The Mercedes-Benz GLC is a luxury compact SUV that was introduced in 2016.
It is the successor to the GLK and is known for its refinement and style.
In this article, we’ll be analyzing all of the best and worst model years of the GLC.
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Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Mercedes-Benz GLC Are:
The best Mercedes-Benz GLC model years are 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019. The worst model years of this model are 2016, 2017, and 2018. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Mercedes-Benz GLC?
2024 and 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC
The 2024 and 2023 GLC model years are the first entries of the 2nd generation.
Fully redesigned, improved steering, excellent ride quality, and better performance thanks to the all-new mild hybrid powertrain – these models are top picks.
The mild hybrid powertrain is a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine that provides 255 horsepower and is mated to a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission.
While Mercedes only offers these models in 1 main trim, there are 3 sub-trims to consider: Base, Exclusive, and Pinnacle.
Each trim offers increasingly more standard features. The Base price begins at around $48,000.
2023 GLC:
- Edmunds: NA
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 80 / 100
2023 GLC, Edmunds review:
“I waited 12 weeks from the date of order to pick up my new 2023 GLC, and it was definitely worth the wait! I selected the Exclusive trim, Driver Assistance and AMG Line packages with several add-ons, and I could not be happier…”
2022, 2021, and 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC
The 2022, 2021, and 2020 GLC model years are great choices if you’re looking for the most reliable and modern iterations of the first generation.
They provide a great balance of comfort, fuel economy and performance, making them excellent daily drivers.
The seating is roomy (despite being a small SUV), the interior is handsome and hushed and they are surprisingly quick.
Introduced for 2020, the GLC received a more powerful 4-cylinder engine (14 more horsepower) and the patented MBUX infotainment system.
The GLC 350e plug-in received a larger battery in 2020 and more electric range although was discontinued for the 2021 model year, the V8 models were dropped in 2022.
Apart from that, there are no major differences between these models and you can’t go far wrong with either of them.
Owners have praised the following aspects: engine, handling, steering, ride quality, safety, infotainment system, value, and driving experience.
As you would expect from a Mercedes, these models are equipped with premium features, including Parktronic with Active Parking Assist, Pre-Safe Brake with Pedestrian Detection, and Attention Assist.
2022 GLC:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.9 / 5.0
- JD Power: 80 / 100
2021 GLC:
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.9 / 5.0
- JD Power: 79 / 100
2020 GLC:
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.9 / 5.0
- JD Power: 79 / 100
2020 GLC, Edmunds review:
“Wasn’t really looking to buy, but in checking out and testing the new 2020 GLC 300 recently, I was taken aback by the luxury and performance this vehicle provided. Perfect size/fit, very agile/nimble and its look and styling is the best on the market.”
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC
The 2019 GLC is a great choice and shouldn’t be overlooked – it’s reliable, practical, and is sold at a reasonable price on the used market.
The GLC300 is equipped with a 241-hp 2.0-liter four mated to a paddle-shifted nine-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is optional.
If a plug-in hybrid appeals to you, the GLC350e keeps the turbo four-cylinder and adds an 85kW electric motor for a total of 320 hp.
Features that are new for this model year are heated front seats and a household power outlet (as standard features), as well as newly introduced Off-Road Engineering and Tri-Zone Climate Control add-ons.
Auto critics have praised the comfort, interior, and utility of this vehicle.
According to owners the best qualities of this model are: interior, comfort, fuel efficiency, infotainment system, appearance, value, reliability, and manufacturing quality.
- Edmunds: 3.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.9 / 5.0
- JD Power: 78 / 100
2019 GLC, Edmunds review:
“There is little to not like about this SUV. Exterior design is much more beautiful than that of most other SUVs. There are no sharp edges and yet it has a bold look to it. Interior definitely looks and feels luxurious. The center console has a clean, minimalist look. It is not overloaded with buttons. It is worthwhile to upgrade the command console with an 8″ screen…”
Consumer Scores For Best Mercedes-Benz GLC Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC | NA | NA | NA |
| 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC | NA | 4.7 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 4.4 / 5.0 | 3.9 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 4.2 / 5.0 | 3.9 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 |
| 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 4.1 / 5.0 | 3.9 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 |
| 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 3.7 / 5.0 | 3.9 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
Related: 6 Most Common Mercedes-Benz GLC Problems (Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Mercedes-Benz GLC?
2016, 2017 and 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC
The 2016, 2017 and 2018 GLC models are the most problematic model years produced based on auto industry data. This shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise though as they were the first model years produced.
According to data from the NHTSA, the most common complaints were engine-related, many of which were due to a faulty positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve – a simple system that introduces filtered fresh air into the crankcase.
Note: the 2018 GLC suffered from PCV valve issues albeit with significantly fewer cases reported.
Outside of warranty owners have reported repair costs in excess of $1500.
Here is what the owners had to say:
“Got the MIL obd2 error code P052E – Positive Crankcase Ventilation Regulator Valve Performance. After some research this seems to be a common issue for this vehicle and other similar Mercedes-Benz vehicles with the same engine. It is something that it is extremely expensive to fix ($2000) and very labor intensive.”
“There are lots of 2017 GLC 300 that has been having issues with PCV system that are malfunctioning that could cause engine failure. Customers are forced to spend $2000 plus to have this fixed rather than Mercedes owning its problem and fixing it. For your reference please check glcforum.com where glc owners are ranting about their issues with PCV systems.”
“Got a Check Engine Light at 32,400 miles and the code said it was the Positive Crankcase Ventilation Regulatory Valve. It was under warranty, the job requires over 6 hours of labor, and it’s due to a intake breather valve getting gummed up with oil/oil vapors/condensation. Well, the check engine light came on again at 58,000 miles and 3 years later. Now not under warranty, the dealer quoted 6 hours and $1435 to do the same repair that was done before.”
Another common complaint was related to noisy brakes.
Here is what owners had to say on the nhtsa.gov website:
“Continuous problem with brakes squealing very loud. Have had brake pads replaced and taken to dealerships 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”
“Breaks are very loud at low temperatures. Very squeaky like metal on metal yet the brakes are like new from Mercedes dealership.”
“Brakes screech loudly when in reverse causing noise disturbance and concern about possible safety issue. this has been an on-going problem for several months and is getting progressively worse.”
- The 2016 GLC had a total of 7 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 115 problems based on NHTSA data.
- The 2017 GLC had a total of 6 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 79 problems based on NHTSA data.
- The 2018 GLC had a total of 4 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 56 problems based on NHTSA data.
Common problems:
- Steering wheel vibration
- PCV valve failure
- Squealing brakes
- Piston cracked
- Engine sputtering and revving
- Premature tire wear
- Noisy windshield wipers
- No UV protection on windows
- Fuel door fell off
Related: How Long Do Mercedes GLC Last? (Solved & Explained)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (NHTSA.gov) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC | – | – | – |
| 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 0 | 17 | 0 |
| 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 0 | 17 | 0 |
| 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 0 | 18 | 0 |
| 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 2 | 31 | 14 |
| 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 4 | 30 | 10 |
| 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 4 | 56 | 14 |
| 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 6 | 79 | 11 |
| 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC | 7 | 115 | 11 |
What Problems Do Mercedes-Benz GLCs Have?
- Engine sputtering and revving
- Steering wheel vibration
- No UV protection on windows
- Fuel door fell off
- Engine sputtering and revving
- Premature tire wear
- Noisy windshield wipers
- Squealing brakes
- Piston cracked
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Mercedes-Benz GLC?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Genesis GV70 | 8.8 | $43,150 – $55,250 | City: 19 – 22 /Highway: 24 – 28 |
| BMW X3 | 8.6 | $46,200 – $61,000 | City: 21 – 23 /Highway: 26 – 29 |
| Maserati Grecale | 8.3 | $63,500 – $102,500 | City: 18 – 22 /Highway: 25 – 29 |
| Acura RDX | 8.2 | $41,350 – $53,350 | City: 21 – 22 /Highway: 26 – 28 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLB | 8.2 | $39,800 – $51,500 | City: 21 – 24 /Highway: 27 – 32 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLC | 8.2 | $47,100 – $68,200 | City: 17 – 25 /Highway: 24 – 32 |
| Audi Q5 | 8.1 | $44,200 – $57,400 | Electric: 61 /Gas: 25 |
| Lincoln Corsair | 8.1 | $38,690 – $53,885 | City: 21 – 22 /Highway: 28 – 30 |
| Volvo XC60 | 8.1 | $43,450 – $74,150 | Electric: 63 /Gas: 23 – 28 |
| Jaguar F-Pace | 8.0 | $52,400 – $89,500 | City: 15 – 22 /Highway: 21 – 27 |
| Porsche Macan | 7.9 | $57,500 – $82,900 | City: 17 – 19 /Highway: 22 – 25 |
| BMW X4 | 7.8 | $54,200 – $65,400 | City: 21 /Highway: 26 – 28 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 6 Best & Worst Mercedes GLK 350 Years (Facts & Stats)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/mercedes-benz/glc-class
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/mercedes-benz/glc-class
https://www.edmunds.com/mercedes-benz/glc-class/
https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/glc/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/mercedes-benz/glc
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Mercedes-Benz/GLC300/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/tsb/mercedes-benz/glc/
https://www.cars.com/research/mercedes_benz-glc_300/recalls/
