked and had to be replaced as well as the rod bearings." (NHTSA complaint 11541304, August 2023). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Has the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class had engine failures?
5 of the 140 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (3.6%) describe complete engine failure or a replaced engine. One owner wrote: "When driving the car, the engine began to violently shake and fail. The engine ended up having a piston failure due to a small wrist pin and needed the entire engine block replaced." (NHTSA complaint 11606306, August 2024). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class idle rough, misfire or hesitate?
5 of the 140 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (3.6%) describe rough idling, misfires or hesitation when accelerating. One owner wrote: "Tl* the contact owns a 2016 mercedes-benz glc 300. the contact stated that the vehicle hesitated while the accelerator pedal was depressed. the failure occurred without warning on seven occasions." (NHTSA complaint 10917475, October 2016). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own GLC-Class
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2016 only; combines NHTSA's entries for GLC and GLC-CLASS.