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2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class problems, recalls and owner complaints

What the 2018 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
  • 99owner complaints
  • 5crash reports
  • 1fire report
  • 12%fail the UK MOT

99 complaints, against an average of 70 for the other 10 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class 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 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

The components named most often in the 99 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.

  1. Engine32 (32.3%)
  2. Electrical System15 (15.2%)
  3. Structure11 (11.1%)
  4. Power Train10 (10.1%)
  5. Fuel/Propulsion System8 (8.1%)
  6. Seat Belts8 (8.1%)
  7. Air Bags7 (7.1%)
  8. Service Brakes6 (6.1%)

What symptoms do 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class owners describe?

Found by reading the text of all 99 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.

Has the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class been recalled?

NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2018 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 2018 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 DVSASRPC2603 - Drive Shaft JointDrive Shaft Joint Recall R/2026/148 · Sep 21, 2026 · built Dec 2017 to Sep 2019 · Risk and fix

Risk: Mercedes-Benz AG has determined that on certain 4MATIC E-Class (213 platform) S-Class Coupé (217 platform) S-Class (222 platform) E-Class Coupe/Convertible (238 platform) GLC (253 platform) and CLS (257 platform) vehicles increased wear of the universal joint on the drive shaft might occur.

Fix: As a remedy Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will check the drive shaft on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

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. Recall R/2024/024 · Feb 7, 2024 · built Sep 2012 to Mar 2018 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAA particle in the fuel rail might lead to a leak between the fuel rail and the injector Recall R/2022/061 · Mar 24, 2022 · built Jul 2018 to Sep 2019 · Risk and fix

Risk: A particle in the fuel rail might lead to a leak between the fuel rail and the fuel injector.

Fix: Replace the fuel rail and fuel injectors on the affected vehicles.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSACoolant pump might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit Recall R/2021/438 · Jan 21, 2022 · built Apr 2017 to Oct 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: On certain vehicles with a Diesel engine the coolant pump which is controlled by vacuum might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit.

Fix: Update the software of the coolant pump and replace the electrical switch valve on the affected vehicles.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/106 · Dec 1, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/107 · Dec 1, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/130 · Dec 1, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/376 · Nov 29, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAVehicles with a panoramic sunroofthe polycarbonate panel may not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair Recall R/2021/274 · Aug 20, 2021 · built Jul 2013 to Oct 2019 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/110 · May 13, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/120 · May 11, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/111 · May 10, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe connection of the gas lines of the inertisation system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/121 · May 7, 2021 · built Apr 2016 to Nov 2020 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/128 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/129 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/131 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/132 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/133 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications Recall R/2021/134 · May 5, 2021 · built Jan 2016 to Jan 2021 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe communication module may be deactivated Recall R/2021/082 · Mar 30, 2021 · built May 2016 to Jul 2020 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe software of certain communication modules may not meet specifications Recall R/2021/083 · Mar 30, 2021 · built Feb 2017 to Mar 2020 · Risk and fix

Risk: The software of certain communication modules may not meet specifications.

Fix: Carry out an update to the software of the communication module on affected vehicles.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe screw connection of the power supply on the starter may not have been installed according to specification Recall R/2021/027 · Mar 9, 2021 · built Jan 2018 to Jan 2020 · Risk and fix

Risk: The screw connection of the power supply on the starter might not have been installed according to specification.

Fix: Check the screw connections of the starter on the affected vehicles and correct them if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe high voltage wiring harness shield may not permanently withstand the electrical loads that are induced under certain driving profiles Recall R/2020/334 · Dec 2, 2020 · built Jan 2018 to Feb 2020 · Risk and fix

Risk: The shield for the high-voltage wiring harness may not permanently withstand the electrical loads that are induced under certain driving profiles

Fix: Replace the high-voltage wiring harness on the affected vehicles

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe software of the esp control unit may not meet the specifications Recall R/2020/239 · Oct 9, 2020 · built Apr 2018 to Oct 2019 · Risk and fix

Risk: The software of the ESP control unit might not meet the specifications.

Fix: Update the software for the ESP control unit on the affected vehicles.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe emergency call system (ecall) does not meet the specification Recall R/2020/236 · Oct 6, 2020 · built Mar 2017 to Sep 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: On affected vehicles the software of the communication module for the emergency call system does not meet the specification

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAEngine control unit software to be updated Recall R/2020/243 · Oct 6, 2020 · built Nov 2011 to May 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.

Fix: Update the relevant control unit's software and if necessary replace the NOx sensors.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe data documenting the correct mounting of the turbocharger oil feed as well as the oil return line may be missing Recall R/2020/225 · Aug 25, 2020 · built Jun 2018 to Mar 2020 · Risk and fix

Risk: The HV battery pack can overheat and result in the venting of hot gas which can ignite vehicle components or in extreme cases the entire vehicle.

Fix: To prevent a vehicle fire the vehicles should not be charged using the external charging cable and the vehicles should only be driven using the default Auto EV mode only

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSACertain front seat belt buckles may not have been manufactured according to specification Recall R/2019/372 · Aug 3, 2020 · built Jun 2018 to Oct 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: A correctly fastened seat belt could be detected as not fastened impairing the restraint system

Fix: Check the relevant seat belt buckles in the affected vehicles and replace if necessary

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe four locknuts securing the air bag might be missing Recall R/2019/337 · Nov 5, 2019 · built Aug 2018 to Sep 2019 · Risk and fix

Risk: Certain driver airbag modules might not be bolted onto the base plate.

Fix: Check the driver airbag on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAAn internal sensor within the electric power steering unit may not have been manufactured to specifications Recall R/2019/043 · May 3, 2019 · built Jul 2018 to Aug 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: An internal sensor within the electric power steering unit might not have been manufactured according to specifications.

Fix: The affected vehicles are to have the steering unit replaced.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe status of the front passenger airbags displayed in the centre console might not be indicated correctly Recall R/2019/007 · Mar 8, 2019 · built Aug 2017 to Oct 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: The status of the front passenger airbags displayed in the centre console might not be indicated correctly.

Fix: The affected vehicles head unit software will be updated

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSATo improve emissions of the affected vehicles.certain calibrations of functionalities must be changed in the engine management Recall R/2018/266 · Oct 19, 2018 · built Dec 2013 to May 2018 · Risk and fix

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

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSADriver's airbag gas generator housing failure during deployment Recall R/2018/168 · Aug 14, 2018 · built Jan 2018 to Mar 2018 · Risk and fix

Risk: On affected vehicles it has been determined that drivers airbags with potentially faulty gas generator housing material may have been installed in vehicles of model series 156 176 246 205 238 & 253. If the material of the gas generator housing fails during airbag deployment in the event of a crash the airbag system would possibly no longer have a restraint effect. In addition separating parts could enter the passenger compartment. This could lead to an increased risk of injury.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the driver's airbag

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAElectrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded Recall R/2018/130 · Jun 11, 2018 · built Nov 2011 to Jul 2017 · Risk and fix

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

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAAirbag control unit connection may not be manufactured to specificationYears estimated Recall R/2018/121 · Jun 1, 2018 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSASteering components may be insufficiently grounded Recall R/2018/098 · May 11, 2018 · built Nov 2011 to Jul 2017 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAElectrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded Recall R/2018/055 · Apr 9, 2018 · built Nov 2011 to Jul 2017 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAElectrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded Recall R/2018/069 · Apr 9, 2018 · built Nov 2011 to Jul 2017 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSABonding of the windshield may be inadequateYears estimated Recall R/2018/046 · Feb 21, 2018 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAElectrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded Recall R/2017/282 · Dec 18, 2017 · built Nov 2011 to Jul 2017 · Risk and fix

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.

Check on GOV.UK

EU Safety GateThe vacuum-controlled coolant pump may not be tightly sealed between the coolant and vacuum circuits.This may result in the coolant leaking into the vacuum circuit leading to an electrochemical reaction, increasing the risk of fire. Alert A12/00045/22 · reported by Germany · Jan 14, 2022 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

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. Alert A12/00017/22 · reported by Germany · Jan 7, 2022 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe belt tensioner arm may have been manufactured with a borderline tolerance, which could cause one side of the V-ribbed belt to rub…The belt tensioner arm may have been manufactured with a borderline tolerance, which could cause one side of the V-ribbed belt to rub against the belt tensioner, causing it to fail. As a result, the coolant pump may stop working, causing the engine to overheat, thus compromising the impermeability of the oil sump. Consequently, oil may leak onto the road, posing a risk to the following traffic. Alert A12/01532/21 · reported by Germany · Nov 12, 2021 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

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. Alert A12/00730/21 · reported by Germany · May 28, 2021 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

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. Alert A12/00669/21 · reported by Germany · May 21, 2021 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateDue to defective screw connection, the positive 12V battery cable may come into contact with the starter and be damaged by its movement.Consequently, the damaged positive cable might be in contact with the starter housing, which could lead to a short circuit. As a result, the battery may become discharged in a short period of time, and an intermediary electrical component might be overloaded, leading to immobilisation of the vehicle and to increased the risk of fire. Alert A12/00338/21 · reported by Germany · Mar 12, 2021 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateDue to the lack of documentation, there is no confirmation that the screw connections of the turbocharger’s oil-supply and oil-return…Due to the lack of documentation, there is no confirmation that the screw connections of the turbocharger’s oil-supply and oil-return pipes were correctly executed during the assembly process. In the event of a loose screw connection, oil might leak at the oil-supply and/or oil-return pipe of the turbocharger.The leaking oil might then come into contact with hot components, increasing the risk of fire. Alert A12/01336/20 · reported by Germany · Oct 9, 2020 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe fixing screw connecting the base holder of the manual control device may not be correctly fitted.This can impair the control over the vehicle, increasing the risk of an accident. Alert A12/1794/19 · reported by Germany · Nov 29, 2019 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe bolts which connect the cross-member of the trailer coupling device (towbar) to the vehicle may not have been tightened with the…The bolts which connect the cross-member of the trailer coupling device (towbar) to the vehicle may not have been tightened with the correct torque. As a result, the cross-member and the trailer could be completely detached from the vehicle, endangering the following traffic and increasing the risk of an accident. Alert A12/1554/19 · reported by Germany · Oct 25, 2019 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe sleep mode functionality of the electronic parking brake within the electronic stability programme (ESP) software may be defective.As a result, the brake lights may be permanently activated or the ESP function could be deactivated, increasing the risk of an accident. Alert A12/0685/19 · reported by Germany · May 3, 2019 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateA defective sensor installed within the electrical power steering system may lead to deactivation of the power steering assistance.As a consequence, there is an increased risk of accidents. Alert A12/0220/19 · reported by Germany · Feb 8, 2019 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateIn vehicles with automatic child-seat detection, the status shown in the centre console of the passenger airbags may not be correctly…In vehicles with automatic child-seat detection, the status shown in the centre console of the passenger airbags may not be correctly indicated. In this case, the vehicle users would not be correctly informed of the actual activation status of the passenger airbag and may not react appropriately to a potentially false passenger classification, thereby increasing the risk of injury for passengers in the event of an accident. Alert A12/0163/19 · reported by Germany · Feb 1, 2019 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe casing material of the gas generator of the driver airbag may be defective.In the event that the airbag is deployed, the airbag may not protect the driver and detached parts might enter the passenger compartment causing injury to the vehicle occupants. Alert A12/0852/18 · reported by Germany · Jun 29, 2018 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

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. Alert A12/1733/17 · reported by Germany · Dec 8, 2017 · Measures

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

View on EU Safety Gate

How often does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class fail its MOT?

12.0% of 19,431 MOT tests in 2023 on Mercedes-Benz GLC-Classs first registered in 2018 were a fail3.8 points better than the average car of the same age
  1. Tyres43%
  2. Suspension20%
  3. Brakes14%
  4. Visibility (windscreen, wipers, mirrors)10%
  5. Exhaust, emissions and leaks10%
  6. Lights and electrics9%

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 2018, 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 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class owners report?

12 of the 99 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.

Error code P052E71 on a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC means the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Regulator Valve Performance has a malfunction, specifically that the partial-load ventilation valve actuator is blocked. By research, i found that this is a very common problem on those engines, and no recalls from the company to fix their fault.
EngineNHTSA complaint 11753763 · Jul 30, 2026
Component Failure: The vehicle is equipped with the M274 2.0L turbocharged engine, which suffered a major internal mechanical defect. An authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership diagnosed the vehicle at 79,504 miles with a malfunction in the crankcase ventilation system alongside severe internal defects, quoting a total repair estimate of $9,851 to perform extensive engine work. Safety Risk: This known manufacturing defect involves premature failure and cracking of the pistons, which poses an immediate safety hazard due to potential catastrophic engine failure and sudden, complete loss of motor…
Power Train, EngineNHTSA complaint 11741952 · Jun 3, 2026
Safety Issue: Infotainment display screen produces scrambled pixels during Apple CarPlay navigation while driving. Description: When Apple CarPlay is connected and navigation is in use, the vehicle's infotainment display screen suddenly produces scrambled pixels, rendering the map and display unreadable. This malfunction occurs without warning while the vehicle is in motion, creating a dangerous visual distraction for the driver and uncertainty of where and when to turn or exit. This is a known, recurring issue. On January 7, 2021, I brought this problem to Mercedes-Benz of Indianapolis…
Electrical System, Unknown Or OtherNHTSA complaint 11732752 · Apr 21, 2026
While driving on interstate 4 in Florida with our grandchildren going approximately 70 mph the sunroof on our 2018 Mercedes GLC just exploded no object came into the vehicle and while glass came into the vehiclenot all the glass that made up the sunroof came into vehicle suggesting a pressure issue as apparently blew out
StructureNHTSA complaint 11723228 · Mar 10, 2026
The contact's friend owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300. The contact stated that while the owner was driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended, and the gear shifter independently shifted to neutral(N). No warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the failure was persistent. The contact stated that the owner forced the gear shifter out of neutral(N). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission control unit had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle…
Power TrainNHTSA complaint 11708077 · Dec 31, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the message "Front Air Bag Malfunction" was displayed, and the horn became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the steering column and air bag clock spring were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V627000 (AIR BAGS). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall…
Air BagsNHTSA complaint 11698503 · Nov 10, 2025
I had the engine light come on and took it to the dealership. They quoted me over 8 thousand dollars to fix. I took it to a repair shop that works on luxury cars and they fixed it for less than 1000 dollars. I had to have the transducer fixed in the turbo in my engine and when they did that they found oil in the electrical harness. That was caused by the oil seperator. They told me that it was a manufacture defect that has been well documented and to take it back to Mercedees Benz. They looked and found the oil but said my car did not produce a code and could not fix it. We escalated it to…
Electrical System, EngineNHTSA complaint 11698021 · Nov 6, 2025
Malfunction and engine light is on. Found p052e present. Recommended replacement of crankcase breather assembly
Electrical System, EngineNHTSA complaint 11669031 · Jun 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that when the driver's side seat belt was buckled, the seat belt alarm chimed as if the seat belt was not buckled. The contact had to buckle and unbuckle the seat belt several times before the warning chime stopped. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that there was no issue with the seat belt system. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V788000…
Seat BeltsNHTSA complaint 11590569 · May 24, 2024
Car failed to accelerate due to faulty fuel pump, fuel tank, etc. Car stopped and died several times in the middle of heavy traffic. Mercedes Benz of West Houston, Sewell Dealership, has my car that was towed to them late afternoon on 3/5/2024. I have owned a Mercedes for over 40 years and never had this occur or be scared due to the car’s lack of performance.
Engine, Fuel/Propulsion SystemNHTSA complaint 11576098 · Mar 7, 2024
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Panoramic stationary sunroof between the windshield and sunroof glass panel disbonded while vehicle was in operation and almost caused an accident on the highway. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Exterior panel disbonded while in operation and almost hit vehicles behind and could have caused an accident. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes diagnosis from the dealership that panel was coming…
StructureNHTSA complaint 11560511 · Dec 17, 2023
WHEN I WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT AT A LOW SPEED, THE CAR ACCELERATED AND LURCHED FORWARD, HITTING A WALL, WHICH DEPLOYED THE AIRBAGS. WHEN THE CAR STARTED TO ACCELERATE, I HIT THE BRAKES BUT THEY DID NOT ENGAGE.
Electrical System, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Service BrakesCrashNHTSA complaint 11349114 · Aug 13, 2020

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2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class: questions owners ask

Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class reliable?

NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 99 complaints with NHTSA about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class; the most common categories were engine (32, 32.3%), electrical system (15, 15.2%), structure (11, 11.1%). There are no safety recalls listed for this model year. 5 complaints mention a crash, 1 mentions a fire, 4 injuries were reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

Across 99 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are engine (32.3% of complaints), electrical system (15.2% of complaints), structure (11.1% of complaints), power train (10.1% of complaints), fuel/propulsion system (8.1% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.

Does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class have any recalls?

As of October 2026, NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2018 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 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

15 of the 99 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (15.2%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "Vehicle showing check engine light, connected a reader to the vehicle and it shows a code of P052E .. ( Positive Crankcase Ventilation Regulator)" (NHTSA complaint 11580186, March 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 is the airbag light on in my 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

6 of the 99 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (6.1%) describe airbag warning lights or airbag faults. One owner wrote: "All of the buttons on my steering wheel including the horn stopped working. I hear a clicking noise when i turn the steering wheel and the passenger air bag light randomly goes on and off. This leads me to believe the clock spring is broken." (NHTSA complaint 11535378, July 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 does the seat belt not latch or retract properly in my 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

6 of the 99 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (6.1%) describe seat belts not latching, retracting or locking. One owner wrote: "Rear seat belt latch plates (both driver and passenger side) retracted into the rear side paneling behind the seat. Both seat belts are now unusable. Issue occurred after rear seats were folded flat and then returned to upright position." (NHTSA complaint 11568507, January 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.

Can the sunroof on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class shatter or fail?

5 of the 99 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (5.1%) describe the sunroof or panoramic roof shattering, exploding or failing. One owner wrote: "While driving on interstate 4 in Florida with our grandchildren going approximately 70 mph the sunroof on our 2018 Mercedes GLC just exploded no object came into the vehicle and while glass came into the vehiclenot all the glass that made up the sunroof came…" (NHTSA complaint 11723228, March 2026). 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 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class stall, lose power or shut off while driving?

4 of the 99 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (4%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "Hi, Improper gear shifting. Vehicle engine light comes on with Error Code P073E, "reverse gear cannot be engaged" Vehicle would shift gear back into neutral position when put to Drive." (NHTSA complaint 11520254, May 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.

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 2018 only; combines NHTSA's entries for GLC-CLASS, GLC-CLASS COUPE and GLC-CLASS PHEV.

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