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2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Consumer Reviews

2.6 out of 5 stars
30 reviews

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$43,512

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1 out of 5 stars

Had one week now dead.

Bruce, 05/11/2023
updated 11/20/2023
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class GLC 300 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
62 of 66 people found this review helpful

Owned a 2016 for 4 years loved it. Only issue tire wear. So just purchased new 2023 glc. Drove one week loved it until wouldn’t turn over. Warnings on display 12 volt system needs repair. Every other warning came up also. Couldn’t get out of park to neutral to load it on flat bed. Finally got it to the Mercedes dealership in ft. Pierce Florida, has had the car for 3 days now and they have no idea what is the problem. Purchased my first Mercedes in 1973. Never had this kind of issue. Could this be computer board software related? Had to check box mild hybrid, it is not Update: service had for one week. Had to consult with an engineer don’t know from what country.Conclusion the battery was not grounded properly. Had to upgrade software also. Hope this problem has been put to bed.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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2 out of 5 stars

Quality Control Could Be an Issue

CBB, 09/10/2023
updated 03/13/2024
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class GLC 300 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
28 of 29 people found this review helpful

I bought in July 2023 a 2023 GLC 300 4Matic with Pinnacle Trim, AMG line w/ night package, Driver Assistance package, and Panoramic roof. I was relatively happy driving it for a few days until a whining sound started to be very noticeable in the 7th & 8th gears. I bought it back to the dealership and the technician was very good in his preliminary diagnosis that it could be coming from the rear differential. His initial diagnosis was confirmed when they had it closely examined at the shop. Very disappointing for a brand new luxury car and a Mercedes Benz at that. They ordered a replacement rear differential from Germany. The car was in the shop for about 2 weeks. Unfortunately, the whining sound is still there albeit not as loud as before but it also now shows at the 4th gear in addition to the 7th & 8th gears. There are also other things that I am not happy with: (1) wireless charger does not always work; (2) camera mode comes on at traffic lights taking over the screen; not good if you are using the navigation; (3) camera makes a loud opening or closing sound even if the camera is not needed (according to the technician it was designed by MBenz as such possibly to prevent it from freezing during winter; but it is summer at this time); (4) Panoramic roof does not have a solid inside cover. Sunlight filters in through the woven inside cover; (5) The wiper movement is not smooth. It is jerky. There were also 2 instances where I got a message that the 12V battery needs charging (this happens on a brand new car?). The car has a lot of "bells & whistles", which is probably good, or bad if they are not all working properly. The ride, however, is luxurious and quiet. I noted that there is a little lag on acceleration, and there is no notable difference between comfort and sport modes. This was my first Mercedes as I have been driving BMWs for 15 years. I probably should not have traded in my 2019 BMW X3. I wanted a newer car and unfortunately because of the semi-conductor supply issues some options that I had in my 2019 BMW X3 were not available in the 2023 model. I should have waited for the 2024 X3 model in case they would all be available by then. Update: 3/12/2024 I have had 4 instances where the car does not start. Different warning signs keep on flashing (12V On board electrical system service required; service required, do not change transmission position; active parking assist & parktronic in operative; active blind spot assist inoperative; active brake assist functions currently limited). The car cannot be locked at this stage. I had to wait for some time (30 minutes to 1-3 hrs.) before the car eventually was able to start. The car dealership cannot seem to find the cause. They informed me on 2/1/2024 when the car was last checked that a system update was in development but to-date there is no news on this. There is also a recall on this model involving the fuse box that needs to be replaced (in which systems might become inoperable, the car might lose propulsion without warning, or the instrument cluster might be impaired increasing the risk of crash & injuries; also the risk of fire cannot be ruled out). As previously mentioned, the rear differential was replaced, but the whining sound is now again getting louder and prominent in more number of gears. I have never owned or leased a car where I have experienced so many issues and inconveniences. For a brand new and luxury brand at that, it is a huge mistake, disappointment, and regret as to why I ever switched brand from BMW. Stay away from this car.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Impressive MPG, comfortable, quiet and smooth.

Peter R, 09/25/2023
updated 06/03/2024
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class GLC 300 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
47 of 50 people found this review helpful

I traded in my 2016 Lincoln MKX, which I absolutely loved, for a new GLC, mainly because I wanted better gas mileage than the 21MPG I was getting with the MKX. That was two months ago and I've put less than 1K miles on the GLC since I purchased it, so this review is based on that limited experience. Overall, I've been pleased with the GLC, although it has taken time to adjust to its quirks. I read lots of bad reviews from other buyers, so I was a little hesitant to make the purchase, but I figured the new car warranty will cover any defects, at least for the first four years. I purchased the GLC over its rivals for four primary reasons: 1. I had never owned a Mercedes, and at 62 years old, I figured it's about time. 2. The $57K sticker price was similar to other cars I had tested, including a Kia Sorrento plug-in hybrid and a Mazda CX-90 PHEV. 3. After three test drives in the GLC, I really liked the comfort, the size and the elegant look, inside and out. 4, The GLC had a higher EPA rating than any of its rivals. And, that's where I'll start. So far, I've been averaging over 30MPG, which is outstanding, and much higher than the EPA rating of 26MPG combined. I normally drive in ECO mode and keep my speed under 70MPH. On a recent two-hour drive, I was actually getting 37MPG! The GLC uses a mild hybrid system that works smoothly and efficiently. You can take your foot off the accelerator and the hybrid system will let the car coast at a steady speed, which happens smoothly and quietly. The overall stop/start system is refined and unobtrusive, simply one of the best I've ever experienced. The seat comfort and driving position are also top-notch. Despite the compact size, there's plenty of elbow, leg and head room in the GLC. Another highlight is the Burmester sound system, which is impressive in its rich sound and dynamic range. The dash displays are colorful and vivid with distinct markings, and are visually appealing. The ambient lighting is beautiful and highly customizable, but mine is supposed to have the "enhanced" version (the Exclusive trim) but it was deleted, probably due to a chip issue. That's a bit of a bummer. So, there's a lot I like about the GLC. As for dislikes, the first one I'll mention is the coarse-sounding engine. It actually sounds like a diesel at idle from the outside, although it's very quiet inside. It will probably prove to be a great engine, but it sounds loud and unrefined. The interior is mostly beautiful, but there is lots of cheap looking black plastic, which is a shame in an otherwise gorgeous interior. My biggest complaint is with the easy entry/exit system. On any other vehicle I've owned with this feature, the seat powers back when the engine is turned off and/or the driver's door is opened. Not on the Mercedes. I'm 5'8", so I have the seat somewhat close to the steering wheel. When the easy entry/exit system is activated, the seat actually moves forward a few inches, rather than rearward. I thought it was faulty, but when I consulted the owner's manual, it said the car will determine whether the seat should be moved forward or rearward based on where it is located on the track. The reasoning is that someone sitting in the rear seat behind the driver might be injured if the driver's seat were to move back and impede their space. I know, dumb, right? It's very annoying not to be able to use that feature. The only other somewhat negative I'll mention is that there isn't any special lighting when approaching the car at night. My Lincoln had a "welcome" lighting feature that was pretty and elegant. There are definitely features about the Lincoln that I miss. But, with time, I'm growing fonder of the GLC. 05/31/24 Update: After 10 months of ownership, and 5,300 miles, I sold the GLC to a local dealership. I really liked the GLC, but I didn't love it. Some of its quirks were maddening, such as trying to master the volume control. There are two "touch pads" to control the volume and I could never figure out how to adjust it by a small degree. It's a poorly designed control. Also, I found myself accidentally engaging the touch controls on the steering wheel quite frequently. I also didn't like the fact that you could hear the rear camera activating (it's hidden until it's activated) when slowing down or when at a stop. It was kind of annoying. Otherwise, the car was nice. I never had any serious problems with it, although it did have three recalls during that 10 month period. But, the services were covered under warranty and the dealer always provided a nice loaner car. I stand by my initial review. The car was very comfortable, quiet, and fuel-efficient, with a phenomenal sound system! Overall, owning the GLC was a good experience, but I don't think I would buy another Mercedes anytime soon, at least until they improve the controls.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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3 out of 5 stars

Dead in the water/second chance

Reann, 06/09/2023
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class GLC 300 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
45 of 48 people found this review helpful

I bought this car on April 26 and on the third day it died. Lights flashing, alarms going off. Called my salesperson and I agreed to leave it for an hour-well-it started right up. Then 10 days later-it wouldn’t stop with the warnings and lights and I called for a tow truck. 3 hours later-all the lights and warnings were still going off. Tow truck driver arrived at 1130 and had to jump start the car to get it out of the garage. They had my car for 8 days and I got it back on a Thursday evening. Friday when I went to leave work. All the lights and warnings came on again. Couldn’t do anything with the car. After an hour of waiting for the tow truck, k started it and it was fine. I drove it to the dealer and they have had it for 2 weeks low. I have been without my brand new car for 32 days and counting. I have asked the dealership and MBUSA for a refund. They keep pushing back asking me to be patient. Frustrated for sure!! Update, dealer gave me a full refund and yes, I purchased another one. I love the car!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

First 30 days

My Fifth MB , 06/13/2023
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class GLC 300 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)
35 of 37 people found this review helpful

Comfortable , good ride , good mileage ….wireless charger does not work Could not start the car twice ….now car is in the shop for 9 days ….Germany involved …looks like a lemon

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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