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2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Gas
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
2 EPA-rated configurations
Data refreshed 2026-10-26
F
Safety Signal
39 / 100 from the NHTSA recall record
Recalls3 critical 12
Complaints10 crash · 2 fire · 6 injured reported 141
Crash ratingnot rated by NHTSA —
Fuel economybest combined, EPA 24 mpg
202720262025202420232022202120202019201820172016

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class is sold in the U.S. as a gas midsize SUV with 2 EPA-rated configurations. The most efficient version, the GLC300, is EPA-rated at 24 mpg combined. NHTSA lists 12 recall campaigns for this model year, 3 rated critical, which gives it a Safety Signal grade of F. Owners have filed 141 complaints, most often about the engine.

Mercedes-Benz GLC — photograph via Wikimedia Commons
Mercedes-Benz GLC · Photo: Alexander Migl · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Specs & fuel economy

Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov
ConfigurationPowertrainDriveEngine / motorCityHwyCombAnnual fuel*
GLC300GasFWD2.0L 4-cyl turbo222824$3,400
GLC300 4maticGas4WD2.0L 4-cyl turbo212824$3,400

*EPA estimate at 15,000 miles/year at EPA reference fuel and electricity prices. fueleconomy.gov record ids: 37159, 37160.

Emissions & certification

Source: EPA emission certificates
ConfigurationSmog ratingEmission standardWhere it can be sold newSmartWay
GLC300, GLC300 4matic5–7 / 10Bin 5 / LEV-III ULEV70All 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standards—

Certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S.

The smog rating scores tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, 1 (worst) to 10 (best), and is comparable only within a model year. The standard is the federal bin or California tier the configuration was certified to. Both come from the EPA certificate behind the window sticker.

Specifications filed with NHTSA

Source: NHTSA vPIC

Dimensions Exterior

Body styleSport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Doors4
GVWR classClass 1A: 3,000 lb or less (1,360 kg or less)

Engine Basics

Cylinders4
Displacement2 L
Engine configurationIn-Line

Engine Output

Horsepower241 hp

Fuel Economy

FuelGasoline

Filed by the manufacturer with NHTSA under the federal vehicle-identification rule and decoded from the VIN pattern — not a manufacturer press kit, so it describes the configurations we could identify rather than every trim (seen: GLC300, GLC300 Base-4M). Figures for the trim you are looking at may differ.

Dimensions & weight

Source: Transport Canada
Length183.5 in
Width (body, without mirrors)74.0 in
Height64.6 in
Wheelbase113.0 in
Track, front63.8 in
Track, rear63.8 in
Curb weight3,825 lb
Weight distribution, front/rear53/47

Measured by Transport Canada for its Canadian Vehicle Specifications database, which covers the North American versions of each model — here one configuration: 300 4Matic 4-door SUV. Where a range is shown, those versions differ. Width is the body without mirrors, which is why it can read narrower than a brochure figure. Before we used it we checked it against the US manufacturer press kits we hold (27 Sep 2026): wheelbase agreed within 1% on every vehicle we could compare, length on 98%, and the curb weight fell inside the manufacturer's range on 96%. Source dataset. Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada. Licence.

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Factory warranty running out?

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class is in the years where transmission, electronics and drivetrain repairs land on the owner. What an extended plan does and does not cover is worth reading before a dealer quotes you one.

What to check before you buy →

Affiliate disclosure: some links on this page are affiliate links. If you request a quote or buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Nothing on this page changes because of it.

Recalls (12)

Source: NHTSA recall database
▲high

Structure

2,976 vehicles 41% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2020 C-Class, CLA, GLA, S-Class, GLC, and GLE vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair, allowing the front panel to detach from the vehicle. Risk A detached roof panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the front panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 2, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on, March 22,2024, and August 2, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 21V-197.
NHTSA campaign 23V854000 reported Dec 15, 2023 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Structure

2021070010
15,096 vehicles 64% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2020 C300 Coupe, C43 Coupe AMG, C43 AMG, 2015-2020 C300, GLA250, 2016-2018 C350e, CLA45 Coupe AMG, 2015 C400, S65 AMG, 2015-2019 C63 AMG, 2016 C450, 2015-2016 GLA45 AMG, S600, 2016-2020 GLC300, 2017-2019 GLC43 AMG, GLE43 Coupe AMG, 2014-2019 CLA250 Coupe, 2014-2015 CLA45 AMG, 2018 GLC63 AMG, 2014-2017 S550, 2018-2020 S450, 2016-2019 GLE63 Coupe AMG, 2016 GLE450 Coupe, 2014-2020 S63 AMG, 2018-2019 S560, and 2019 GLC350e vehicles equipped with a panoramic sunroof. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair. Risk The adhesive bonding of the front panel might deteriorate, possibly causing the front panel to detach from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Mercedes-Benz dealer will remove the bonded panel and will install a new front panel by following the detailed repair instructions and using the approved primer, cleaner and adhesive, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021 and October 26, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
NHTSA campaign 21V197000 reported Mar 19, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Electrical System

2021020025
1,292,258 vehicles 95% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash. Risk Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.
NHTSA campaign 21V058000 reported Feb 5, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Communication

2019120008
24,226 vehicles 78% reported repaired built Jan 20, 2012 – Oct 6, 2016
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2017 vehicles due to a software fault that may cause the date and time for the emergency call system (eCall) to differ from the actual date and time, potentially relaying an inaccurate vehicle location. For a full list of the affected models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2019/RMISC-19V787-4620.pdf Risk An inaccurate vehicle location may delay emergency responders, increasing the risk of injury. Fix MBUSA has initiated an Over the Air (OTA) remote update. MBUSA will also notify owners, and dealers will check software for a successful OTA or update the communication module software as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 23, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019120008.
NHTSA campaign 19V787000 reported Nov 1, 2019 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Structure

2018100002
4,702 vehicles 83% reported repaired built Mar 6, 2015 – May 31, 2018
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 and GLC300 4Matic, 2018 GLC350e and GLC63 AMG 4Matic and 2017-2018 GLC43 AMG 4Matic vehicles. The seat belt latch plates (the parts that insert into the buckles) for the outboard rear seats may retract into the interior paneling, preventing the occupants from being able to use the seat belts. Risk If the rear seat passengers cannot fasten their seat belts, they have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install felt strips between the C-pillar and rear side paneling, free of charge. The recall began November 2, 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2018100002.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 18V683000 reported Oct 1, 2018 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Structure

2018030012
121,858 vehicles 86% reported repaired built Mar 6, 2015 – Mar 8, 2018
Problem Mercedes Benz USA LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2018 GLC43 AMG, 2016-2018 GLC300 4Matic, 2016-2018 GLC300, 2018 GLC63 AMG 4Matic, and 2018 GLC350e 4Matic vehicles. The seat belt latch plates (the parts that insert into the buckles) for the outboard rear seats may retract into the interior paneling, preventing the occupants from being able to use the seat belts. Risk If the rear seat passengers cannot fasten their seat belts, they have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install a buffer to the c-pillar paneling, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 14, 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2018030012.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 18V177000 reported Mar 15, 2018 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Exterior Lighting

8,134 vehicles 96% reported repaired built Oct 9, 2014 – Nov 19, 2016
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016-2017 GLC300, GLC300 4MATIC and GLC43 4MATIC vehicles. These vehicles may have misadjusted headlights, possibly resulting in the low beam headlights insufficiently illuminating the roadway. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." Risk An insufficiently illuminated roadway may increase the risk of a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the headlamp adjustment, adjusting it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on January 12, 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 17V819000 reported Dec 18, 2017 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Air Bags

2017110011
495,290 vehicles 81% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling these vehicles: 2014-2018 CLA250, CLA250 4Matic, CLA45 AMG 4Matic, 2015-2018 GLA250, GLA250 4Matic, GLA45 AMG 4Matic, C300 4Matic, C63S AMG, 2012-2014 C250, C350, C300 4Matic, E550 4Matic, 2013-2014 C63 AMG, 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, 2013-2015 C350 4Matic Coupe, GLK250 4Matic BlueTec, GLK350, GLK350 4Matic, 2016-2017 C350e, C43 AMG, 2015 C400 4Matic, 2016-2018 C63 AMG, GLC300, GLC300 4Matic, 2017-2018 C300 Coupe, C300 4Matic Coupe, C43 AMG, C63 AMG Coupe, C63S AMG Coupe, C300 Cabriolet, C300 4Matic Cabriolet, C43 AMG Cabriolet, C63 AMG Cabriolet, C63S AMG Cabriolet, GLC300 4Matic Coupe, GLC43 AMG, GLC43 AMG Coupe, 2014 E350 Risk If the driver air bag inadvertently deploys, it can increase the risk of injury and a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will add sufficient grounding to the steering components, free of charge. The recall began in December 6, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 17V627000 reported Oct 6, 2017 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

51 vehicles 86% reported repaired built Jan 1, 2008 – Jan 1, 2017
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 AMG GT-S, GLC300, CLA250 and GLE300d 4Matic vehicles, 2013 C250, E350 BlueTec and G63 AMG vehicles, 2008-2014 C300 vehicles, 2013-2014 C300 4Matic and ML350 4Matic vehicles, 2009 C350 vehicles, 2014 CLS550, E350 4Matic, E350 Coupe 4Matic, E350 Wagon 4Matic, GLK350 and SL550 vehicles, 2012 CLS550 4Matic vehicles, 2012-2016 E350 vehicles, 2016-2017 GL450 4Matic vehicles, 2012-2014 ML350 4Matic BlueTec vehicles, 2015 S550, S550 4Matic and C300 4Matic Sedan vehicles, 2015-2016 C300 Sedan vehicles, and 2017 SL63 AMG vehicles. Various control units on these vehicles may have been updated with incorrect software, potentially affecting the co Risk If the air bags do not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, there would be an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update software in the affected control units, free of charge. The recall began April 21, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 17V177000 reported Mar 14, 2017 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Engine And Engine Cooling

2017080002
307,629 vehicles 99% reported repaired built Feb 1, 2014 – Feb 1, 2017
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 C300 4Matic, C300, CLA250, CLA250 4Matic and CLA45 AMG vehicles, 2017 C300 4Matic Cabrio, C300 4Matic Coupe, C300 Cabrio, C300 Coupe, E300, E300 4Matic, E400 4Matic Wagon, E43 AMG 4Matic, GLA250, GLA250 4Matic and GLC300 4Matic Coupe vehicles and 2016 C350e and GLC300 vehicles and 2016-2017 C450 4Matic AMG Sport and GLC300 4Matic vehicles. In the event that the engine or transmission cannot turn over, the starting current limiter may overheat from the repeated attempts of the starter motor attempting to start the vehicle. Risk If the starting current limiter overheats, the surrounding components can melt, increasing the risk of a fire. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fuse in the electrical line to the starter, free of charge. The recall began August 31, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2017080002.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 17V114000 reported Feb 23, 2017 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Electronic Stability Control (Esc)

2016090002
62 vehicles 94% reported repaired built Feb 8, 2016 – May 18, 2016
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2016 GLC 300 SUV, GLC 300 4Matic SUV, C300 Sedan and C300 4Matic vehicles manufactured February 8, 2016, to May 18, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) control unit that may have been damaged before being installed. Risk A damaged ESP control unit may inadvertently activate the stability control altering the vehicle's path. Additionally, the electronic parking brake may not function. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ESP Hydraulic control units, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in October 2016. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 16V603000 reported Aug 16, 2016 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Steering

888 vehicles 95% reported repaired built Jun 16, 2015 – Nov 3, 2015
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2016 GLC 300 vehicles manufactured June 16, 2015, to November 3, 2015, and 2016 GLC 300 4Matic vehicles manufactured July 16, 2015, to November 3, 2015. The steering columns in the affected vehicles may have the wiring harness for the switch module incorrectly routed. As a result, the harness may chafe and the air bag may unexpectedly deploy or the engine may stall. Risk An unexpected air bag deployment or engine stall increases the risk of a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wiring harnesses, properly rerouting them as necessary. Any damaged harnesses will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on April 22, 2016. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
NHTSA campaign 16V146000 reported Mar 10, 2016 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →

These are vehicle campaigns — the ones the automaker filed against this model. NHTSA also records equipment recalls, filed by a parts maker against a component (a tyre, a child seat, an aftermarket part), and those are not listed here or counted above. nhtsa.gov/recalls shows both for a VIN.

NHTSA defect investigations

Air Bags:Frontal:Passenger Side:Inflator Module — Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture open

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf. Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a subst

Opened Sep 17, 2021 · action EA21002 · the investigation’s page →

Structure:Body:Roof And Pillars — Front Roof Panel Detachment closed

On January 8, 2021, after ongoing review with Mercedes Benz, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE21-001 to assess allegations of front roof panel detachments while driving at highway speeds in certain 2015 Mercedes-Benz (Mercedes) C-Class vehicles. The subject front roof panel is a stationary panel composed of polycarbonate and is attached to the vehicle via adhesive at the time of manufacture. The panel is found on subject vehicles equipped with panoramic sunroofs. Over time, the subject panels may exhibit cosmetic degradation leading to replacement of the panel, a procedure which entails: removal of the old panel and adh

Opened Jan 8, 2021 · closed Oct 14, 2021 · action PE21001 · the investigation’s page →

Whether any of this applies to one specific GLC-Class

A campaign covers a build range, not a model year, so two identical-looking cars from 2016 can differ. Both of these check a VIN against the manufacturer’s own list, free, in about ten seconds. Mercedes-Benz publishes its own lookup because federal rule 49 CFR 573.15 requires it to, and to keep it current to within seven days.

Hear about a recall before the letter does

The manufacturer’s letter is the last step of a recall: it has up to 60 days after filing to mail owners, at the address on the registration. We email you the day NHTSA posts a recall on the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, with what to do next. Nothing else, ever — no newsletter, no marketing, one-click unsubscribe in every message.

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Parts & accessories for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Search by fitment on eBay Motors — OEM take-offs, aftermarket, and the trim pieces dealers no longer stock. The listing and the price are the seller's.

Find parts for this GLC-Class →

Owner complaints

Source: NHTSA complaint database
141complaints filed

10 involved a crash · 2 a fire · 6 injuries · 0 deaths reported

44 per 10,000 built · Mercedes-Benz reported 32,202 GLC-Class built (its Early Warning production report to NHTSA)

Filed per year: 2015: 1 · 2016: 17 · 2017: 29 · 2018: 15 · 2019: 10 · 2020: 8 · 2021: 6 · 2022: 23 · 2023: 14 · 2024: 8 · 2025: 6 · 2026: 4

Most-cited components

Engine 44
Service Brakes 29
Unspecified 23
Fuel/Propulsion System 22
Electrical System 12
Air Bags 12

In owners' own words

Filed with NHTSA by the people who own these cars, one per problem area. Quoted as written, with anything identifying removed.

I bought a new 2016 model (feb. 2016), around nov 2016, the rotors started making squeaking noise when backing up, so I took to dealer to diagnose. At first, they couldn't find the issue but after reading on the merc forum, I took the car back to dealer (jan.
Service Brakes Jan 26, 2018 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11065248
This car is subject to a safety recall dated march 8, 2017. Manufacturer and dealer have failed to offer remedy within 60 days. I AM told by both mercedes ben USA and by the local dealer from which we purchased the vehicle (purchased new) that no remedy is currently available
Electrical System Apr 10, 2017 NHTSA owner report · ODI 10971736
The contact owns a 2016 mercedes-benz Glc 300. The contact found NHTSA campaign number: 17v114000 (engine, transmission) pertaining to her vehicle. The part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue.
Engine Mar 6, 2017 NHTSA owner report · ODI 10958812
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. While driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal gasoline odor inside the vehicle. The gasoline odor was also outside the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired.
Fuel/Propulsion System at 38,000 miles Mar 12, 2026 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11723953
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in for routine maintenance, the mechanic discovered severe rusting and corrosion to the rear subframe of the vehicle, near the rear axle area. The cause of the failure was not yet determined, and the vehicle was not repaired.
Structure at 126,800 miles Oct 28, 2025 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11696022
Putting this car into park will normally automatically set the parking brake. Earlier that day, it did not set the brake. I assumed I must have hit some button or something on my dash to cause that. But then on the freeway, the car (for want of a better term) started wiggling and I found it hard to control it with the steering wheel.
Electronic Stability Control at 51,000 miles May 5, 2020 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11323374

Complaint counts are raw owner reports to NHTSA, not verified defects, and scale with how many were sold. Use them to spot patterns, not to rank.

Reported by Mercedes-Benz itself: 21 death-or-injury claims on this model year in its quarterly Early Warning reports to NHTSA (49 CFR 579.21): 2 killed, 23 injured, as claimed, not verified — about 65 per 100,000 built. Every GLC-Class model year, by year and system → Dated and by system, they are exhibit F of the defect dossier.

When owners reported it

Reported at 14k

miles, typically

Half the 63 owner reports with an odometer reading on file fall between 6,000 and 33,000 miles. That is when problems get reported, which is not the same as when they start — and not a failure rate, because nobody knows how many of these cars never had a problem at all.

under 10k 26
10k–20k 10
20k–30k 9
30k–40k 5
40k–50k 4
50k–60k 3
60k–70k 2
70k–80k 2
80k–90k 0
90k–100k 1
100k–150k 1
150k + 0

Median mileage by component

ComponentReportsMedian milesVs same age
Service Brakes236,0000.15×
Engine1327,8520.45×

Vs same age is this model year’s median for the system divided by the median of every 2016-model-year complaint about the same system, all makes: under 1× means owners of this car reported it at lower mileage. Here, owners reported earlier than same-age vehicles: service brakes (0.15×), engine (0.45×). Which systems go early across the whole fleet: the component study.

Odometer readings as filed by owners with NHTSA. Readings under 100 or over 400,000 miles are dropped as data entry rather than history, and a component needs at least 12 readings before a median is shown for it.

Crash ratings

Source: NHTSA NCAP

NHTSA has not published 5-Star crash ratings for this model year.

Service bulletins & campaigns

Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications
Communicationsfiled with NHTSA 416
Most recentmanufacturer date 2026-09-26
Kindsas classified by NHTSA 383 service bulletins, 20 others, 8 warranty extensions

Most often about: Electrical System, Equipment, Engine, Power Train, Structure.

  • LI27.00-P-073124 Service bulletin
    2026-09-26 · Power Train
  • Complaint Customer complaints relating to automatic transmission 725.0 (NAG3 Classic /9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission) and 725.1 (NAG3 facelift/9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission facelift) For faster, more effective and more targeted diagnosis, Intelligent Predictive Repair (IPR) has been developed and integrated into XENTRY Diagnosis. This ensures an automated diagnosis process. Cause As part of t
  • LI42.10-P-078779 Service bulletin
    2026-09-22 · Service Brakes
  • Complaint Repeat workshop visit for vehicle vibration while braking from 60MPH. NOTE: Although the symptom is similar to a tire or wheel vibration, it is usually readily noticeable that it is distinctly different if it happens at all times or only while braking. Cause Although the cause of the vibration is most likely due to excessive lateral runout on the rotor or hub/wheel bearing, the system as
  • LI82.62-P-078631 Service bulletin
    2026-09-14 · Structure — Body
  • Complaint Clanking noise from the area of the speakers in the doors. Cause Under analysis. Remedy To narrow down the cause, first of all remove the door trim. • If the noise continues to occur even with the door trim removed, then continue the diagnosis working towards the speaker and if necessary, create a TIPS case with an informative video as an attachment. Note: Please refer to this document i
  • LI27.10-P-075869 Service bulletin
    2026-09-14 · Power Train
  • Complaint Only vehicles with a variable transfer case are affected. This can be identified through control unit N45 or N15/7 in the quick test. When accelerating with light load, vibrations or jolting sensation may come from the drivetrain. It may be mistaken for a harsh shift. Cause Modified oil quality of the transfer case over time Remedy 1. Check initial quick test for faults in the following
  • LI27.00-P-073124 Service bulletin
    2026-09-04 · Power Train
  • Complaint Customer complaints relating to automatic transmission 725.0 (NAG3 Classic / 9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission) and 725.1 (NAG3 facelift/9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission facelift) For faster, more effective and more targeted diagnosis, Intelligent Predictive Repair (IPR) has been developed and integrated into XENTRY Diagnosis. This ensures an automated diagnosis process. Cause As part of
  • LI46.35-P-067339 Service bulletin
    2026-08-28 · Steering
  • Complaint During part of the steering movement, it feels heavier or more difficult to steer in the same spot every time. OR Rattling, humming, dry sliding/gravel noise from the electric steering system when steering (see attachment). Complaint does not impact the ability to safely steer or control the vehicle. Cause Ball screw drive (KGT) of electric steering damaged by: 1. External force due to:
  • LI72.20-P-075746 Service bulletin
    2026-08-24 · Structure — Body
  • Complaint Tailgate opens unintentionally. Cause Accidental or unnoticed activation of the button to open the tailgate on the vehicle key. EXAMPLE: when stored in trouser pocket, handbag etc. Remedy As of the 6th generation, the vehicle key can be recoded so that the tailgate no longer opens as a result of a long press on the button, but by double‑clicking on the button instead. This reduces the li
  • LI54.65-P-080132 Service bulletin
    2026-08-12 · Electrical System
  • Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics. Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached diagnostic guide.

A service bulletin is the manufacturer telling its dealers how to diagnose or repair a known condition. It is not a recall, not a finding that the vehicle is defective, and the work is not automatically free — though a bulletin is often what a dealer works from when you describe a symptom, so quoting the document number can save a diagnosis. The count is every communication filed; the list shows the most recent, one entry per campaign, because a single campaign is usually filed as several documents on the same day. The summaries are NHTSA's; the full documents come from the manufacturer.

Diagnostic trouble codes on file

Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications and complaints

Codes documented against this model year in the federal record. A code appearing here does not mean this vehicle will set it — it means the code is part of this nameplate-year's documented history.

CodeWhat it meansMost often filed underWhere it appears
P052E
P052E on Mercedes-Benz →
Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Fuel/Propulsion System · Fuel pump →6 owner reports

Generic codes (the second character is 0 or 2) mean the same thing on every vehicle sold in the United States. Manufacturer-specific codes (1 or 3) mean whatever the automaker assigned, and no honest source can define them for you — which is why the ones here carry the evidence instead of a definition. A code is a link when enough separate federal documents name it across the catalogue to be worth a page of its own; the rest are listed here, where the vehicle is the context that makes them mean something.

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At the New York inspection station

Source: New York State DMV

In New York’s inspection lanes over the 12 months to Oct 10, 2026, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class failed the emissions check on 1.8% of first inspections — lower than the 4.2% for every 2016 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 1.6% (every 2016 vehicle: 2.2%).

New York inspections 1.8%

failed emissions

804 initial inspections of 789 vehicles.

MeasureThe 2016 GLC-ClassEvery 2016 vehicleBehind it
Failed the emissions check1.8%4.2%801
Failed the safety inspection1.6%2.2%804
Air-bag warning lamp stayed lit0.25%0.27%804
Miles driven a year8,06910,028odometer at inspection
Average odometer83,033103,109odometer at inspection

New York’s emissions test on these model years is an on-board diagnostics check: it fails a car whose check-engine light is on or whose self-tests have not finished. First inspections only, so a car that failed and came back is counted once; private and special plates, not taxis, livery or commercial plates. A rate appears only where at least 200 inspections stand behind it. “Every 2016 vehicle” is every 2016 model-year car, SUV and pickup inspected in the same window, all makes. This is the state’s record of test results, not a reliability score by itself. Source: New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Inspections (data.ny.gov, Open NY terms).

Common questions about the 2016 GLC-Class

Source: EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer press kits

Does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class have any recalls?

NHTSA has posted 12 recall campaigns for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, 3 of them rated critical. The most serious on file is 17V627000, covering Air Bags. Check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls; a recall applies to specific build ranges, not every car.

How safe is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

NHTSA has not published a crash-test rating for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class yet. On the recall record WhichTrim grades it F (39/100), which measures open and severe recalls rather than crash protection.

What is the fuel economy of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

Across the 2 EPA-rated configurations of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the best EPA combined figure is 24 mpg. Figures are the EPA's own, per configuration, and every one is listed above.

What are the dimensions of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

Transport Canada measured it at 183.5 in long, 74.0 in wide (body, without mirrors), 64.6 in tall, on a 113.0 in wheelbase. Curb weight: 3,825 lb. Those are its measurements of the North American versions; every figure is in the table above.

What do owners complain about on the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

Owners have filed 141 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, most often about engine, service brakes, unspecified. Of those, 10 involved a crash, 2 a fire, 6 reported injuries. Complaints are unverified owner reports, so treat the pattern as a signal and the individual report as an anecdote.

How clean is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

The EPA smog rating for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class runs 5 to 7 out of 10 across its configurations. That score covers tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, and it only compares vehicles within the same model year. It is certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S. Its configurations were certified to different standards — Bin 5, LEV-III ULEV70 — which the table above lists per configuration.

Are there service bulletins for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

The manufacturer has filed 416 service bulletins and related communications with NHTSA for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, most often covering electrical system, equipment, engine. The most recent is dated 2026-09-26. A bulletin is not a recall: it is the repair procedure a manufacturer sends its dealers for a condition it knows about, and the work is not automatically paid for. It is still worth knowing — if the symptom matches, quoting the bulletin number at the service desk can save a diagnosis. The document numbers and summaries are listed above.

How does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class do at state inspection?

In New York’s inspection lanes over the 12 months to Oct 10, 2026, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class failed the emissions check on 1.8% of first inspections — lower than the 4.2% for every 2016 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 1.6% (every 2016 vehicle: 2.2%). The figures are New York State DMV’s own inspection records, first inspections only, and the table above sets each one against every vehicle of the same model year.

What we hold, and what an empty row means

Paid vehicle-history reports will not tell you the difference between “nothing happened to this car” and “we never received that record” — both of the big two say as much in their own help pages. Most of what is on this page comes from complete federal registers, so we can tell you which is which, row by row.

DataHeldSourceWhat it covers — or what empty means
Fuel economy & configurations2 configurationsEPA certification recordsEvery configuration the EPA certified for sale, with its own test figures.
Emission certificates2 configurationsEPA emission certificatesSmog rating, standard and the sales area that decides where the car can be sold new.
Recalls12NHTSA recall campaignsA complete federal register: every campaign covering this model year, with severity and advisory flags.
Owner complaints141NHTSA complaint databaseAlso complete, but unverified: these are reports owners filed, not findings. Counts scale with how many were sold.
Crash ratingsnoneNHTSA NCAPNHTSA has not tested this model year. Cars are selected for testing, so untested is not unsafe.
Service bulletins416NHTSA manufacturer communicationsEverything the manufacturer told its dealers about a defect or malfunction, short of a recall.
Investigations2NHTSA Office of Defects InvestigationOpen and closed defect investigations, with the agency's own narrative.
Driver-assist crash reportsnoneNHTSA Standing General Order 2021-01No report has been filed. Only entities named in the order report, and only crashes they hear of — so this is also what an unequipped car, or a manufacturer without telematics, looks like.
Specifications filed with NHTSA8 fieldsNHTSA vPIC, decoded from VIN patternsWhat the manufacturer filed under the federal VIN rule — a configuration, not the full trim ladder.
Measured dimensions7 fieldsTransport Canada, Canadian Vehicle SpecificationsLength, width, height, wheelbase, track and curb weight, measured on the North American versions.
Trims, pricing & equipmentnoneManufacturer press kitWe have not transcribed a press kit for this model year yet. This is our gap, not the manufacturer's — the one row here where an empty cell means we are behind.

Rebuilt nightly; this page was generated 2026-10-26. Every figure above is traceable to the source named beside it, and the JSON for this page carries the same values with their identifiers.

Sources & method

Safety Signal starts every model-year at 100 and subtracts points per open NHTSA recall campaign by severity: critical 15 (fire risk, park-outside or do-not-drive advisories), high 8 (brakes, steering, airbags, loss of drive power, structure, battery), moderate 6, minor 3 (software, labels, lighting fixed by an update). The most serious recall counts in full and each further one counts 85% of the one before, because a vehicle sold in millions is recalled more often than a rare one without being more dangerous — and because a flat subtraction bottomed the scale out, scoring a vehicle with 22 recalls within a point of one with six. A ≥ 90, B ≥ 80, C ≥ 70, D ≥ 60, otherwise F. Read it as what it counts: recall campaigns on the federal record, weighted by severity. The damping reduces the sales bias by roughly 40% but does not remove it: like our complaint counts, this is not normalized by how many were sold, so a best-seller still scores somewhat worse than an obscure model with the same real risk. NHTSA crash ratings, do-not-drive and park-outside advisories, and the crash, fire, injury and death counts in owner complaints are reported separately on every page and never blended into the letter — a vehicle can hold five stars and a poor letter at once, and where that happens we say so rather than leave you to notice. Because the scale subtracts from a clean sheet, a model year too new to have been recalled, complained about or bulletined scores full marks on an empty record; we label those grades provisional rather than present them as earned.

EPA figures come from fueleconomy.gov vehicle records. Recalls, complaints, investigations and crash ratings come from NHTSA's public flat files, refreshed nightly.

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