Summary
The Mercedes-Benz GLC Class has 25 recalls spanning 2011 through 2024, with the most serious recent issue being a 2024 software fault on certain hybrid AMG models where the high-voltage starter generator can shut off unexpectedly, causing a sudden loss of drive power. The 2023 model year carries two safety-critical issues: an improperly tightened lower steering shaft bolt that can work loose and cause complete loss of steering control, and an 80-amp fuse that can overheat and fail, cutting power to the wheels and potentially starting a fire. There is also a 2023 tow hook thread issue where the recovery eye can come loose during vehicle transport or loading.
The 2021 model year has a fuel delivery module that can fail and cause rough running or a sudden loss of engine power while driving, along with a potential gap in the under-hood fire suppression system that may not function properly after a crash, and headlamp connectors that can allow moisture in and cause the lamp to fail. On 2020 models, the transmission wiring harness can contact the front driveshaft and wear through, cutting power to the wheels; a separate issue affects the electronic rear seat backrest lock, which can give way in a crash and let the backrest fold forward onto occupants. The 2020 model year also had headlamps that left the factory with incorrect aim.
On 2019 models, particles in the fuel system can damage injector seals and cause a fuel leak in the engine compartment, and one 2019 vehicle has a crankshaft surface defect that can cause sudden engine failure under hard use. The 2018 model year has a starter power cable that can contact the starter housing, creating a short circuit risk and potential fire, a passenger airbag control unit on AMG GLC 63 S models that may delay front airbag deployment in a crash, and a dashboard display on vehicles with the Audio 20 head unit that can show the wrong airbag status, potentially leaving a child seated in front of an active airbag.
Going back to 2017, panoramic sunroof panels can separate from the vehicle if not properly bonded, creating a hazard for surrounding traffic, and front seat belt pretensioners on some 2017 models may not fire correctly in a crash. The 2016 model year has a wiring harness behind the steering column that can chafe against the column adjustment mechanism and disable turn signals, the gear selector, electric power steering, or stability control. Rear outboard seatbelt latch plates on 2016 models can slip behind interior trim panels and become difficult to reach, reducing the chance a passenger buckles up. A 2015 model year starting current limiter can be overloaded during repeated start attempts if the starter is blocked. The sole 2011 recall affects vehicles registered in Atlantic Canada and Quebec, where road salt can corrode the bolts holding the electric power steering motor to the steering gear, eventually causing loss of power steering assist.
