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2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Plug-in hybrid Gas
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
9 EPA-rated configurations
Data refreshed 2026-10-26
F
Safety Signal
43 / 100 from the NHTSA recall record
Recalls1 critical 20
Complaints3 crash · 2 fire · 4 injured reported 80
Crash ratingnot rated by NHTSA —
Fuel economybest combined, EPA 25 mpg
202720262025202420232022202120202019201820172016

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class is sold in the U.S. as a plug-in hybrid and gas midsize SUV with 9 EPA-rated configurations. The most efficient version, the GLC350e 4matic, is EPA-rated at 25 mpg combined. NHTSA lists 20 recall campaigns for this model year, 1 rated critical, which gives it a Safety Signal grade of F. Owners have filed 80 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 / motorCityHwyCombRangekWh/100miCharge (240V)Annual fuel*
GLC350e 4maticPlug-in hybrid4WD2.0L 4-cyl turbo + 90 kW DCPM232825 (36 MPGe blended)22 mi electric491.3 h$3,300
GLC300GasRWD2.0L 4-cyl turbo222924———$3,400
GLC300 4maticGas4WD2.0L 4-cyl turbo212824———$3,400
GLC300 4matic CoupeGas4WD2.0L 4-cyl turbo212824———$3,400
AMG GLC43 4maticGas4WD3.0L 6-cyl turbo182421———$3,900
AMG GLC43 4matic CoupeGas4WD3.0L 6-cyl turbo182421———$3,900
AMG GLC63 4matic PlusGas4WD4.0L 8-cyl turbo162218———$4,550
AMG GLC63 4matic Plus CoupeGas4WD4.0L 8-cyl turbo162218———$4,550
AMG GLC63 S 4matic Plus CoupeGas4WD4.0L 8-cyl turbo162218———$4,550

*EPA estimate at 15,000 miles/year at EPA reference fuel and electricity prices. fueleconomy.gov record ids: 42756, 41872, 41877, 41896, 42263, 42264, 42206, 42207, 42208.

Emissions & certification

Source: EPA emission certificates
ConfigurationSmog ratingEmission standardWhere it can be sold newSmartWay
GLC350e 4matic5 / 10California LEV-III ULEV70 / Federal Tier 3 Bin 70All 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standardsSmartWay
GLC300, GLC300 4matic, GLC300 4matic Coupe6 / 10California LEV-III ULEV50 / Federal Tier 3 Bin 50All 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standards—
AMG GLC43 4matic, AMG GLC43 4matic Coupe, AMG GLC63 4matic Plus, AMG GLC63 4matic Plus Coupe, AMG GLC63 S 4matic Plus Coupe5 / 10California LEV-III ULEV70 / Federal Tier 3 Bin 70All 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 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg)

Engine Basics

Cylinders4
Displacement2 L
Engine configurationIn-Line

Engine Output

Horsepower208 hp

Fuel Economy

FuelElectric

Seating

Seat rows2
Seating capacity5 seats

Transmission

TransmissionAutomatic
Transmission speeds9

Driver assistance

Standard: Adaptive cruise control, Anti-lock brakes, Backup camera, Blind-spot monitoring, Electronic stability control, Pedestrian automatic emergency braking

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: AMG GLC 63, AMG GLC 63 S, AMG GLC43, GLC 350 e-4M). Figures for the trim you are looking at may differ.

Dimensions & weight

Source: Transport Canada
Length183.5–186.2 in
Width (body, without mirrors)74.0–74.4 in
Height63.0–64.6 in
Wheelbase113.0 in
Track, front63.8 in
Track, rear63.8 in
Curb weight3,977–4,586 lb
Weight distribution, front/rear50/50 to 53/47

Measured by Transport Canada for its Canadian Vehicle Specifications database, which covers the North American versions of each model — here 7 configurations: 300 4Matic 4-door SUV, 300 4Matic Coupe, 350E 4Matic 4-door SUV, 43 AMG 4Matic 4-door SUV, 43 AMG 4Matic Coupe, 63 S AMG 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 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class is in the years where high-voltage electronics and module 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 →

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Recalls (20)

Source: NHTSA recall database
○minor

Exterior Lighting

15,502 vehicles 81% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 GLC 300, 2020 GLC 350e, and 2020-2022 AMG GLC 43 vehicles. The headlights may be incorrectly adjusted too high and create a glare for oncoming traffic. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." Risk Incorrectly aimed headlights can reduce the visibility of oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will inspect the headlight adjustment and correct it if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 23, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
NHTSA campaign 24V070000 reported Feb 2, 2024 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲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

Power Train

2022080001
1,168 vehicles 96% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLC350E4 vehicles. The transmission wiring harness may be routed improperly, allowing it to chafe against the front drive shaft, which can cause loss of drive power. Risk A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission wiring harness, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 26, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022080001.
NHTSA campaign 22V494000 reported Jul 11, 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Electrical System

See Recall Schedule
242,722 vehicles 91% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system. Risk A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury. Fix The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V365000 reported May 20, 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Back Over Prevention

2022060007
126,443 vehicles 92% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe/Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and CLS-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." Risk An inoperable rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022060007.
NHTSA campaign 22V232000 reported Apr 8, 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Fuel System, Gasoline

2022030003
139 vehicles 88% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 AMG G63, C300, E300, G550, AMG GT63, AMG GT53, 2019-2020 A220, GLA250, GLC300, 2016 C300, 2020 AMG A35, AMG C43, AMG C63, CLA250, E350, E450, GLB250, GLE450, GLS450, GLS580, S560, and SL550 vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine. During the manufacturing process, particles may have been trapped between the fuel rail and injectors, which can cause a fuel leak. Risk A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire. Fix Dealers will replace the fuel rail and fuel injectors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for the recall is 2022030003.
NHTSA campaign 21V961000 reported Dec 13, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

2021070032/33
542 vehicles 95% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 CLS450, AMG E53, AMG CLS53, E350, E450, AMG GT43, AMG GT53, 2020 S450, S560, G550, AMG GLC63, 2020-2021 GLC300, and AMG G63 vehicles. The side crash sensor connectors may come loose, which could delay the activation of air bags and seatbelts during a side impact crash. Risk Air bags and seatbelts that don't function as intended can increase the risk of injury during a crash. Fix Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the side impact crash sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021070032/33.
NHTSA campaign 21V527000 reported Jul 12, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Electrical System

2021050012
343,191 vehicles 97% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, and AMG GT-Class 4-door Coupe vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility." Risk A backup camera that displays a blank image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. Fix The multimedia system software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 28, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6373. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021050012.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 21V354000 reported May 14, 2021 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

Communication

2021030005
67 vehicles 87% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2019 C300, E300, 2018-2020 CLA250, 2020 CLS450, AMG E53, AMG GT53, GLE450, 2018 AMG E63, AMG GTA, 2017-2020 GLA250, GLC300, 2019 GLC350, AMG GLC43, 2017-2018 GLE350, 2019 AMG GLC 43, GLC350, GLE400, 2017 GLS450, S550, C300 Cabrio, and 2018-2019 S560 vehicles. On June 18, 2021, an additional 9 vehicles were added, including certain 2021 GLA250, GLC300, 2018 S450, E400, and 2017 CLA250 vehicles. The communication module might have been inadvertently deactivated during a service visit, which could have disabled the Emergency Call (eCall) function. Risk A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting emergency services through the call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the communication module and activate it, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Letters for the owners of the 9 additional vehicles were mailed July 9, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021030005.
NHTSA campaign 21V072000 reported Feb 12, 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 →
▲high

Electrical System

2021010006
2,563 vehicles 96% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2020 AMG GLC 63 4MATIC vehicles. The power supply cable on the starter might not have been installed correctly, possibly allowing the cable to chafe against the starter housing and short-circuit. Risk If the power supply cable short-circuits, it can result in a stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, a short-circuit can increase the risk of a fire. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the starter harness and power supply cable installation, and correct it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 18, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021010006.
NHTSA campaign 20V776000 reported Dec 11, 2020 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Steering

2020110012
2,533 vehicles 98% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLC300, GLC350e, GLC43 AMG, and GLC63 AMG vehicles. The power steering control unit wiring harness may have been damaged during the production process, possibly resulting in a loss of power steering assist or an electrical short-circuit. Risk A loss of power steering assist can increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, If the wiring harness short-circuits, there is an increased risk of a fire. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wiring harness, and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020110012.
NHTSA campaign 20V651000 reported Oct 23, 2020 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Electrical System

2020110008
7 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLC 350e hybrid electric vehicles. The high-voltage wiring harness shield may not withstand the electrical loads produced under certain driving conditions, possibly causing an electrical malfunction and resulting in a stall. Risk A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the high-voltage wiring harness, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020110008.
NHTSA campaign 20V607000 reported Oct 2, 2020 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Electrical System

2020080016
5,399 vehicles 97% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 C63 AMG, C63 AMG S, AMG GT 53, AMG GT 63, AMG GT 63 S, and 2020 GLC 63 AMG, GLC 63 AMG S vehicles. An incorrect Electronic Stability Program (ESP) software version may cause the ESP system to react inaccurately. On December 18, 2020, an additional 360 vehicles were added to the recall population. Risk If the ESP does not react properly to a driving situation, it may increase the risk of a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the ESP software, free of charge. The recall began August 28, 2020. Letters for the owners of the 360 additional vehicles were mailed January 15, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020080016.
NHTSA campaign 20V395000 reported Jul 6, 2020 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Engine And Engine Cooling

2020070017
90 vehicles 99% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 C300, E350, and GLC300 vehicles equipped with turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engines. The screws that retain the turbocharger oil feed and return lines may not have been properly tightened, possibly resulting in an oil leak. Risk An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components can increase the risk of a fire. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the turbocharger oil lines and tighten them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began August 17, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020070017.
NHTSA campaign 20V364000 reported Jun 22, 2020 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Seats

2020070004
1,352 vehicles 98% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 E450, AMG E63S, GLC300, AMG GLC43, AMG GLC63, AMG GT53, and AMG GT63 vehicles equipped with rear seatbacks that can be electrically unlatched. The left-rear seatback latch may not be strong enough to withstand certain loads. If cargo were to strike the left-rear seatback, the latch may fail. Risk In the event of a crash, if the left-rear seatback latch fails, it can increase the risk of injury. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the left-rear seatback latch, free of charge. The recall began August 17, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020070004.
NHTSA campaign 20V328000 reported Jun 5, 2020 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Communication

2020030016
239 vehicles 98% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 C300 Cabrio, C300 Cabrio 4MATIC, C300 Coupe, C43 AMG Cabrio 4MATIC, C43 AMG Coupe 4MATIC, C63S AMG Cabrio, CLS53 AMG 4MATIC, E350, E350 4MATIC, E450 Cabrio, E450 Cabrio 4MATIC, E450 Coupe, E450 Coupe 4MATIC, E450 4MATIC, E53 AMG Cabrio 4MATIC, GLC300 Coupe 4MATIC, GLC300, GLC300 4MATIC, GLC63 AMG Coupe 4MATIC, AMG GT63 4-Door 4MATIC, and AMG GT63S 4-Door 4MATIC vehicles. An electrical circuit inside the Emergency Call System (eCall) communication module may be damaged, potentially relaying an inaccurate vehicle location. Risk An inaccurate vehicle location may delay emergency responders, increasing the risk of injury. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the communication module, free of charge. The recall began April 14, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020030016.
NHTSA campaign 20V068000 reported Feb 7, 2020 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

2019100001
2,222 vehicles 98% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 A 220 and A 220 4MATIC, 2020 CLA 250, CLA 250 4 MATIC, GLC 300 Coupe 4MATIC, GLC 300 and GLC 300 4MATIC vehicles. The driver's side front airbag modules may not have been properly bolted down. Risk In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's front airbag, the airbag may not deploy properly, increasing the risk of injury. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the driver airbag module and replace it, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 29, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019100001.
NHTSA campaign 19V685000 reported Sep 27, 2019 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Forward Collision Avoidance

2019080008
1,957 vehicles 96% reported repaired built Nov 19, 2018 – Jul 3, 2019
Problem 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 A Risk An impaired Active Brake Assist may not automatically apply partial or full braking as expected, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix 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.
NHTSA campaign 19V540000 reported Jul 19, 2019 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

Electrical System:Propulsion System — Pedestrian alert sounds closed

NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after March 1, 2021. On January 27, 2023, NHTSA opened Defect Petition (DP) 22-005 to evaluate the subject mat

Opened Jan 27, 2023 · closed Aug 7, 2023 · action DP22005 · 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 2020 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 2020 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 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

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Owner complaints

Source: NHTSA complaint database
80complaints filed

3 involved a crash · 2 a fire · 4 injuries · 0 deaths reported

14 per 10,000 built · Mercedes-Benz reported 58,737 GLC-Class built (its Early Warning production report to NHTSA)

Filed per year: 2020: 5 · 2021: 9 · 2022: 13 · 2023: 11 · 2024: 13 · 2025: 20 · 2026: 9

Most-cited components

Engine 27
Unspecified 16
Electrical System 10
Back Over Prevention 8
Forward Collision Avoidance 7
Steering 5

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.

Engine failure needs cylinder head replaced which is very common amongst this car. Same make and model is covered under warranty but mine has a different engine that isn't covered. These cars were made during covid and have faulty parts
Engine May 2, 2024 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11586626
Center COMAND screen malfunctions. No rear camera view when reversing when screen does not work. Dealer attempted a repair but issue remains. Parts ordered for replacement
Electrical System Apr 4, 2024 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11581247
I have had issues with squeaky, very loud noises at slow speed and reverse braking. I have had this issue since I purchased this vehicle. I have brought it in a few times to have 2 different dealers fix the noise as I believe it is a safety issue as well.
Service Brakes Dec 29, 2023 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11562589
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300. The contact stated that the rearview camera displayed a reverse mirror image. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V232000 (Back Over Prevention). The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer.
Back Over Prevention at 60,000 miles Mar 20, 2023 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11512856
The seatbelt latch does not fully release when you press the red button. It needs to be wiggled and then it eventually does release. This is an ongoing issue
Seat Belts Aug 20, 2026 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11758163
the power steering wheel adjustment stopped working, leaving the steering wheel stuck in a very unconfutable position for driving. The car just ended its 4 yr warranty
Steering Apr 17, 2024 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11583628

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: 16 death-or-injury claims on this model year in its quarterly Early Warning reports to NHTSA (49 CFR 579.21): 1 killed, 19 injured, as claimed, not verified — about 27 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 18k

miles, typically

Half the 22 owner reports with an odometer reading on file fall between 3,000 and 36,000 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.

Too few readings for a curve — the 22 on file: 10 under 10k, 1 10k–20k, 2 20k–30k, 4 30k–40k, 2 40k–50k, 1 50k–60k, 2 60k–70k.

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
ConfigurationOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
SUV 4WDnot ratednot rated★★★★★★★★★☆19%
SUV RWDnot ratednot rated★★★★★★★★★☆18%

NHTSA New Car Assessment Program. Standard driver-assist: forward collision warning.

Service bulletins & campaigns

Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications
Extended coverage on file 3 filings by the manufacturer with NHTSA naming this model year

The term and the vehicles it covers are the manufacturer’s, as NHTSA’s summary of each filing states them; a dealer checks one particular car by its VIN. Every Mercedes-Benz warranty extension (9) → · Every warranty extension on file, all makes →

Communicationsfiled with NHTSA 1,162
Most recentmanufacturer date 2026-09-26
Kindsas classified by NHTSA 1080 service bulletins, 25 others, 20 warranty extensions

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

  • 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
  • LI42.10-P-063502 Service bulletin
    2026-09-01 · Service Brakes
  • Complaint Noises/ squealing from the service brake in various driving situations and ambient conditions. Cause Frictional vibrations Remedy The intent of this document is to reduce noise from high performance AMG brakes. AMG brakes are designed for performance under high load and in certain scenarios, can emit noise. Some scenarios are normal and some are induced by driving style like those listed
  • 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

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
C350E
C350E on Mercedes-Benz →
Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Engine3 bulletins

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 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class failed the emissions check on 1.4% of first inspections — lower than the 2.2% for every 2020 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 0.88% (every 2020 vehicle: 1.6%).

New York inspections 1.4%

failed emissions

2,853 initial inspections of 2,785 vehicles.

MeasureThe 2020 GLC-ClassEvery 2020 vehicleBehind it
Failed the emissions check1.4%2.2%2,842
Failed the safety inspection0.88%1.6%2,853
Air-bag warning lamp stayed lit0.14%0.19%2,853
Miles driven a year8,4469,980odometer at inspection
Average odometer52,90162,630odometer 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 2020 vehicle” is every 2020 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 2020 GLC-Class

Source: EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer press kits

Does the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class have any recalls?

NHTSA has posted 20 recall campaigns for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, 1 of them rated critical. The most serious on file is 20V651000, covering Steering. Check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls; a recall applies to specific build ranges, not every car.

How safe is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

NHTSA has not published a crash-test rating for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class yet. On the recall record WhichTrim grades it F (43/100), which measures open and severe recalls rather than crash protection.

What is the fuel economy of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

Across the 9 EPA-rated configurations of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the best EPA combined figure is 25 mpg (MPGe on the electrified versions). Figures are the EPA's own, per configuration, and every one is listed above.

What are the dimensions of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

Transport Canada measured it at 183.5–186.2 in long, 74.0–74.4 in wide (body, without mirrors), 63.0–64.6 in tall, on a 113.0 in wheelbase. Curb weight: 3,977–4,586 lb depending on configuration. Those are its measurements of the North American versions; every figure is in the table above.

What do owners complain about on the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

Owners have filed 80 complaints with NHTSA about the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, most often about engine, unspecified, electrical system. Of those, 3 involved a crash, 2 a fire, 4 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 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

The EPA smog rating for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class runs 5 to 6 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 — California LEV-III ULEV50, California LEV-III ULEV70, Federal Tier 3 Bin 50, Federal Tier 3 Bin 70 — which the table above lists per configuration.

Are there service bulletins for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class?

The manufacturer has filed 1162 service bulletins and related communications with NHTSA for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, most often covering electrical system, equipment, power train. 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 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class do at state inspection?

In New York’s inspection lanes over the 12 months to Oct 10, 2026, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class failed the emissions check on 1.4% of first inspections — lower than the 2.2% for every 2020 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 0.88% (every 2020 vehicle: 1.6%). 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 & configurations9 configurationsEPA certification recordsEvery configuration the EPA certified for sale, with its own test figures.
Emission certificates9 configurationsEPA emission certificatesSmog rating, standard and the sales area that decides where the car can be sold new.
Recalls20NHTSA recall campaignsA complete federal register: every campaign covering this model year, with severity and advisory flags.
Owner complaints80NHTSA complaint databaseAlso complete, but unverified: these are reports owners filed, not findings. Counts scale with how many were sold.
Crash ratings2 testedNHTSA NCAPOnly the configurations NHTSA chose to crash-test, which is never all of them.
Service bulletins1162NHTSA 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 NHTSA12 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.

JSON for this page · API