U.S. public vehicle records

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300: complaints, problems and recalls

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

69 owner complaints analyzed

16 distinct recall campaigns

21,250 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2020 model year. Data updated: 2026-10-01 (October 1, 2026). 18 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Engine is the most frequently named component, appearing in 21 of 69 complaints (30.4%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
Topic	Matching reports	Share of complaints
Engine operation	6	8.7%
Electrical and battery issues	6	8.7%
Braking behavior	4	5.8%
Steering behavior	4	5.8%
Fuel system concerns	2	2.9%
Transmission and shifting	1	1.4%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Engine

Unknown Or Other

Steering

Electrical System

Exterior Lighting

Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking

Fuel/Propulsion System

Power Train

Component breakdown data
Category	Count
Engine	21
Unknown Or Other	15
Steering	5
Electrical System	4
Exterior Lighting	4
Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking	4
Fuel/Propulsion System	4
Power Train	4

Engine: 21; Unknown Or Other: 15; Steering: 5; Electrical System: 4; Exterior Lighting: 4; Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking: 4; Fuel/Propulsion System: 4; Power Train: 4

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000

25,000 to 49,999

50,000 to 74,999

75,000 to 99,999

100,000 to 149,999

150,000 and above

Under 25,000: 9; 25,000 to 49,999: 6; 50,000 to 74,999: 3; 75,000 to 99,999: 0; 100,000 to 149,999: 0; 150,000 and above: 0

Under 25,000 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (9). 51 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026

2020: 3; 2021: 8; 2022: 8; 2023: 9; 2024: 13; 2025: 20; 2026: 8

Pattern summary

Engine leads the component reports. Engine operation appears in 6 complaint narratives. Electrical and battery issues appears in 6 complaint narratives. Braking behavior appears in 4 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Examples from the source records

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 11299643 · 2020-01-15 (January 15, 2020)

DRIVING ALONG RANDOM TRAFFIC NO PATTERN, AUTOMATIC BRAKE ASSIST IS TEMPORARILY NOT ACTIVE , BRIGHT YELLOW WORDING, DANGER AUTO BRAKE ASSIST WILL NOT FUNCTION AT THIS TIME.

Owner-reported narrative. 2,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 11299643 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11311725 · 2020-02-26 (February 26, 2020)

THE VEHICLE WONDERS WITHIN THE LANE WHEN MERCEDES DISTRONIC DRIVER ASSISTANCE IS ACTIVATED, PARTICULARLY ON GENTLE CURVES AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. IT WILL HIT LANE BUMPS UNLESS THE DRIVER ACTIVELY STEERS AWAY FROM THE LANE MARKINGS. THE 2020 GLC3004MATIC HAS BEEN DOING THIS SINCE WE PURCHASED IT NEW ON JANUARY 2, 2020. MERCEDES DEALER HAS CHECKED THE VEHICLE AND IS NOW DESCRIBING THE VEHICLES BEHAVIOR AS NORMAL. ACCORDING TO MERCEDES THIS IS A NEW DRIVER ASSISTANCE PACKAGE IN THE 2020 GLC. IT IS A MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD IF THE VEHICLE IS NOT ACTIVELY …

Owner-reported narrative. 20 miles reported. Look up ODI 11311725 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11385956 · 2020-12-31 (December 31, 2020)

THE AUDIBLE TIC-TOK SOUND OF THE TURN SIGNAL IS WAY TOO SOFT. THE SOUND IS SUPPOSED TO GIVE ONE NOTICE THAT THE TURN SIGNAL IS ON. IT SIMPLY ISN'T LOUD ENOUGH TO PROVIDE THAT FEEDBACK. CONSEQUENTLY I OFTEN FIND THAT I'M DRIVING DOWN THE STREET HAVING COMPLETED A HALF-TURN ( ONE WHERE IT DOESN'T TRIGGER A SHUT OFF) WITH MY TURN SIGNAL ON FOR BLOCKS BEFORE I NOTICE THAT THE TURN BLINKER IS STILL ON.

Owner-reported narrative. 500 miles reported. Look up ODI 11385956 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11403638 · 2021-03-18 (March 18, 2021)

RECEIVED A SAFETY RECALL NOTICE TO HAVE CORRECTIVE ACTION TAKEN TO THE COMMUNICATION MODULE TO COMMUNICATE THE CORRECT VEHICLE'S LOCATION FOR THE EMERGENCY CALL SYSTEM; HOWEVER, LOCAL DEALER SAYS THEY CANNOT RESOLVE. COPY OF RECALL NOTICE ATTACHED - SEE BELOW.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11403638 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11405472 · 2021-03-29 (March 29, 2021)

WHILE DRIVING UNDER AN OVERPASS THE BREAKS ACTIVATED ABRUPTLY AND UNEXPECTEDLY. WE WHERE GOING ABOUT 35 MILES PER HOUR AND IF IT WASN'T FOR THE SEAT BELTS WE WOULD OF HIT THE WINDSHIELD. LUCKILY NO ONE WAS FOLLOWING US UP CLOSE.. IT HAPPENED TWICE AT THE SAME SPOT WHERE THERE IS A SHADOW FROM THE OVERPASS (AT SAME TIME OF DAY)

Owner-reported narrative. 5,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 11405472 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11406769 · 2021-04-06 (April 6, 2021)

RECEIVED SAFETY RECALL FROM MERCEDES BENZ (NHTSA RECALL #21V058) AND HAVE TRIED TO SCHEDULE WITH DEALER ON SEVERAL OPPORTUNITIES TO GET THE REPAIRS COMPLETED AND THEY CONTINUE STATING THEY CANNOT PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIRS

Owner-reported narrative. 6,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 11406769 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11413949 · 2021-04-26 (April 26, 2021)

I WAS DRIVING AND STOPPED CAR TO MAKE A TURN WAITING FOR INCOMING TRAFFIC TO CLEAR. WHEN I WENT TO ACCELERATE AFTER TRAFFIC CLEARED, THE CAR WOULD NOT GO ABOVE 0.5 MILES PER HOUR. I MADE SURE THE GEAR HAD NOT SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL, IT WAS ON COMFORT DRIVE. I CHANGED TO SPORTS DRIVE AND THE CAR STILL WOULD NOT ACCELERATE ABOVE 0.5 MILES. I WAS NOW STUCK IN THE MIDDLE OF INTERSECTION WITH INCOMING TRAFFIC, SO I TRIED TO REVERSE. THE CAR REVERSED NO FASTER THAN 0.5 MILES PER HOUR. I TURNED CAR OFF AND BACK ON, AND ACCELERATION THEN WORKED. VERY SCARY…

Owner-reported narrative. 3,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 11413949 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11414496 · 2021-04-29 (April 29, 2021)

THE SUNROOF OF OUR CAR SHATTERED BY ITSELF WHEN WE WERE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET. THERE WAS NO PROJECTILE THAT CAUSED THE SUNROOF TO SHATTER AND THE DEALERSHIP WAS ABLE TO CONFIRM THAT. BUT THE DEALERSHIP AND THE COMPANY ARE UNABLE TO SAY FOR CERTAIN WHY THIS HAPPENED AND WHETHER OR NOT THIS WILL HAPPEN AGAIN. THE INCIDENT CAUSED GLASS TO FALL ON ALL OUR PASSENGERS AND THE SOUND OF THE GLASS SHATTERING DURING DRIVING REALLY SCARED US. WE ARE CONCERNED FOR OUR SAFETY AND EVEN MORE CONCERNED THAT MERCEDES IS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE WHY THIS HAPPENED A…

Owner-reported narrative. 17,500 miles reported. Look up ODI 11414496 at NHTSA ↗

Recall history

16 distinct campaigns affect this selection. Announcement dates below are different from vehicle model years. A campaign may cover multiple years.

19V540000 · Forward Collision Avoidance: Sensing System: Radar

Reported: 2019-07-19 (July 19, 2019)

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 C300 Cabrio, C300A Cabrio 4MATIC, C300 Coupe, C300 Coupe 4MATIC, C300, C300 4MATIC, C43 AMG Cabrio 4MATIC, C43 AMG Coupe 4MATIC, C43 AMG 4MATIC, C63 AMG Cabrio, C63S AMG Cabrio, C63 AMG Coupe, C63S AMG Coupe, C63 AMG, C63S AMG, CLS450, CLS450 4MATIC, CLS53 AMG 4MATIC, E300, E300 4MATIC, E450 Cabrio, E450 Cabrio 4MATIC, E450 Coupe, E450 Coupe 4MATIC, E450 Wagon 4MATIC, E450 4MATIC, E53 AMG Cabrio 4MATIC, E53 AMG Coupe 4MATIC, E53 AMG 4MATIC, E63S AMG 4MATIC, E63S AMG Wagon 4MATIC, S450, S450 4MATIC, S560 Cabrio, S560 Coupe 4MATIC, S560, S560 4MATIC, S560 4MATIC Maybach, S63 AMG Cabrio 4MATIC, S63 AMG Coupe 4MATIC, S63 AMG 4MATIC, S65 AMG Cabrio, S65 AMG, and AMG GT53 Coupe 4MATIC vehicles, and 2020 GLC300 Coupe 4MATIC, GLE350 4MATIC, and GLE450 4MATIC vehicles equipped with the Driver Assistance Package. A software error in the radar sensor control unit may impair the functionality of the Active Brake Assist.

Consequence: An impaired Active Brake Assist may not automatically apply partial or full braking as expected, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the radar sensor control unit software, free of charge. The recall began September 13, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019080008.

Component	Mileage range (25th–75th percentile)	Median	Usable records	Examples
Engine	Too few reports for a range	30,000 mi	3 (sparse)	ODI 11455199 · 30,000 mi The contact's wife owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and diagnosed with ignition failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but declined to buy back the vehicle and offered a two-year service plan for a free oil change per year. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000. Look up ODI 11455199 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11589176 · 25,000 mi The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine misfired. In addition, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was turned off and restarted the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle drove as needed. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic however, the failure was unable to be duplicated. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure occurred intermittently for several months. The vehicle was ta… Look up ODI 11589176 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11629875 · 40,000 mi The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that while stopped at a red light, the vehicle started shaking and jerking. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the cylinder head needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000. Look up ODI 11629875 at NHTSA ↗
Unknown Or Other	Too few reports for a range	3,000 mi	3 (sparse)	ODI 11385956 · 500 mi THE AUDIBLE TIC-TOK SOUND OF THE TURN SIGNAL IS WAY TOO SOFT. THE SOUND IS SUPPOSED TO GIVE ONE NOTICE THAT THE TURN SIGNAL IS ON. IT SIMPLY ISN'T LOUD ENOUGH TO PROVIDE THAT FEEDBACK. CONSEQUENTLY I OFTEN FIND THAT I'M DRIVING DOWN THE STREET HAVING COMPLETED A HALF-TURN ( ONE WHERE IT DOESN'T TRIGGER A SHUT OFF) WITH MY TURN SIGNAL ON FOR BLOCKS BEFORE I NOTICE THAT THE TURN BLINKER IS STILL ON. Look up ODI 11385956 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11406769 · 6,000 mi RECEIVED SAFETY RECALL FROM MERCEDES BENZ (NHTSA RECALL #21V058) AND HAVE TRIED TO SCHEDULE WITH DEALER ON SEVERAL OPPORTUNITIES TO GET THE REPAIRS COMPLETED AND THEY CONTINUE STATING THEY CANNOT PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIRS Look up ODI 11406769 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11413949 · 3,000 mi I WAS DRIVING AND STOPPED CAR TO MAKE A TURN WAITING FOR INCOMING TRAFFIC TO CLEAR. WHEN I WENT TO ACCELERATE AFTER TRAFFIC CLEARED, THE CAR WOULD NOT GO ABOVE 0.5 MILES PER HOUR. I MADE SURE THE GEAR HAD NOT SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL, IT WAS ON COMFORT DRIVE. I CHANGED TO SPORTS DRIVE AND THE CAR STILL WOULD NOT ACCELERATE ABOVE 0.5 MILES. I WAS NOW STUCK IN THE MIDDLE OF INTERSECTION WITH INCOMING TRAFFIC, SO I TRIED TO REVERSE. THE CAR REVERSED NO FASTER THAN 0.5 MILES PER HOUR. I TURNED CAR OFF AND BACK ON, AND ACCELERATION THEN WORKED. VERY SCARY… Look up ODI 11413949 at NHTSA ↗
Steering	Too few reports for a range	3,010 mi	2 (sparse)	ODI 11311725 · 20 mi THE VEHICLE WONDERS WITHIN THE LANE WHEN MERCEDES DISTRONIC DRIVER ASSISTANCE IS ACTIVATED, PARTICULARLY ON GENTLE CURVES AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. IT WILL HIT LANE BUMPS UNLESS THE DRIVER ACTIVELY STEERS AWAY FROM THE LANE MARKINGS. THE 2020 GLC3004MATIC HAS BEEN DOING THIS SINCE WE PURCHASED IT NEW ON JANUARY 2, 2020. MERCEDES DEALER HAS CHECKED THE VEHICLE AND IS NOW DESCRIBING THE VEHICLES BEHAVIOR AS NORMAL. ACCORDING TO MERCEDES THIS IS A NEW DRIVER ASSISTANCE PACKAGE IN THE 2020 GLC. IT IS A MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD IF THE VEHICLE IS NOT ACTIVELY … Look up ODI 11311725 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11608519 · 6,000 mi The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 equipped with Goodyear Tires, Tire Line: Eagle Sport All Season, Tire Size: 255/45/R20, DOT Number: NE12JU1R1021. The contact stated that within a year of purchasing the vehicle brand new, he noticed that there was significant amount of rubber coming off the outer side of the front passenger's side tire. The contact stated that the failure was moderate on the front driver's side tire. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the front driver's side tire was replaced twice du… Look up ODI 11608519 at NHTSA ↗
Electrical System	Too few reports for a range	40,000 mi	1 (sparse)	ODI 11558553 · 40,000 mi The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the 12-Volt battery warning light remained illuminated. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle shut off. The failure also occurred while driving on a busy freeway. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the STOP/START button was faulty and needed to be replaced. The STOP/START button was replaced but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provid… Look up ODI 11558553 at NHTSA ↗
Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking	Too few reports for a range	5,000 mi	1 (sparse)	ODI 11405472 · 5,000 mi WHILE DRIVING UNDER AN OVERPASS THE BREAKS ACTIVATED ABRUPTLY AND UNEXPECTEDLY. WE WHERE GOING ABOUT 35 MILES PER HOUR AND IF IT WASN'T FOR THE SEAT BELTS WE WOULD OF HIT THE WINDSHIELD. LUCKILY NO ONE WAS FOLLOWING US UP CLOSE.. IT HAPPENED TWICE AT THE SAME SPOT WHERE THERE IS A SHADOW FROM THE OVERPASS (AT SAME TIME OF DAY) Look up ODI 11405472 at NHTSA ↗

Month	Complaints	Campaigns announced	Examples
2024-11	1	None	ODI 11623992 · 30,000 mi The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the air bag warning light remained illuminated, indicating that the front passenger’s side seat air bag was inoperable. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000. Look up ODI 11623992 at NHTSA ↗
2024-12	1	None	ODI 11629875 · 40,000 mi The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that while stopped at a red light, the vehicle started shaking and jerking. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the cylinder head needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000. Look up ODI 11629875 at NHTSA ↗
2025-01	1	None	ODI 11635665 Car was running rough so I took it to the mercedes benz dealer they diagnosed the problem as cylinder 1 misfire and and cylinder head needed to to be replaced which I did $5500 dollars later this is a common problem and Mercedex Benz needs to recall the engine and reimburse me Look up ODI 11635665 at NHTSA ↗
2025-02	1	None	ODI 11640706 The check engine light illuminated, I took the car to the dealer I bought. They said the cylinder head on the engine needs to be replaced, when I check the internet it seems it is a known issue for Mercedes X253 but there is not a recall program. I bought the car from the dealer, and put on 5k miles in a year. Look up ODI 11640706 at NHTSA ↗
2025-03	1	None	ODI 11651058 Dear Sirs: I own a 2020 GLC300W Mercedes SUV. As of this date, It has stalled 5 times while driving on the highway and on the roads within an 8 month period. Throughout this period, I have taken the vehicle to the Mercedes dealership in Riverside, CA three times to have this inspected. After their first inspection, the dealership claimed that the problem was due to a recall on a computer software update needed. However, the vehicle stalled two more times while driving on the highway. After the second inspection, the dealership claimed the prob… Look up ODI 11651058 at NHTSA ↗
2025-04	3	None	ODI 11653722 The check engine light was on. There is a problem with the oil pump valve of the engine. The problem has been confirmed by a dealer and an independent mechanic. Look up ODI 11653722 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11656070 · 35,886 mi The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated while attempting to reverse, the back over prevention camera displayed a blank screen. The vehicle was not taken to an independent mechanic or dealer to be diagnosed. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall for the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V232000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION); however… Look up ODI 11656070 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11657175 Some M264 Engines are predisposition to premature cylinder head failure, this issue can cause significant misfire issues. It also leads to a costly repair. We experienced issues with a P219D code , we had the coils and plugs replaced on a 2020 GLC 300 with 38.5 k miles. We assumed that this issues with a misfire and check engine light were corrected. My wife was turning onto [XXX] in Pascagoula MS last week, the car misfired and stalled with cars and semi trucks rapidly approaching, several cars had to slam on breaks and this issues al… Look up ODI 11657175 at NHTSA ↗
2025-05	1	None	ODI 11661143 Entire front right headlight assembly and module failed with no headlight, turn signal, park light etc. There is no visible external damage to the assembly although there is some moisture inside assembly. From internet search, it appears that this is a very common failure. Cost is over $2500 for replacement from local mechanics and over $3300 from Mercedes dealerships with little to no warranty for future failures either. Look up ODI 11661143 at NHTSA ↗
2025-06	2	None	ODI 11665281 •Jan 2025, while the car owner was driving her GLC300, a warning light came on, the car shook and then shut down. AAA tow truck suggested Green’s Garage as an approved nearby repair shop. Car was towed there and repaired for approximately $450.00. •[XXX], late afternoon, the same problem arose but the car did not shut down. The car owner drove the car home and the car was dropped off at Green's Garage (GG) on the morning of May 27. Late that afternoon, GG called us to tell us the problem is not related to the January repair…Even though the symp… Look up ODI 11665281 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11667157 Panoramic sunroof blew off vehicle while driving. Other drivers were put at a risk from a vehicle component flying through the air at high speed. The vehicle has been inspected by the dealership. No warnings prior to the problem. There is a recall with Mercedes Benz for this issue buy my VIN is not the included number but should be included. Look up ODI 11667157 at NHTSA ↗
2025-07	1	None	ODI 11674358 For the past 6 months, the monitor in my SUV wont come on when I turn on the truck. Even when I turn the vehicle off, remove the key and step out of the vehicle, it will still do it until like the I next day. Often, still, when I am putting my car in reverse, the camera does not work. Very often. This put the safety of me and my children at risk as this is not what I am accustomed to as far as safety is concerned. I took the car to Mercedes Benz dealership here in Augusta GA and showed multiple videos of the screen not coming on or not worki… Look up ODI 11674358 at NHTSA ↗
2025-08	2	None	ODI 11678816 With approximately 57,500 miles, the car began idling roughly, misfiring and losing power. The dealership has diagnosed it with a cracked cylinder head which will require a replacement at a cost of $9,765.00. The dealership indicated this is a common issue with the M264 engine (rear wheel driver) in the GLC300 and the M260 engine (the front wheel drive version) has already had a service extension for 15 years/180,000 miles. This type of failure should not occur at this mileage or even significantly more. Look up ODI 11678816 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11680002 While driving on the highway I began to hear an unusual amount of wind noise inside the car. I thought the sound was coming from the sunroof, though it was completely closed. I pushed the button to confirm it was sealed, but the noise continued. Shortly after, I heard a loud cracking sound followed by a sudden pop. I looked in my rearview and saw something flying but didn’t immediately recognize what it was. I pulled over to inspect the situation and discovered that the entire exterior trim panel between the windshield and sunroof had detached… Look up ODI 11680002 at NHTSA ↗
2025-09	1	None	ODI 11689240 On August 15, 2025, I was driving my Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC on the freeway under normal conditions. Without any warning lights, error messages, or prior signs of mechanical issues, the vehicle suddenly and completely lost power. The accelerator pedal became unresponsive and felt locked, and the vehicle came to an abrupt stop in the middle of an active freeway, in the second lane from the left. I had no ability to control or prevent the stoppage. This unexpected power loss directly led to a rear-end collision. The vehicle behind me sustai… Look up ODI 11689240 at NHTSA ↗
2025-10	4	None	ODI 11692479 The engine is failing, I was on my way to drop my [XXX] off at daycare when suddenly my car went above and stayed above 5rpms meanwhile I was only able to drive 8mph. This caused a tractor trailer swerving into on coming traffic, if he didn’t my toddler and I would have been killed. As I managed to pull off and call my husband to get the baby the engine started making a strange clicking noise. There’s maybe 60,000 miles on this vehicle none of this should be happening. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.… Look up ODI 11692479 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11693266 Problem (repeat failure / prior warranty replacement): This vehicle has a recurring headlamp defect involving moisture ingress into the headlamp housing/connectors, causing electrical shorting and warning messages, with risk of headlight failure. Mercedes-Benz replaced this same headlamp under warranty in 2021 for the identical issue (moisture/shorting). The defect has recurred on the same vehicle.Recent verification: On Oct 13, 2025, the dealer (Mercedes-Benz of North Palm Beach) observed visible condensation/fogging in the lamp and confirmed … Look up ODI 11693266 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11694592 I am the owner of a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 with the M264 engine. I am hoping that you can assist me with a widely reported, systemic defect: the premature failure of the master cylinder, regardless of vehicle mileage. This issue is extensively documented by numerous owners of the 2020 and 2021 GLC300 models across various public forums, including Reddit and dedicated GLC owner communities. I took my vehicle to Mercedes dealearship for annual service and an intermittent check engine light. The dealership informed me it was a spark plug issue.… Look up ODI 11694592 at NHTSA ↗
2025-11	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-12	3	None	ODI 11702836 My 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 experienced a complete engine failure at ~51,000 miles, shortly after a major repair for a known defect. Initially, the vehicle showed a misfire on cylinder #3, which was diagnosed at RBM of Alpharetta as low compression due to valve seat damage, matching MB TSB LI01.30-P-072328. The cylinder head was replaced in Aug 2025. About two months later, while driving under normal conditions, the vehicle made a loud cranking/knocking noise and completely stalled in traffic without any check engine light or warning. This s… Look up ODI 11702836 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11703748 The engine in my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 suddenly malfunctioned while driving on two separate occasions. The vehicle began shaking violently and lost power without warning. I could not accelerate and had to pull over immediately. I turned the vehicle off and restarted it to regain limited driveability. On the second incident, the power loss was so abrupt that it felt as if I had been rear-ended. I feared the vehicle would stall in traffic and cause a crash. Following these events, the check engine light remains constantly on. The dealer ins… Look up ODI 11703748 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11706186 The front main light on the driver side stopped working after a rain and it continued getting moister in the head lamp every night until a few days ago and as a result the head light assembly does not work at all ,the same thing is happening on the passenger side front head light assembly except it is still working .research showed that this has been a problem on similar Mercedes Benz cars and considering that the car has not had any accidents to possibly causing this it was concluded that this should have been part of the recalls .car is not… Look up ODI 11706186 at NHTSA ↗
2026-01	2	None	ODI 11711256 Water condensation within the driver side headlight which caused the complete headlight unit, control unit, and module to fail. This is a huge safety issue due to unable to operate vehicle safely during the when it comes to making left turns due to no signal indicator and a safety issue/hazard when driving at night. The issue has been inspected with a local dealer and with corporate being aware of the manufacturer defect. There were no indicators nor warning lamps prior to this issue. Look up ODI 11711256 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11712746 Premature oil pump failure on a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 with 71,000 miles. The check engine light illuminated on December 29th, 2025 and with no other warning symptoms. The vehicle has been maintained properly, including regular visits to Mercedes-Benz dealerships. The oil pump is a critical engine component that should not fail at this mileage. It has been recommended to not drive the vehicle without repairing as oil can leak onto a hot engine. This issue has been confirmed by a Mercedes dealer. Mercedes-Benz has offered $1,000 in goodwil… Look up ODI 11712746 at NHTSA ↗
2026-02	2	None	ODI 11715247 · 53,035 mi The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the panoramic roof unexpectedly shattered. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the panoramic sunroof and the sunroof protector needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 53,035. Look up ODI 11715247 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11719167 There was a recall on headlight leaking and this happened to my left headlight no damage but leaking and this caused headlight to not work Look up ODI 11719167 at NHTSA ↗
2026-03	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-04	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-05	1	None	ODI 11737705 I have had my car for almost two years. This problem has been on-going the whole time. It happens intermittently, I never know. I will be driving it and usually when I am making a turn or pulling onto a main road, you press the gas to go and the car hesitates and makes a loud brooooooooom sound like it is trying to go or figure out what to do and if you are pulling out onto a main road with on comming traffic, this is dangerous. We have seen information that on the 2019 and 2018 GLC300's this has been documented, my car is a 2020 but it's the … Look up ODI 11737705 at NHTSA ↗
2026-06	1	None	ODI 11746524 My 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 triggered check engine light with code P06DA (engine oil pressure control) at 40,000 miles. The failed component is an oil pressure control sensor/solenoid worth approximately $200. However, due to Mercedes-Benz's engine design (M264 engine), the entire engine must be removed from the vehicle to access and replace this part. Repair estimate from authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership (Mercedes-Benz of Stevens Creek): $8,391. SAFETY CONCERN: Loss of oil pressure can cause catastrophic engine failure while driving. Eng… Look up ODI 11746524 at NHTSA ↗
2026-07	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-08	2	None	ODI 11760501 What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The Forward Collision Avoidance / Active Brake Assist (Automatic Emergency Braking) system failed by falsely identifying a non-existent threat and initiating uncommanded emergency stopping. The vehicle and its onboard control modules are fully available for physical and diagnostic inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? While traveling at approximately 35 mph, the vehicle suddenly executed maximum emergenc… Look up ODI 11760501 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11761172 My check-engine light recently illuminated, and diagnostic testing identified fault code P06DA00, relating to the oil pump control valve circuit. I have been quoted over $5,000 to replace the oil control valve and oil pump harness. I was quoted the following by Mercedes Servuce in Manchester, NH- Oil Pressure Regulator Valve: need to remove lower oil pan only to access oil control valve and replace the valve and sub harness. $5013.52. This is a known issue. My vehicle has been well maintained, and I have been advised that it is otherwise in ex… Look up ODI 11761172 at NHTSA ↗
2026-09	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-10 (partial)	0	None	No examples available for this selection.

Component	Engine	Unknown Or Other	Steering	Electrical System	Exterior Lighting	Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking	Fuel/Propulsion System	Power Train
Engine	—	0	0	0	0	0	2 ODI 11696567 Nationwide known cylinder head issues. Cylinder head work needing replaced. Look up ODI 11696567 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11737705 I have had my car for almost two years. This problem has been on-going the whole time. It happens intermittently, I never know. I will be driving it and usually when I am making a turn or pulling onto a main road, you press the gas to go and the car hesitates and makes a loud brooooooooom sound like it is trying to go or figure out what to do and if you are pulling out onto a main road with on comming traffic, this is dangerous. We have seen information that on the 2019 and 2018 GLC300's this has been documented, my car is a 2020 but it's the … Look up ODI 11737705 at NHTSA ↗	2 ODI 11737705 I have had my car for almost two years. This problem has been on-going the whole time. It happens intermittently, I never know. I will be driving it and usually when I am making a turn or pulling onto a main road, you press the gas to go and the car hesitates and makes a loud brooooooooom sound like it is trying to go or figure out what to do and if you are pulling out onto a main road with on comming traffic, this is dangerous. We have seen information that on the 2019 and 2018 GLC300's this has been documented, my car is a 2020 but it's the … Look up ODI 11737705 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11746524 My 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 triggered check engine light with code P06DA (engine oil pressure control) at 40,000 miles. The failed component is an oil pressure control sensor/solenoid worth approximately $200. However, due to Mercedes-Benz's engine design (M264 engine), the entire engine must be removed from the vehicle to access and replace this part. Repair estimate from authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership (Mercedes-Benz of Stevens Creek): $8,391. SAFETY CONCERN: Loss of oil pressure can cause catastrophic engine failure while driving. Eng… Look up ODI 11746524 at NHTSA ↗
Unknown Or Other	0	—	1 ODI 11516174 There is a squeaky noise from the suspension, shock absorbers or somewhere in that area. They have fixed the issue multiple times. Kept my car in the workshop for days multiple times but it’s not getting fixed. They probably sold me a lemon. I need help in rectifying this issue. Look up ODI 11516174 at NHTSA ↗	0	0	0	1 ODI 11651058 Dear Sirs: I own a 2020 GLC300W Mercedes SUV. As of this date, It has stalled 5 times while driving on the highway and on the roads within an 8 month period. Throughout this period, I have taken the vehicle to the Mercedes dealership in Riverside, CA three times to have this inspected. After their first inspection, the dealership claimed that the problem was due to a recall on a computer software update needed. However, the vehicle stalled two more times while driving on the highway. After the second inspection, the dealership claimed the prob… Look up ODI 11651058 at NHTSA ↗	0
Steering	0	1 ODI 11516174 There is a squeaky noise from the suspension, shock absorbers or somewhere in that area. They have fixed the issue multiple times. Kept my car in the workshop for days multiple times but it’s not getting fixed. They probably sold me a lemon. I need help in rectifying this issue. Look up ODI 11516174 at NHTSA ↗	—	0	0	0	0	0
Electrical System	0	0	0	—	0	0	0	0
Exterior Lighting	0	0	0	0	—	0	0	0
Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking	0	0	0	0	0	—	0	0
Fuel/Propulsion System	2 ODI 11696567 Nationwide known cylinder head issues. Cylinder head work needing replaced. Look up ODI 11696567 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11737705 I have had my car for almost two years. This problem has been on-going the whole time. It happens intermittently, I never know. I will be driving it and usually when I am making a turn or pulling onto a main road, you press the gas to go and the car hesitates and makes a loud brooooooooom sound like it is trying to go or figure out what to do and if you are pulling out onto a main road with on comming traffic, this is dangerous. We have seen information that on the 2019 and 2018 GLC300's this has been documented, my car is a 2020 but it's the … Look up ODI 11737705 at NHTSA ↗	1 ODI 11651058 Dear Sirs: I own a 2020 GLC300W Mercedes SUV. As of this date, It has stalled 5 times while driving on the highway and on the roads within an 8 month period. Throughout this period, I have taken the vehicle to the Mercedes dealership in Riverside, CA three times to have this inspected. After their first inspection, the dealership claimed that the problem was due to a recall on a computer software update needed. However, the vehicle stalled two more times while driving on the highway. After the second inspection, the dealership claimed the prob… Look up ODI 11651058 at NHTSA ↗	0	0	0	0	—	1 ODI 11737705 I have had my car for almost two years. This problem has been on-going the whole time. It happens intermittently, I never know. I will be driving it and usually when I am making a turn or pulling onto a main road, you press the gas to go and the car hesitates and makes a loud brooooooooom sound like it is trying to go or figure out what to do and if you are pulling out onto a main road with on comming traffic, this is dangerous. We have seen information that on the 2019 and 2018 GLC300's this has been documented, my car is a 2020 but it's the … Look up ODI 11737705 at NHTSA ↗
Power Train	2 ODI 11737705 I have had my car for almost two years. This problem has been on-going the whole time. It happens intermittently, I never know. I will be driving it and usually when I am making a turn or pulling onto a main road, you press the gas to go and the car hesitates and makes a loud brooooooooom sound like it is trying to go or figure out what to do and if you are pulling out onto a main road with on comming traffic, this is dangerous. We have seen information that on the 2019 and 2018 GLC300's this has been documented, my car is a 2020 but it's the … Look up ODI 11737705 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11746524 My 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 triggered check engine light with code P06DA (engine oil pressure control) at 40,000 miles. The failed component is an oil pressure control sensor/solenoid worth approximately $200. However, due to Mercedes-Benz's engine design (M264 engine), the entire engine must be removed from the vehicle to access and replace this part. Repair estimate from authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership (Mercedes-Benz of Stevens Creek): $8,391. SAFETY CONCERN: Loss of oil pressure can cause catastrophic engine failure while driving. Eng… Look up ODI 11746524 at NHTSA ↗	0	0	0	0	0	1 ODI 11737705 I have had my car for almost two years. This problem has been on-going the whole time. It happens intermittently, I never know. I will be driving it and usually when I am making a turn or pulling onto a main road, you press the gas to go and the car hesitates and makes a loud brooooooooom sound like it is trying to go or figure out what to do and if you are pulling out onto a main road with on comming traffic, this is dangerous. We have seen information that on the 2019 and 2018 GLC300's this has been documented, my car is a 2020 but it's the … Look up ODI 11737705 at NHTSA ↗	—

Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
Year	Incident dates used	Filing date fallbacks	Excluded dates
2022	58	0	1
2023	55	0	0

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300: complaints, problems and recalls

Key facts

Most common problems

Component breakdown

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaints over time

Pattern summary

Examples from the source records

Recall history

Vehicle analysis explorer

Data completeness

Problems by model year

Failure mileage by component

Complaint and recall timeline

Emerging complaint spikes

Equal-age model-year comparison

Components reported together

Recurring narrative patterns

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

Stalling or loss of power

Hard or delayed shifting

Steering assistance concerns