Problem Lookup › Mercedes-Benz › GLC-Class › 2021
Car problem report
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2021 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.
- 7safety recalls
- 75owner complaints
- 2crash reports
- 2fire reports
- 6%fail the UK MOT
75 complaints, against an average of 72 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
The components named most often in the 75 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 75 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?17 owners · 22.7%
- Why does my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class stall, lose power or shut off while driving?14 owners · 18.7% · Recall 23V445000
- Why do the headlights or taillights fail on my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?14 owners · 18.7% · Recall 24V070000
- Why does my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class idle rough, misfire or hesitate?12 owners · 16%
- Has the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class had engine failures?3 owners · 4%
- Can the sunroof on the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class shatter or fail?3 owners · 4%
- Does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class have rust or paint problems?3 owners · 4%
- Have any 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class vehicles caught fire?3 owners · 4%
Has the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class been recalled?
7 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
Exterior Lighting: Headlights Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 GLC 300, 2020 GLC 350e, and 2020-2022 AMG GLC 43 vehicles. The headlights may be incorrectly adjusted too high and create a glare for oncoming traffic. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: Incorrectly aimed headlights can reduce the visibility of oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the headlight adjustment and correct it if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 23, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery: Fuel Pump Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2023 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS, SL, GT, GLC, GLE, GLS, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The fuel pump may shutdown, which can result in a loss of drive power.
Risk: A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 14, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2023070012.
Electrical System: SoftwareOver-the-air fix Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.
Risk: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.
Exterior Lighting: Headlights Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 GLC 300, GLC 300 4Matic, AMG GLC 63 4Matic, AMG GLC 63 S 4Matic, and AMG GLC 43 4Matic vehicles. The electrical connection for the headlights may not be watertight, which can result in headlight failure.
Risk: Headlight failure can decrease visibility for both the driver and surrounding traffic, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the headlight sealing plugs, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 3, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022050005.
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: CameraOver-the-air fix Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, and AMG GT-Class 4-door Coupe vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: A backup camera that displays a blank image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: The multimedia system software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 28, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6373. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021050012.
Seats Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLC, CLS, AMG GT 4-door Coupe and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. A faulty electrical contact within the seat position switch may prevent the driver and passenger air bags and seat belt force limiters from properly activating during a crash.
Risk: Air bags and seat belts that do not perform properly in a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seat position switches, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed May 21, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021040016.
Electrical System: SoftwareOver-the-air fix Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.
Risk: Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.
Fix: MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.
Is the 2021 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 DVSASRPC2501 - Processor Starter/GeneratorProcessor Starter/Generator
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
UK DVSASRPC2419 Misfire Detection M264
Risk: The software of the engine control unit might not meet specifications regarding misfire detection.
Fix: Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will update the software of the engine control unit on the affected vehicles.
UK DVSAOn affected vehicles the fuel pump impeller might not meet specifications and may deform.
Risk: On affected vehicles the fuel pump impeller might not meet specifications and may deform.
Fix: Replace the fuel pump module.
UK DVSAThe routing of the transmission wiring harness might not meet specifications
Risk: The routing of the transmission wiring harness might not meet specifications.
Fix: Check the transmission wiring harness routing on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.
UK DVSACertain mode 2 charging cables for charging at a hiousehold power socket might not meet specifications
Risk: Certain Mode 2 charging cables for charging at a household power socket might not meet specifications.
Fix: Check the Mode 2 charging cable on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.
UK DVSACoolant pump might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit
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.
UK DVSAThe crankshaft might not meet specifications
Risk: On certain vehicles with a 4-cylinder Diesel engine the crankshaft might not meet specifications.
Fix: Replace the engine on the affected vehicles.
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 DVSAThe belt tensioner arm may have been manufactured with borderline tolerance
Risk: The belt tensioner arm may have been manufactured with borderline tolerance.
Fix: Replace the belt tensioner. Additionally check the v-ribbed belt on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.
UK DVSAThe locking mechanism for the electrical connector of the side crash sensors might not meet specifications
Risk: The locking mechanism for the electrical connector of the side crash sensors might not meet specifications.
Fix: Check the side crash sensors in the doors on the affected vehicles and replace them if necessary.
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.
EU Safety GateThe front towing eye bolt/screw may detach, 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 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.
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 GateDue to an incorrect material composition of the Mode 2 charging cable for charging at a household power socket, the insulation resistance…Due to an incorrect material composition of the Mode 2 charging cable for charging at a household power socket, the insulation resistance of the rubber buffer could be impaired, overriding the protective function of the charging cable. Furthermore, in combination with an error in the householdinfrastructure, the activation of the protective device in the household electrical circuit might be prevented. This could cause the user to have an electrical shock and could lead 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: 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 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.
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 electrical connector of the side-impact sensors might not be correctly latched and could become detached.This would lead to delayed activation of the restraint systems in the event of a side impact, reducing their restraining effect and increasing the risk of injury to the vehicle occupants.
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
How often does the 2021 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 2021, 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class owners report?
12 of the 75 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.
I own a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300. The vehicle developed moisture/condensation in the headlamp, and the affected headlamp subsequently failed. I took the vehicle to RBM of Alpharetta, an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership. I was advised that corrosion was found in the affected headlamp and that the headlamp assembly requires replacement. On September 8, 2026, the dealership provided a repair estimate of 3,387.33. The vehicle had approximately 84,769 miles. Mercedes-Benz previously issued NHTSA Recall 22V-261 / Campaign 2022050005 for certain 2021 GLC-Class vehicles because headlamp…
My vehicle is experiencing moisture intrusion caused by a defective headlight housing seal. The water intrusion has resulted in a short circuit and failure of the turn signal module within the headlamp assembly. I am aware of NHTSA Safety Recall 22V-261, which addresses a substantially similar defect involving inadequate watertight sealing of the headlamp assembly that can allow moisture intrusion and lead to headlamp electrical failure. My vehicle is experiencing the same type of moisture intrusion and resulting electrical failure described in that recall. Because this failure appears…
My 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is not currently included in NHTSA Recall 22V-261 / Mercedes-Benz Campaign 2022050005, but my vehicle is experiencing substantially the same defect described in that recall. Moisture/water entered the left headlamp assembly/electrical connection, resulting in condensation/water accumulation and damage/corrosion around the headlamp electrical module/connector. The headlamp system subsequently malfunctioned. Recall 22V-261 describes a condition where the headlamp electrical connection may not be watertight, allowing moisture ingress and potentially causing headlamp…
The vehicle is experiencing an intermittent, sudden, and life-threatening drop into "limp home mode" while driving, creating an severe speed differential with surrounding traffic.First Incident (50,584 miles): The vehicle entered limp mode. Authorized Mercedes service center scanned the car, confirming Fault Code P019185 (Rail pressure sensor malfunction / signal above permissible limit value). The dealer applied an Engine Control Module software patch under Mercedes TSB LI07.70-P-078047.Second Incident (53,695 miles): Less than 3,000 miles later, the exact same sudden powertrain failure…
Moisture began collecting inside the left headlight assembly, even though the housing should be sealed. Over time, the condensation increased and the front left turn signal failed. The vehicle displayed warning messages for the turn signal, low beams, Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, and Active Brake Assist. The failed turn signal reduces the vehicle's visibility to other drivers and creates a potential safety hazard. A similar moisture intrusion issue was the subject of NHTSA Recall 22V-261 for certain 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC vehicles, but this vehicle was not included in that recall…
The engine-driven vacuum pump and turbocharger boost-control vacuum system malfunctioned. The vehicle developed insufficient vacuum to the boost-control system, resulting in a P0299 turbocharger underboost fault and reduced engine power. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The vehicle experienced a noticeable loss of peak power and reduced acceleration. Although it did not enter limp mode, unexpected reduced acceleration could create a safety risk while merging onto a highway, passing another vehicle, entering or crossing traffic, or attempting to avoid a collision. An…
At just 30,000 miles — less than half the mileage at which these failures are typically reported — my GLC 43 was found to have active oil leaks in multiple locations: 1. Front engine covers — oil is seeping from both the front cover gasket area and migrating downward along the engine block. The dealer recommends a full reseal of the front covers at a quoted cost of $1,944. 2. Radial shaft sealing ring of the front axle gear — is actively seeping gear oil, with a quoted repair cost of $1,718. My concern is not limited to cost. Oil migrating from the front cover area toward the lower engine…
The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that the rear-view camera was not functioning properly. After restarting the vehicle, the camera operated as needed; however, several days later, the camera became inoperable. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V354000 (Back Over Prevention, Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 96,000.
The vehicle lost power and will not operate over 40 mph/2000 rpms
High beam can't auto dim Fuel pump fail to operate, misfires, and shut down while driving
Vehicle will flash warnings on dash the the blind spot assist in inoperative and the front passenger air bag malfunction. The active brake assist is also malfunctioning as the two white cars colliding is on. The dealership as tried to fix this issue 5 times and has tried argue the the active brake assist is functioning normal.
Sunroof glass panel exploded outward. Fabric retractable interior sunroof liner did contain all of the fragmented safety glass. No prior impact on or to the sunroof. If the interior fabric sunroof liner had been retracted, the interior of the vehicle would have been showered with the glass shards impacting the driver and all passengers. There was no warning. A loud sound similar to gunshot occurred as the sunroof failed. The vehicle was driven to a local windshield repair facility for examination. I contacted and notified Mercedes Benz USA of the incident. They have not done a follow-up as of…
Mercedes-Benz guides on CarHooq
- Upcoming SUV Mercedes-Benz GLC-300 2023Guide · 12 min read
- Mercedes Regenerative Braking - How It WorksGuide · 11 min read
- Mercedes Brake Dust Problem - How to Remove Brake Dust from the Inside Wheel and Between Wheel NutsGuide · 13 min read
- Mercedes Sprinter Cabin Air Filter ReplacementGuide · 14 min read
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class: questions owners ask
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 75 complaints with NHTSA about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class; the most common categories were engine (33, 44%), exterior lighting (14, 18.7%), electrical system (10, 13.3%). There are 7 safety recalls. 2 complaints mention a crash, 2 mention a fire, 1 injury was reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
Across 75 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are engine (44% of complaints), exterior lighting (18.7% of complaints), electrical system (13.3% of complaints), fuel/propulsion system (13.3% of complaints), power train (8% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 7 recalls for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class; the most recent (campaign 24V070000, 2024-02-02) concerns Exterior Lighting: Headlights. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
17 of the 75 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (22.7%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "While driving in my neighborhood at 25 MPH, my Mercedes GLC300 suddenly lost power and the check engine light illuminated." (NHTSA complaint 11739133, May 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
14 of the 75 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (18.7%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. A related recall exists: campaign 23V445000 (fuel system, gasoline: delivery: fuel pump). The fix: Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. One owner wrote: "While driving in my neighborhood at 25 MPH, my Mercedes GLC300 suddenly lost power and the check engine light illuminated." (NHTSA complaint 11739133, May 2026). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why do the headlights or taillights fail on my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?
14 of the 75 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (18.7%) describe headlights, taillights or brake lights failing or condensation in the lamps. 2 related recalls exist: campaign 24V070000 (exterior lighting: headlights). The fix: Dealers will inspect the headlight adjustment and correct it if necessary, free of charge. One owner wrote: "Moisture began collecting inside the left headlight assembly, even though the housing should be sealed. Over time, the condensation increased and the front left turn signal failed." (NHTSA complaint 11754832, August 2026). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why does my 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class idle rough, misfire or hesitate?
12 of the 75 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (16%) describe rough idling, misfires or hesitation when accelerating. One owner wrote: "Car has experienced rough idling, sluggish to no acceleration, check engine light illuminates and no shifting of gears regardless of speed. It appears to be going into limp mode. This has occurred monthly for the last four months." (NHTSA complaint 11695359, October 2025). 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class had engine failures?
3 of the 75 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (4%) describe complete engine failure or a replaced engine. One owner wrote: "While I was driving on the Garden State Parkway, my vehicle experienced a sudden loss of power and persistent misfires and my check engine light came on." (NHTSA complaint 11707845, December 2025). 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class shatter or fail?
3 of the 75 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (4%) describe the sunroof or panoramic roof shattering, exploding or failing. One owner wrote: "My sunroof exploded while I was driving on the highway. There were no other cars around me and no overpasses. There is no explanation for the sunroof breaking. I thought someone shot out my window. It was the scariest experience I have ever had driving." (NHTSA complaint 11502302, January 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.
Does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class have rust or paint problems?
3 of the 75 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (4%) describe rust, corrosion or peeling paint. One owner wrote: "I own a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300. The vehicle developed moisture/condensation in the headlamp, and the affected headlamp subsequently failed. I took the vehicle to RBM of Alpharetta, an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership." (NHTSA complaint 11763616, September 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.
Have any 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class vehicles caught fire?
3 of the 75 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class (4%) describe the car catching fire or melting wiring. One owner wrote: "Driving short distance home when the bottom of Mercedes GLC 300 caught fire without warning or notification. I was unaware when a good Samaritan screamed out your car is on fire. Pulled over and she helped me out." (NHTSA complaint 11631534, December 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.
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 2021 only; combines NHTSA's entries for AMG GLC43, AMG GLC63, GLC and GLC-CLASS COUPE.