The Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 is a luxury compact SUV that debuted as a 2010 model year.
It is known for its swanky cabin, powerful V6 engine, and impressive build quality.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the best and worst model years of the GLK 350.
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Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 Are:
The best Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 model years are 2015, 2014, and 2011. The worst model years of the GLK 350 are 2010, 2012, and 2013. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Mercedes-Benz GLK 350?
2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 is the last model year ever produced, it is also our top-pick recommendation. It was one of the most sophisticated luxury compact SUVs of its time.
This model year received a facelift, a revamped interior and additional power for the V6 engine.
It comes with an abundance of tech and safety features and offers a sophisticated ride.
The base-level GLK 350 comes with a rear-wheel-drive system paired with a 7-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
On the other hand, the GLK 350 4Matic has an all-wheel-drive system with the same automatic transmission.
Fuel economy is pretty good for its segment, with estimates indicating 18 to 19 mpg for city driving, 25 mpg for highway driving, and 21 mpg for combined driving.
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2015 GLK 350, Edmunds review:
“After 5 volvos between the 2 of us, and a Land Rover, VW and Honda in between and with Volvo’s reluctance to negotiate their high leases, the MB 2015 GLK AWD was not only refreshing but the most luxurious riding vehicle we have owned to date! Edmunds is right, this car is solid, over 4,000 pounds in weight, holds the road and with an an engine you cannot hear. The acceleration has no turbo lag and we are spoiled with the quiet, smooth ride and the engine’s effortless changing of gears we cannot hear or feel it…”
2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350
The 2014 GLK 350 is another solid option boasting excellent reviews from owners and auto critics alike.
This model remains unchanged from its direct predecessor (2013 model year) but is significantly better as it dealt with some of the recurring problems and issues that owners faced.
This model has numerous safety features, a luxurious cabin, and precision handling.
It can comfortably seat 5 full-sized adults but admittedly, there are roomier options in the market.
This luxury compact SUV is powered by a V6 engine with 302 horsepower and 273 pound-foot of torque.
For those looking for variety, this model offers great exterior and interior paint options, with a total of 12 available body colors and 6 available interior color options.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 85 / 100
2014 GLK 350, Edmunds review:
“Excellent acceleration turning radius and style, the car has no Blindspot and no mechanical problems after 100,000 miles. Excellent ride and good interior features, minor issues. Size perfect for urban life.”
2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350
For those on a slightly tighter budget, we can certainly recommend the 2011 GLK 350.
Aside from the inclusion of driver-side knee airbags and lower front seat airbags, the 2011 GLK 350 is essentially a carryover over of the debut 2010 model, although it is notably less problematic.
It does not do as strongly in terms of fuel economy or cabin space as some of its competitors, but this model makes up for it with a robust, well-built structure and lots of technology.
Notable safety features include stability control, anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, front-seat side airbags, and side curtain airbags.
Optional safety features are the automaker’s patented M-brace emergency telematics and parking sensors.
The 2011 GLK 350 might be slightly dated but it still offers superior materials and unquestionable build quality.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 79 / 100
2011 GLK 350, Edmunds review:
“We have driven it 14,000 miles so far over the past two years-it has been flawless in every way. Feels solid like it was carved out of one piece of steel, handles great and looks terrific. Average about 19mpg in town-highway is a better.”
Consumer Scores For Best Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 |
Related: 6 Most Common Mercedes-Benz GLC Problems (Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Mercedes-Benz GLK 350?
2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350
The 2010 GLK 350 was the debut model year and like many debut model years, it came with its share of teething issues.
According to the statistics obtained from CarProblemZoo.com, a site that tracks NHTSA data, the 2010 GLK 350 is the most problematic model year ever produced out of all 6 iterations.
The leading cause of concern for numerous owners was the airbag system.
The airbags used were made by Takata, and there was a widespread recall as these airbags were known to explode, posing a serious safety risk to the vehicle occupants.
Another common issue with the 2010 GLK 350 was fuel leakage.
Owners noticed the smell of gas coming from their vehicle and this required a fuel pump replacement.
The 2010 GLK 350 had a total of 1 complaint at CarComplaints.com and 246 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Fuel odor when tank is full
- Warped rotors
- Mold in A/C
2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350
The 2012 GLK 350, much like the two other model years on this list, fell victim to the infamous Takata airbag recall which affected millions of vehicles from various brands.
The widespread nature of the issue and the scarcity of available parts required for repair led to massive delays for several owners.
Here’s one disgruntled owners report:
“Takata recall this is taking way too long. Years. The MB dealer has no information on when a remedy is available. In my mind MB is dragging their feet, they should be taken to task.”
The 2012 GLK 350 had a total of 4 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 164 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Bad torque converter
- Thrown connecting rod
- Paint and clear coat coming off
2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350
Owners of the 2013 GLK 350 were severely affected by various airbag-related issues.
Reports have specified failure of airbags to deploy, illumination of airbag warning indicator, unintended deployment and airbags exploding.
Here’s what one owner had to say:
“Takata recall (nothing happened thankfully!) with the airbag. But I was looking to resell and saw in the kelly blue book that there are multiple recalls associated with the make and model. Also this car has always quietly whistled around 1500 rpms, especially when 1500 rpms is sustained. Never been able to make it go away.”
The 2013 GLK 350 had a total of 6 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 138 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Warped rotors
- Sunroof shattered
- Seat adjustment not working
Related: 15 Mercedes-Benz GLC Facts and Statistics You Should Know
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints(CarComplaints.com) | Problems(CarProblemZoo.com) |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 | 1 | 125 |
| 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 | 10 | 87 |
| 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 | 6 | 138 |
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 | 4 | 164 |
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 | – | 125 |
| 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 | 1 | 246 |
What Problems Do Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 Have?
- Warped rotors
- Sunroof shattered
- Fuel odor when tank is full
- Does not go into gear
- Takata airbag recall
- Vibration when the eco mode is on
- Seat adjustment not working
- Bad torque converter
- Thrown connecting rod
- Paint and clear coat coming off
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Mercedes-Benz GLK 350?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 | 8.7 | $17,337 – $18,421 | City: 18 – 24 /Highway: 25 – 33 |
| BMW X3 | 8.6 | $16,419 – $19,060 | City: 19 – 27 /Highway: 26 – 34 |
| Lexus NX | 8.4 | $21,070 – $23,304 | City: 22 /Highway: 27 – 28 |
| Porsche Macan | 8.3 | $25,543 – $33,176 | City: 17 /Highway: 23 |
| Infiniti QX50 | 8.2 | $15,514 – $16,320 | City: 17 /Highway: 24 – 25 |
| Acura RDX | 8.1 | $17,185 – $18,595 | City: 19 – 20 /Highway: 27 – 28 |
| BMW X4 | 7.9 | $20,780 – $21,865 | City: 19 – 20/Highway: 27 – 28 |
| Lincoln MKC | 7.9 | $14,986 – $15,922 | City: 18 – 20 /Highway: 26 – 29 |
| Volvo XC60 | 7.8 | $14,028 – $25,587 | City: 17 – 24 /Highway: 24 – 31 |
| Audi Q5 | 7.6 | $16,473 – $22,682 | City: 17 – 24 /Highway: 24 – 31 |
| Land Rover Discovery Sport | 7.4 | $16,116 – $18,904 | City: 20 /Highway: 26 |
| Land Rover LR2 | 6.8 | $15,048 – $15,110 | City: 17 /Highway: 24 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: Mercedes Benz GLE In Snow & Winter Driving (Explained)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/mercedes-benz/glk-class
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/mercedes-benz/glk-class/2015
https://www.edmunds.com/mercedes-benz/glk-class/2015/review/
https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/glk-class/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2015/mercedes-benz/glk
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Mercedes-Benz/GLK 350/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/mercedesbenz/GLK 350/
