2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GLK-Class Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
VIN Decoder
143
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
AIR BAGS
95 complaints
The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the driver’s side air bag needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 106,000.
Nov 22, 2024
Unknown - A light has come on stating the driver airbag is not functional. I am fearful of driving my vehicle worried that if I am in an accident the airbag will not protect me. I have never been in an accident in this vehicle and have maintained it promptly on all services and maintenance. I have always valued the Mercedes brand this is my 3rd vehicle and I am saddened that this has happened.
Mar 07, 2022
According to Takata, in the event of an inflator explosion metal fragments could pass though the air bag cushion material, which mayores últ in injury or death to vehicle occupants.
Jun 24, 2021
TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL REPLACEMENT PENDING. UNRESOLVED. PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG RECALL REQUIRED. CAR IS CURRENTLY IN DUBAI. IT WAS IMPORTED TO DUBAI. MB UAE WILL NOT HANDLE THE REPLACEMENT THEY SAID.
Sep 19, 2020
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GLK350. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V010000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED MERCEDES-BENZ OF WILSONVILLE (25035 SW PARKWAY AVE, WILSONVILLE, OR 97070) WHO STATED THAT THE REMEDY PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Aug 11, 2020
+ 90 more complaints for this component
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
4 complaints
I am writing to express a serious safety concern regarding the Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, particularly related to the fuel pump system under the rear passenger area. It has come to my attention that the fuel pumps in these vehicles emit a strong, unpleasant odor every time the car is refueled. This poses a significant risk to both the driver and passengers. I have personally experienced a similar issue with a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350, where the pumps were constructed with a substandard plastic material that, over time, will melt and start dripping from the top of the pump. This degradation of materials significantly compromises the integrity of the system, creating a serious hazard that could, in the worst case, lead to catastrophic outcomes, including fire or explosion. I strongly urge Mercedes-Benz to investigate and address this issue as a matter of priority. The potential consequences of ignoring this matter are severe, and a permanent solution must be found before any further risk is posed to the safety of vehicle occupants. Thank you for your immediate attention to this critical safety concern. I look forward to your prompt response and the implementation of necessary corrective actions. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Oct 08, 2025
I am writing to express a serious safety concern regarding the Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, particularly related to the fuel pump system under the rear passenger area. It has come to my attention that the fuel pumps in these vehicles emit a strong, unpleasant odor every time the car is refueled. As a safety engineer, I can confirm that this poses a significant risk to both the driver and passengers. I have personally experienced a similar issue with a 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300, where the pumps were constructed with a substandard plastic material that, over time, will melt and start dripping from the top of the pump. This degradation of materials significantly compromises the integrity of the system, creating a serious hazard that could, in the worst case, lead to catastrophic outcomes, including fire or explosion. I strongly urge Mercedes-Benz to investigate and address this issue as a matter of priority. The potential consequences of ignoring this matter are severe, and a permanent solution must be found before any further risk is posed to the safety of vehicle occupants. Thank you for your immediate attention to this critical safety concern. I look forward to your prompt response and the implementation of necessary corrective actions. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jan 05, 2025
Feul leaks from the tank when the vehcle is on idling. I understand its feul pump leaking the feul. This is a gushing leak under the tank whne the car is idling no obvious leak when parked the engine is off.
Jul 17, 2023
STARTING SMELLING FUEL ON LEFT REAR OF CAR FOUND OUT IT WAS THE LEFT FUEL SENDING UNIT CRACKED AND LEAKING NEXT TO THE FUEL LINE NIPPLE
Nov 19, 2018
SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaints
Brake lines prematurely rusted through and through causing brakes not to work
May 13, 2025
Dealer reported to me that the brake lines are rusted. Dealer reported the lines are painted rather than coated as they were in the past. Vehicle is less than 10 years old so brake line rusting seems unusual.
Aug 11, 2022
Sudden loss of brake function with large amounts of brake fluid leaking from the car.
May 13, 2022
EMERGENCY BRAKE FAILS TO RELEASE. IF RELEASED BRAKE CANNOT BE APPLIED BECAUSE IT FREEZES. BRAKE WAS USED REGULARLY WHEN IN PARK AS PRESCRIBED. BRAKE WAS ALSO EXCERSIZED ACCORDING TO PROCEDURES ON P.165 OF THE 2012-3 GLK OWNERS MANUAL. UNDERBODY OF CAR WAS GENTLY WASHED PERIODICALLY TO FLUSH ANY SALT ETC. FROM EXPOSED BRAKE LINES AS PER MANUAL WHEN CAR WAS WASHED ON A REGULAR BASIS. NOW IT CANNOT BE APPLIED IN EMERGENCY SITUATIONS. THERE IS NO VISIBLE CORROSION ON THE BRAKE LINES. THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH MBUSA 2012 -2015 GLKS. RESULT" ONE E CANNOT APPLY THE EMERGENCY BRAKE IN AN EMERGENCY SITUATION. THIS IS A KNOW PROBLEM WITH C AND GLK CLASS CARS THAT MBUSA REFUSED TO RECOGNIZE. IT MAYBE A PROBLEM WITH THE LINKAGE IN THE FIREWALL. AGAIN THIS IS A SAFETY PROBLEM IN AN EMERGENCY. CAR IS ALWAYS GARAGED.
Apr 12, 2017
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 complaints
The component or system failed or malfunctioned: The part of the car that malfunctioned was mainly the brake pedal. It was stop and go traffic and the car in front of me remained stopped after traffic resumed moving forward, I moved forward with the traffic and the front end of my car impacted another car in a car crasdh. I did not excellerate greater than 5 miles an hour but the brakes of the 2013 Mercedes Benz GLK malfunctioned and failed me. The impact of the car should not have caused any damage. I am claiming the car crash/impact was caused by the malfunction of the breaks. Airbag failure-Also the air bag never opened although my car has had all recalls fixed. The other parts of the car that failed: impact bar grille fender brakes tires axle side bar radiator Also please note that the front cigaratte lighter does not work in my 2013 GLK 250 or my former 2012 GLK 250. This is a problem for GLK Yes the car is available for inspection upon request. My safety or the safety of others put at risk: due to the car crash No the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. No the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others No there were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear?
Apr 06, 2022
ADBLUE DEF HEATER AND NOX SENSORS . MY DEF FLUID / ADBLUE HEATER DEVELOPED A CODE AT 113K MILES AND AND THE SAME TIME A NOX SENSOR CODE. THE DEALER REPLACED THE NOX SENSORS FOR $2500 AND THE DEF HEATER CODE HAS COME BACK. THE VEHICLE IS HIGHWAY DRIVEN AND SHOULD NOT HAVE THESE EMISSION CODES. THE HEATER REPLACEMENT WILL COST ANOTHER $3000 OR MORE
Feb 13, 2019
DRIVING 45-50 MPH ON THE ROAD ALONE AND AM STARTLED BY LOUD NOISE WHICH RESEMBLED A GUNSHOT. I IMMEDIATELY CHECKED THE DASH TO SEE IF ANY WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED BUT SAW NOTHING. AFTER A FEW MINUTES I LOOKED UP AND NOTICED MY PANORAMIC SUNROOF WHAT SHATTERED IN TINY PIECES. DEALERSHIP STATED THAT "NO OUTSIDE SOURCE FOUND CAUSING DAMAGE" TO THE SUNROOF. CAR IS UNDER AND EXTENDED WARRANTY AND MANUFACTURE HAS REFUSED TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ISSUE.
Feb 02, 2018
PANORAMIC SUNROOF EXPLOSION. DRIVING ON A CITY STREET AT 45 MPH WHEN SUDDENLY THE CLOSED SUNROOF SHATTERED. NO FOREIGN OBJECTS OR CONTACT OCCURRED. IT WAS SPONTANEOUS EXPLOSION.
Jan 23, 2016
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350. The contact stated that the odor of fuel was present inside and outside of the vehicle. While the vehicle was parked fuel leaked underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the driver's side fuel tank housing had cracked causing fuel to leak. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed that the VIN was not included in the Manufacturer's Extended coverage for the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 66,300.
Mar 01, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a gasoline odor in the interior of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined there was a gasoline leak however, the location of the leak was unknown. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V557000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 130,000.
Feb 08, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the garage, there was a strong gasoline odor coming from the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was a strong gasoline odor inside and outside of the vehicle. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that a fee would be charged for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for an oil change, and the contact was informed that the fuel pump and the sending unit were leaking. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
Nov 13, 2023
POWER TRAIN
3 complaints
When the car ids in drive, it at time hesitate to engae and also drag when the transmission change or whne it is give gas. This leads to drag from the rear wheels and vibrations. It happens also wheel one slows and wants to increase speed. Whne the car was about one yea old, I notice this a few times and complained - I was told they did not notice anything like that. But it happened oens in a while. But now it is every day occurence - more frequenlty since December 2022
Jul 17, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 21V539000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced the failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Aug 11, 2021
THE CAR PUTS ITSELF INTO AUTOMATIC "PARK" MODE WHEN SLOWING DOWN, APPLYING BRAKES AND SPEED DROPS BELOW 7 MPH. 9 INSTANCES HAVE HAPPENED, ONCE IN REVERSE. THE TEMPERATURE OF CAR NOT AN ISSUE, THIS OCCURRED WHETHER USING KEY FOB INSERTED TO START CAR OR USING PUSH BUTTON. DEALER BULLETIN LI54.25-P-056472 ADDRESSES ISSUE BUT NOT COVERED BY MANUFACTURER. LAST OCCURRENCE 6/7/2018.
Jun 08, 2018
ENGINE
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes Benz GLK350. The contact stated that after driving approximately 30 minutes or more they would begin smelling a fuel odor coming from the rear end of the cabin. There were no warning lights. The contact had not taken the vehicle to the dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The contact found their vehicle's failure related to the recall 2012 however the recall did not include their year. The manufacturer was made aware and confirmed their vehicle was not included. The contact was referred to NHTSA. The approximate failure mileage was 85,000. The contact stated that an attempt to remove the back seat, they identified the smell and that it is coming from underneath. The vehicle has yet to be repaired and the smell is causes health problems.
Oct 04, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350. The contact stated that while taking the vehicle to 2 independent mechanics for a smog check inspection, she notified the mechanics that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The mechanics stated that at times the electrical sensor needed to be reset. Several days later the warning light returned. The contact took the vehicle to MBZ dealer who diagnosed the failure as Camshaft- hall sensor leaking oil travel into harness to my module. The Contact has now learned and been informed by mechanics of this matter. The vehicle was not repaired by MZB due to the repair cost. The failure mileage was approximately 37,573.
Oct 18, 2021
SEATS
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350. The contact stated while driving at 40 MPH, the headrest inadvertently deployed and hit the contact's husband in the back of the head. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that they continued to drive the vehicle and later veered to the side of the road to determine the cause of the failure. The dealer was notified of the failure and advised the contact that they would be responsible for the cost of the repair as the vehicle was out of warranty. The contact stated two months later, an unknown message appeared on the instrument panel indicating that the driver side and passenger side frontal air bags needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the headrest needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and did not provide any assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 73,930.
Oct 12, 2021
I HAVE A 2013 MBZ GLK350. THE VEHICLE I OWN HAS LEATHER SEATS (OR THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO BE LEATHER.) I HAVE NOTICED, ESPECIALLY ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT SEAT, THAT THE LEATHER APPEARS TO HAVE MELTED FOR SOME REASON. I THESE SEATS WERE INDEED LEATHER I WOULD HAVE THOUGHT THIS WOULD NOT BE HAPPENING, BUT UNFORTUNATELY, IT HAS. I SUSPECT THAT THE LEATHER SEATS ARE REALLY A HYBRID SEAT OF SYNTHETIC MATERIALS THAT ARE PRONE TO "MELTING."
Jul 22, 2020
STEERING
2 complaints
TILT STEERING WHEEL WILL NOT ADJUST UP AND DOWN. IT IS FIXED IN THE UP POSITION. IT WILL ADJUST IN AND OUT.
Aug 08, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GLK350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, THE VEHICLE LOSS POWER STEERING ASSIST WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE STEERING BOLT CORRODED AND DETACHED FROM THE STEERING SHAFT. THE CONTACT WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT THE RACK AND PINION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V290000 (STEERING) AS A POSSIBLE SOLUTION HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BY THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 74,277. *BF *TR
May 21, 2020
VISIBILITY/WIPER
2 complaints
DRIVER'S SIDE WIPER LEAVES A WIDE WATER STREAK WHEN LEAVING THE A-PILLAR, BLOCKING DRIVER'S VISION. SENT VEHICLE BACK TO TWO DEALERS FOR 5 TIMES. EACH TIME THE DEALERSHIP CHANGED A WIPER BLADE, BUT PROBLEM REMAINED. A NEW MB FACTORY WINDSHIELD WAS INSTALLED IN 2014 SUMMER DUE TO GLASS DAMAGE UNRELATED TO THIS DEFECT. AFTER THAT, PROBLEM REMAINS. IN NOVEMBER 2014, A SERVICE MANAGER CITED A PUBLICATION FROM XENTRY, TOPIC NUMBER LI82.30-P-059239 (C), SUGGESTING THAT IT'S A COMMON PROBLEM EXISTING ON ALL PASSENGER CAR MODEL SERIES AND THERE'S NO TECHNICAL REMEDY AVAILABLE, THUS REFUSED TO PROVIDED ANY FURTHER WARRANTY REPAIRS. A VIDEO DESCRIBING THE DEFECT IS ON YOUTUBE: HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=4NTTRAR-ZDO
Jun 09, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MERCEDES BENZ GLK 350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD ABNORMAL NOISE AS THE VEHICLE SUN ROOF SHATTERED INTO SMALL PIECES. THE VEHICLE WAS MANEUVERED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD FOR THE CONTACT TO OBSERVE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,400.
Feb 18, 2014
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
I WAS STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN WHEN THE VEHICLES RPM JUMPED TO 4000, I QUICKLY PUT THE VEHICLE IN "PARK". THEN TURNED THE ENGINE OFF AND STARTED THE ENGINE AGAIN. THE RPM JUMPED TO 4000 AGAIN. I TURNED THE ENGINE OFF AND STARTED IT AGAIN. THIS HAPPENED TWICE WITHIN A WEEK. BOTH TIMES AT A STOP - ONCE AT A STOP SIGN AND ONCE AT A TRAFFIC SIGNAL. TOOK THE VEHICLE INTO THE MERCEDES DEALER BUT MERCEDES SERVICE STATES THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. ALMOST EXACTLY 1 YEAR AGO, MY WIFE WAS IN AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE THE VEHICLE "LUNGED" FORWARD. SHE HAS NOT DRIVEN THE VEHICLE SINCE THAT INCIDENT AND I'VE BEEN DRIVING THIS VEHICLE APPROXIMATELY 2 DAYS A WEEK FOR ABOUT A YEAR. I HADN'T UNDERSTOOD HER CONCERN COMPLETELY UNTIL IT HAPPENED TO ME WHILE I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE LAST WEEK. THERE IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM BUT MERCEDES IS SAYING THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. *TR
Jan 23, 2015
I WAS BACKING MY VEHICLE INTO A SPOT ON A RESIDENTIAL STREET AND WHEN I PUT THE CAR IN "DRIVE" TO PULL FORWARD, THE CAR LUNGED FORWARD . I SLAMMED ON MY BRAKES AND WHEN THE CAR KEPT ON GOING, I PRESSED THE PARKING BRAKE AND PUT THE CAR IN "PARK". THE CAR ENDED UP JUMPING THE SIDEWALK AND HITTING THE POSTS AND GARAGE OF A HOUSE. I DID NOT PRESS THE ACCELERATOR BY MISTAKE. I DO HAVE A WITNESS WHO WAS ON THE SIDEWALK AT THE TIME WHO WATCHED ME DURING THE ORDEAL.
Feb 27, 2014
STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I am reporting a safety issue involving my Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 following repairs performed by an authorized dealership, Critz Mercedes-Benz in Savannah, Georgia. I brought the vehicle in due to persistent noise when shifting gears and steering-related symptoms. I asked the dealership to fully investigate the cause of the issue and not limit the diagnosis or repair to any single system, as I am not a mechanic and relied on their expertise. I paid $5,674.90 for the repair. During the process, a service advisor contacted me regarding an additional charge of approximately $800, which I approved to ensure the vehicle was repaired correctly and to avoid any claim that I declined recommended work. After the first repair, the noise was still present. I contacted the service advisor and returned the vehicle. After the vehicle had already been released to me, the dealership’s own technician recorded a diagnostic video stating that a suspension arm was “about to break.” I have the video and the email containing the link. This confirms the vehicle was returned to me with a serious unresolved safety defect, and I returned it after learning of this issue. The dealership performed additional work and released the vehicle again, but the noise remained. I asked the service advisor to hear the noise in person, after which he verbally stated that “all GLK 350s do that.” I later sent a text expressing my concern, and he replied in writing stating the same. I also have a saved and transcribed voicemail repeating this statement. Since the repair, the condition has worsened. Steering noise continues and braking effectiveness has degraded, requiring longer stopping distance. Because steering and suspension directly affect braking and vehicle control, this presents a safety risk. Due to the expense of the failed repair, I have no immediate alternative transportation and have been forced to continue driving the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection.
Dec 17, 2025
AIR BAGS,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
Passenger head restraint exploded no accident no bump nothing !!! The car had just been in for service 2 months ago I have video saying excellent condition..11,500 miles only ..I went to Mercedes they are charging me $900.00 for new headrest they said plastic parts broke cannot fix :(
Sep 29, 2025
STEERING,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
Out of no where when I cranked my car the airbag light came on in my car. I took it to have a diagnostic test done and the report shows short circuit at steering gear and driver air bag squib. When I look up my make and model a previous recall for driver airbag comes up, but it's not assigned to my specific vin. Also, there was a previous recall for the steering gear bolts on my make and model but it also was not assigned to my vin. NO ONE AT MERCEDES WILL HELP ME! THEY STATE NO ONE HAS THE ABILITY TO ASSIGN RECALLS TO A SPECIFIC VIN IF IT WAS MISSED IN ERROR. My vehicle currently has no airbags cause the system has disabled itself to prevent possible deploy malfunction. Can you please help me. Thank you.
Mar 22, 2024
STEERING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
My car started making a funny sound above the right tire on the way to my hair apt on March 13, 2023. On the drive home from the appointment, my front axle came off in the middle of the expressway at 9:30 PM on 1-10 in Houston, Texas. I was so scared that I was going to die. Cars were coming so fast and swerving all around me. I turned on my emergency flashers and called 911 immediately. I don't think that I have ever felt so helpless and panicked in my entire life. By the grace of god, I was not hit and tow trucks came within 10-15 minutes. They told me that most people get hit and that I was lucky to not be hit at 80 miles per hour at a dead standstill. We towed my car to the nearest repair shop where they confirmed that the plastic u-clamps had deteriorated which caused the front axle to become detached. Insurance would not cover it. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that Mercedes had recalled over 38,000 small SUVS for the exact same issue, but that my Mercedes was not a part of the recall. When I filed the complaint with Mercedes, they said that they would not cover the cost to repair it because my vehicle was not a part of the recall. I don't want what happened to me to happen to anyone else ever. I believe that Mercedes is aware of this issue and does not want to take responsibility.
Apr 03, 2023
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the brake fluid and brake warning lights illuminated, and shortly after adding brake fluid the warning lights remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the rear brake lines were corroded, causing brake fluid to leak and the brake lines needed to be replaced. In addition, the vehicle there was rusting of the rear subframe. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 94,000. The consumer stated the repair for this vehicle was very expensive being as though it was purchased only 1 year ago.
Nov 18, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
Transmission goes into park at low speed when braking.
Jun 21, 2021
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
TAKATA RECALL PARTS ARE NOT IN AND HAVE BEEN WAITING OVER A YEAR. MY WIFE AND I ARE VERY CONCERNED ON SAFETY AND RESALE VALUE OF THE CAR. MY WHEEL COVERS ARE ALSO RUSTING AND I WAS PROMISED REPLACEMENTS FOR IT
Jun 22, 2019
STRUCTURE
1 complaint
THE CLEAR COAT IS BUBBLING AND PEALING OFF. WHEN I CALLED THE FACTORY ABOUT THIS ISSUE THEY SAID I WOULD NEED TO GO THROUGH THE DEALER. I CALLED TWO LOCALE DEALERS AND THEY BOTH SAID THEY DO NOT DO ANY BODY OR PAINT WORK . THEY DEFERRED ME TO LOCAL BODY SHOPS THEY HAVE NO TIES TO THE FACTOY.
Mar 14, 2019
AIR BAGS,SEATS
1 complaint
PASSENGER SEAT SENSOR MALFUNCTION AT 43K MILES CAUSING AIRBAG MALFUNCTION LIGHT COMES UP OR SENSING A PASSENGER WHILE NO ONE IS SITTING
Nov 14, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
VEHICLE HAS ~ 20K MILES, BROUGHT INTO DEALER BECAUSE ABS LIGHT WENT ON WHILE DRIVING SAYING SYSTEM WAS INOPERATIVE. DEALER THEN FOUND GAS TANK LEAK, AND WOULD NOT LET ME LEAVE THE DEALER, BECAUSE OF THE SAFETY HAZARD. SEARCH SHOWS RECALL FOR EARLIER MODEL YEAR 2012 WITH SAME ISSUE, BUT DEALER SAYS NO RECALL FOR 2013. ABS SENSORS ARE ALSO MALFUNCTIONING WHILE DRIVING. TWO SEPARATE INCIDENTS FOR ABS SENSORS. TWO BEEN REPLACED WITHIN ONE WEEK!
Jul 20, 2018
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GLK350. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THERE WAS A WHINING NOISE COMING FROM THE DASHBOARD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE NOISE WAS HEARD WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING 65 TO 70 MPH. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE AIR BAG MIGHT NOT DEPLOY IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CARMAX (21939 SOUTHWEST FWY, RICHMOND, TX 77469, (281) 232-7180) WHERE AN APPOINTMENT WAS SCHEDULED FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V043000 (AIR BAGS). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 47,000.
Apr 11, 2018
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHEN I'M DRIVING THE CAR, THE CAR WILL AUTOMATICALLY SHIFTS FROM D(DRIVE) TO P(PARK). IT HAPPENS ESPECIALLY WHEN I HIT THE BRAKE. I WENT TO DEALER FOR THE SAME ISSUE TWICE, AND IT SEEMS THEY STILL CANNOT FIND THE PROBLEM AND FIX IT. THIS IS A LIFE-THREATENING ISSUE. JUST IMAGE THE CAR STOPS IMMEDIATELY AT THE MIDDLE OF HIGHWAY. WE ARE LUCKY NOT HIT BY THE CAR BEHIND US. IT HAPPENED TWICE ON HIGHWAY I-70.
Nov 19, 2017
STEERING,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
ON MAY-JUNE 2016 THE VEHICLE WAS SHOWING A WARNING LIGHT RELATED TO A MALFUNCTION OF THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT, THE DEALERSHIP FOUND THROUGH A VEHICLE INSPECTION THAT IT WAS RELATED TO THE STEERING MODULE. ONE WAS ORDERED. THE AIRBAGS WERE DISABLE FOR A MONTH, PLACING AT RISK MY WIFE'S LIFE. THE PROBLEM SEEMS TO BE FIXED BUT THE AIRBAGS NOW COULD BE DISABLE OR WILL MALFUNCTION IN THE FUTURE. SINCE THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE HAS TAKATA AIRBAGS, I WOULD LIKE TO REQUEST THE REPLACEMENTS OF ALL AIRBAGS, INSTEAD OF A TRIAL/WAITING IF THIS WILL MALFUNCTION IN THE NEAR FUTURE, WITH A RISK OF A PREVENTABLE DEATH OF ME OF MY WIFE, AS WE BOTH ARE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE. I APPRECIATE PLACING HUMAN LIFES INSTEAD OF MONETARY GAIN.
Nov 13, 2017
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
MY 2013 GLK350 WAS STATIONARY AND I WAS PARKED IN MY PARENTS DRIVEWAY IN ILLINOIS. IT WAS NIGHTTIME AND I WENT TO GO CLOSE THE PANORAMIC ROOF SINCE I WAS GOING INSIDE AND IT WAS LIGHTLY RAINING. TEMPS OUTSIDE WERE MILD SINCE IT WAS MAY 27, 2016. WHEN I WENT TO CLOSE THE ROOF I HEARD A CRUNCH SOUND BUT DID NOT NOTICE IT WAS SHATTERED. I CLOSED THE SUN BLIND AND IT WASN'T UNTIL I OPENED THE BLIND THE NEXT TIME MAY 28, 2016. MY SISTER AND I BOTH LOOKED UP AND NOTICED THE GLASS WAS SHATTERED. THE REST OF MY FAMILY ALSO NOTED THE DAMAGE ALSO AND WE TOOK INCLUDED PICTURES. I CALLED MB USA AT 800 367.6372. ADAM THE REP I SPOKE TO SAID I NEEDED TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP TO SEE IF IT'S PART OF A RECALL BUT WHEN THEY LOOKED IT UP THERE WAS NO RECALL FOR MY VIN?? I FOLLOWED UP WITH VANESSA AT THE 800 AND SHE SAID THE SAME THAT SVC GUY DID AT DEALERSHIP. I ESCALATED MY COMPLAINT FOR RESOLUTION, NO OBJECTS OR ROCKS, ETC CAME IN CONTACT WITH THE GLASS AND THE TRACK WAS CLEAR OF DEBRIS. I LOOKED ON INTERNET AND NOTED SEVERAL SIMILAR INCIDENTS OF THE GLASS SHATTERING AND SOME WITH GLASS EXPLODING OUT OR IMPLODING??! MB IS NOT CLAIMING RESPONSIBILITY WHICH I DO NOT UNDERSTAND! I HAVE ESCALATED AGAIN AND I AM STILL WAITING TO CONNECT WITH MB USA TO DISCUSS SINCE THIS IS CLEARLY A DEFECT. IT DOESN'T MATTER WHETHER YOU'RE STATIONARY OR MOVING THIS IS A SERIOUS HAZARD. I HAD TO GET THIS REPAIRED AND COST ME UPWARDS OF $1600 OUT OF POCKET.. BUT HAS COST UP TO $2K PER INCIDENT. COME TO FIND OUT THIS IS NOT ONLY HAPPENING TO OTHER CAR MODELS AND SO FAR THERE ARE COMPLAINS FILED AGAINST KIA AND NISSAN.
Jun 04, 2016
STEERING,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
THE SUNROOF ON MY 2013 MERCEDES BENZ GLK 350 SPONTANEOUSLY EXPLODED WITH NO WARNING. NOTHING HIT THE ROOF OR ANY OTHER PART OF THE CAR. THE WEATHER WAS ABOUT 36 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT, NOT TOO COLD, NOT TOO HOT. THERE WAS A LOUD BANG (LIKE THE SOUND OF A GUNSHOT) FOLLOWED BY 5 - 10 MINUTES OF CRACKLING AS THE SUNROOF GLASS BROKE INTO HUNDREDS OF PIECES. IT APPEARS TO BE THE TOP LAYER OF DOUBLE-PANED GLASS, AS THE GLASS DID NOT FALL INTO THE CAR. I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 35 MPH AT THE TIME. THERE WAS NOTHING UNUSUAL THAT WOULD HAVE CAUSED THIS. *TR
Nov 25, 2014
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
I JUST LEFT MY HOUSE AND DROVE APPROXIMATELY 2 MILES. I WAS STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN AND AS I MADE A TURN AND ACCELERATED, I FELT A DRAG AND THEN A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM UNDER THE FRONT OF THE CAR. I THEN SMELLED SMOKE AND SAW BLACK SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE CAR. I PULLED OVER AND GOT OUT OF THE CAR AND SAW FLAMES UNDER THE FRONT OF THE CAR. IN A MATTER OF MINUTES THE CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. 911 WAS CALLED AND THE FIRST RESPONDERS, A POLICEMAN AND A PERSON FROM THE ASSOCIATED FIRE PROTECTION, ATTEMPTED TO EXTINGUISH THE FLAMES WITH A DRY CHEMICAL FIRE EXTINGUISHER WITHOUT SUCCESS. BY THE TIME THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED, I WAS TAKEN TO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT TO COMPLETE A POLICE REPORT SO I DON'T KNOW HOW LONG IT TOOK TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE BUT THE END RESULT IS THAT THE CAR IS JUST A BURNED OUT SHELL AND WAS TOTALED. *TR
Aug 19, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
VEHICLE AUTOMATICALLY LOCKED LEAVING MY 3 YEAR OLD IN THE VEHICLE STRAPPED TO HER CARSEAT. THE KEY FOB WAS IN THE VEHICLE AT THE TIME. MY WIFE LEFT THE KEYS IN HER PURSE SINCE THEY ARE BLUETOOTH KEYS AND PLACED THEM INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND WALKED AROUND TO DRIVERS SIDE TO GET IN. VEHICLE SELF LOCKED WHILE SHE WAS WALKING AROUND TO DRIVER'S SIDE, LEAVING CHILD TRAPPED IN VEHICLE IN 100 DEGREE WEATHER. CALLED MERCEDES BENZ OF AMERCIA, RELAYED THE PROBLEM. PHONE REP "[XXX]" SAID THIS HAPPENS FROM TIME TO TIME AND "THEY" DO NOT KNOW WHY. TALKED TO MERCEDES BENZ OF SAN ANTONIO, TX. THEY SAID THEY HAVE NEVER HEARD OF THIS HAPPENING AND SAID IT WOULD BE A $130 DIAGNOSTIC CHARGE TO ANALYZE THE PROBLEM. WAS INFORMED AT TIME OF PURCHASE OF VEHICLE IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO LOCK KEYS IN VEHICLE UNLESS LOCK BUTTON IS DEPRESSED ON KEYLESS START KEY FOB. THIS IS A MFG DEFECT IN MY OPINION AND MB OF USA NEEDS TO FIX THIS PROBLEM BEFORE A DEATH OCCURS. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Jul 21, 2014
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
TWICE I'VE HAD THE ISSUE WHERE NONE OF MY LIGHTS WORK WHILE I'VE BEEN DRIVING. NOT SURE ABOUT THE HEADLIGHTS, HOWEVER BOTH TIMES I HIT MY TURN SIGNAL TO TURN (DOESN'T MATTER RIGHT OR LEFT) AND THERE IS NO INDICATOR VISIBLE ON MY DASHBOARD. ALSO THERE IS NO TICKING/SIGNALING NOISE. WHEN I'VE PULLED OVER AND HAD MY PASSENGER GET OUT AND LOOK AT MY REAR OR FRONT TURN SIGNALS NOTHING WORKS, PERIOD. I DID MENTION THIS TO THE DEALERSHIP THE FIRST TIME AND THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING. I'VE NOT BOTHERED A 2ND TIME SINCE THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING THE FIRST TIME. TO SOLVE THIS ISSUE; I HAVE TO POWER MY CAR OFF FOR A FEW SECONDS, THEN START MY ENGINE BACK UP. BOTH TIMES THIS HAS SOLVED MY TURN SIGNAL ISSUE. NOT SURE IF MY FLASHERS HAVE THE ISSUE OR NOT WHEN THIS HAPPENS. KNOWING ME I WOULD THINK I WOULD HAVE CHECKED IT, HOWEVER I CAN'T RECALL. *JS
Apr 30, 2014
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
I NOTICED SINCE MONDAY THE 20TH OF JANUARY, THE CAR WHILE DRIVING FORWARD WOULD SUDDENLY GO INTO REVERSE MAKING A GRINDING SOUND. THIS HAPPENED TWICE IN TRAFFIC AND, COULD BE DANGEROUS IF IT HAD HAPPENED IN AN INTERSECTION. IN ADDITION TO THIS MALFUNCTION, IT QUITE OFTEN SLIPS INTO NEUTRAL WHEN I SLOWED FOR ANY REASON; LIKE, TO GIVE WAY OR PREPARING TO GO INTO A PARKING SPACE. THESE MALFUNCTIONS COULD BE DANGEROUS AND, MAY VERY WELL CAUSE MAJOR ACCIDENTS IF NOT CORRECTED. *TR
Jan 23, 2014
VISIBILITY
1 complaint
HELLO, I WOULD LIKE TO SHARE A SAFETY CONCERN AND INCIDENT REGARDING THE SUNROOF OF A NEWLY PURCHASED MERCEDES BENZ 2013 GLK 350 4 MATIC. AS I WAS MAKING MY DRIVE BACK TO VA ON I 85 HEADED TOWARDS COMPERS/ GAFFNEY, NC AT APPROXIMATELY 4:23 PM ON 27 DEC 13, I HEARD A VERY LOUD POP AND SHATTERED GLASS SOUND ON MY RIGHT PASSENGER SIDE. I CAREFULLY MOVED OVER TO THE FAR RIGHT LANE TO SLOW DOWN AND CONDUCTED A QUICK ASSESSMENT OF THE ISSUE. NOTHING SEEMED OUT OF PLACE FROM WHAT I COULD TELL ON THE INSIDE. I HEARD WIND LIKE NOISES FROM ABOVE AND LOOKED UP AND THERE IT WAS. MY SUNROOF HAD SHATTERED. I COULD SEE WHAT APPEARED TO BE LIKE TINY PINHOLES. MY SHADE WAS COVERED SO NO GLASS ENTERED THE CAR. I TOOK PICTURES AT THE NEAREST REST STOP APPROXIMATELY 4.5 MILES UP. I IMMEDIATELY PHONED MERCEDES BENZ ROADSIDE ABOUT THE ISSUE. THE MB ROADSIDE AGENT INFORMED ME TO CHECK TO SEE IF IT WAS DRIVABLE AND TO CALL MB SERVICE OF ALEXANDRIA, VA TO TAKE IT IN SINCE I WAS HEADED BACK. I CONTACTED MY ADVISOR AT MB OF ALEXANDRIA VA ON THE ISSUE AND WAS TOLD THAT THE CAR WILL BE DRIVABLE AND TO TAKE IT INTO THEM FIRST THING ON SATURDAY, 09:00, 28 DECEMBER 2013. I STILL HAD APPROXIMATELY 6 HOURS REMAINING OF TRAVEL TIME. AS FAR AS I COULD TELL, THERE WERE NO OTHER ISSUES WITH THE SUNROOF AS IT REMAINED IN TACT FOR THE REMAINDER OF MY TRIP. SO NOW, AS OF SATURDAY, 28 DECEMBER 2013, THE SUV IS AT MB OF ALEXANDRIA. THE SAFETY CONCERN IS THAT THE GLK 350 2013 4 MATIC SUNROOF CAN SHATTER AND CREATE A LOUD POPPING SOUND AS IF A TIRE HAD BLOWN FOR NO APPARENT REASON WHILE DRIVING ON THE HWY AT A SPEED OF 70 MPH WHICH WAS MY APPROXIMATE SPEED ON I-85. MY QUICK THINKING AVOIDED AN ACCIDENT. I RECOMMEND NHTSA TO CONDUCT AN ASSESSMENT REGARDING SUNROOFS SHATTERING ON THE HWY FOR THE MB GLK 350 4 MATIC 2013 MODEL. THANK YOU *TR
Dec 28, 2013
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GLK-Class have?
The 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GLK-Class currently has 143 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GLK-Class?
The most common problems reported for the 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GLK-Class are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GLK-Class problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GLK-Class comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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