The 2018 Mercedes GLC lasts around 200,000 miles with some fuel pump and spark plug issues reported. At $22,500 to $69,570, it’s a decent value for a luxury SUV, although owners should be prepared for higher maintenance costs as it ages.
Is the 2018 Mercedes GLC a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2018 is a good year for the Mercedes GLC since it has a great combination of performance, luxury and technology. Owner reviews praise the safety features, smooth suspension, along with the nice stereo system.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Interior materials are high-quality and luxurious, the seats are very comfortable on long drives, cargo space is also okay for a small SUV.
- Reliability 7/10 – There are no serious widespread complaints on the 2018 GLC, although small issues are expensive to fix. Models from 2016 through 2022 all offer decent levels of reliability as they age.
- Performance 9/10 – Performance is okay from the base engines, while the AMG GLC 63 is one of the fastest compact SUVs on the market with its strong V8 engine.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2018 Mercedes GLC is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera along with emergency braking. Optional upgrades include a head-up display as well as blind spot monitoring.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 24 MPG, giving 417 miles of range from the 17.4 gallon tank. Gas costs are $13 higher than average, at $221 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2018 Mercedes GLC depreciates faster than some competitors since it has expensive maintenance costs, giving it an average value score.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Mercedes GLC?
- Consumer Reports says the 2018 Mercedes GLC offers a lot of advanced features for the money, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the 2018 GLC at 4/5, enjoying the performance from the V8 engine, but doesn’t like the frustrating technology interface.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the GLC a 3.9/5, praising the extremely luxurious interior, but owners don’t like the lack of cargo space compared to other small SUVs.
What Common Problems Does the 2018 Mercedes GLC Have?
Common problems found on the 2018 Mercedes Benz GLC Class include a reduction in fuel pressure, the engine misfiring, along with wet carpet on the driver’s side near the pedal box. Overall, these problems are average for a small luxury SUV, but repair costs are high since parts and labor are more expensive than many competitors.
A reduction in fuel pressure is the most widespread complaint from 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC owners, showing up at around 35,000 miles. The fuel pump is a known weak spot which can wear out and fail. Replacing the fuel pump costs around $1,200, depending on local labor rates.
The engine misfiring has also been reported by some GLC owners at roughly 60,000 miles. Usually, the spark plugs will need to be changed out to solve the problem. Installing new spark plugs costs $650 to $900 depending on the engine in your GLC, and is just part of normal maintenance.
Wet carpet on the driver’s side floor near the pedal box is another complaint on the 2018 GLC. The problem is caused by a clogged or disconnected sunroof drain line which will allow water to leak out. Cleaning out and reconnecting the drain line costs around $200 for labor, and solves the problem.
There are 14 recalls on the 2018 Mercedes GLC, which is worse than many other small SUVs on the market. Many of the recalls cover air bag inflators, which are common across all makes and models. The most serious recall covers the starter power supply cable, which Mercedes will replace for free on affected models.
How Long Will the 2018 Mercedes GLC Last?
A well-maintained 2018 Mercedes GLC can last around 200,000 miles before it becomes too expensive to keep running, which is shorter than the long-lasting Lexus RX. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than many competitors, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $1,023 per year.
As a used 2018 Mercedes GLC reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history owners should be prepared to replace the stabilizer bar links for $200, suspension air compressor costing $550, along with the control arm which costs around $1,480.
Yes it is reliable never had any issue with problems. Car always runs good and always is reliable 100% of the time.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is very good with a standard 7-inch screen in the dash with smartphone integration. Optional upgrades include a larger 8.4-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a high-powered Burmester surround-sound system.
Standard safety technology is very good offering:
- Rearview camera
- Crosswind alert
- Driver drowsiness monitoring
- Forward collision warning
- Emergency brake assist
- Mercedes Pre-Safe
Optional driver assistance features include:
- Head-up display
- Blind spot monitoring
Is the 2018 Mercedes GLC a Good Value?
Yes, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC is a decent value if you’re looking for an SUV which offers decent luxury features and performance, although maintenance costs get expensive as it ages. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $22,500 to $69,570, making it more than an Acura MDX or Lincoln MKX. When new, the price range was $40,050 to $80,750. Depreciation is a bit worse than other SUVs, losing only about 12% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Mercedes GLC?
There are four main models of the 2018 Mercedes GLC offered, from the entry-level GLC 300 to the high-performance AMG GLC 63. The GLC comes standard with rear-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive, which is known as 4Matic, is an optional upgrade. There are also several options packages available.
GLC 300 is the entry-level model with:
- Exterior: 18-inch wheels, adaptive suspension damping, power liftgate, rearview camera, power-folding mirrors, automatic wipers.
- Interior: Dual-zone automatic climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-adjustable steering wheel, adjustable drive settings, power-adjustable driver seat with memory functions, 40/20/40-split power-folding rear seats, simulated leather upholstery (MB-Tex), keyless ignition.
- Tech: 7-inch infotainment display, Mbrace Connect, eight-speaker sound system with HD radio, two USB ports.
GLC 350e is a hybrid version which adds:
- Similar features and options as the GLC 300.
- Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid with an electric motor and battery pack.
AMG GLC 43 is a sportier choice, adding:
- Exterior: 20-inch wheels, sport-tuned air suspension.
- Interior: Sport steering wheel, simulated-suede seat inserts, heated front seats.
- Tech: Premium package (includes blind-spot monitoring, keyless ignition and entry, satellite radio, 115-volt power outlet).
AMG GLC 63 is the high-performance model with:
- Exterior: Upgraded brakes, LED headlights, mechanical limited-slip differential, variable torque distribution for the all-wheel drive system.
- Tech: 14-speaker premium Burmester surround-sound system.
Options Packages:
Driver Assistance Package:
- Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and mitigation, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning and mitigation (with automatic braking), contents of the Premium package for GLC 300.
Advanced Parking Assistant Package:
- Top-down parking camera system, front and rear parking sensors, automated parking system, hands-free liftgate.
Advanced Lighting Package:
- Adaptive LED headlights, automatic high-beam control, interior ambient lighting, illuminated door sills.
Multimedia Package:
- Navigation system, touchpad controller, 8.4-inch central display screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available separately (incompatible with Multimedia or Driver Assistance package).
Stand-alone Options:
- Styling upgrades: 21-inch wheels, Night package (glossy black exterior elements), AMG Line (GLC 300 only, includes interior and exterior appearance modifications, flat-bottom steering wheel, GLC 43’s upgraded brakes).
- Luxury enhancements: Cabin fragrance and air purification system, panoramic sunroof, head-up display, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, rear side-window shades, various trim accents, multiple premium leather upholsteries (paired with adjustable passenger thigh support and memory settings). A performance exhaust system is available exclusively for AMG models.
What Engines Come In the Mercedes GLC?
- The GLC 300 is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine, producing 241 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft of torque, at up to 24 MPG. It is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 0-60 mph time for this model is around 6.4 seconds.
- The GLC 350e is a plug-in hybrid model that combines a 2.0L inline-4 turbo engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 320 horsepower and 413 lb.-ft of torque. This model uses a seven-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is 56 MPGe. It achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 6.2 seconds.
- The AMG GLC 43 is equipped with a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine, outputting 362 horsepower and 384 lb.-ft of torque while getting 20 MPG. It uses a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 0-60 mph time for this performance model is approximately 4.8 seconds.
- The AMG GLC 63 + boasts a powerful 4.0L V8 biturbo engine that generates a mighty 469 horsepower and 479 lb.-ft of torque, which gets up to 18 MPG. It’s comes with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission. This variant sprints from 0-60 mph in an impressive 3.9 seconds.
What Colors Does the Mercedes GLC Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Mercedes GLC?
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC has a very comfortable and luxurious interior. The cabin is a well-crafted blend of high-quality materials, such as soft leather, brushed metal, and polished wood, creating a serene environment that is both sophisticated and relaxing. The GLC’s seats provide an ample amount of support and cushioning for all body types. The front seats offer multi-way power adjustments, allowing for perfect positioning and long-haul comfort, while the rear seats have ample legroom and headroom to accommodate adults comfortably, even on longer trips.
Regarding ride comfort, the GLC shines with its poised and refined handling. The standard suspension system adeptly absorbs road imperfections, providing a smooth ride, while the optional air suspension provides an even more cushioned and adjustable ride quality. The cabin is also remarkably quiet, with minimal wind and road noise intrusion, adding to the overall sense of tranquility.
How Much Storage Space Does the Mercedes GLC Have?
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC offers a blend of luxury and practicality with its spacious and flexible storage capacity. The cargo capacity stands at an impressive 19.4 cubic feet behind the second row of seats. With the rear seats folded down the cargo space increases to 56.5 cubic feet.
To put this into perspective, in the normal configuration, the GLC can comfortably accommodate several full-size suitcases or a week’s worth of groceries. The wide and convenient rear hatch opening further facilitates loading and unloading of items. Moreover, the low load floor and power liftgate also enhance the practicality and usability of the cargo area, making the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC a great choice for those seeking both style and substance.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The Mercedes-Benz GLC was introduced for the 2016 model year, as a replacement for the outgoing GLK.
2016: First model year for the Mercedes GLC offering new styling, technology and cabin.
2017: Sportier AMG GLC 43 model introduced, and a minor shuffling of features.
2018: New GLC 350e plug-in hybrid available, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered, and the new high-performance AMG GLC 63 added.
2019: A household outlet and heated front seats are standard, and there’s an optional off-road engineering package.
2020: The highly-rated MBUX infotainment system is added to the lineup, along with a more powerful four-cylinder engine.
2021: GLC 350e plug-in hybrid model discontinued.
How Does the Mercedes GLC Compare to the Competition?
The 2018 Mercedes GLC is a very good compact luxury SUV offering a lot of nice features, although the ownership costs get expensive as they age due to the high parts and labor costs.
The Mercedes GLE is a larger SUV offered by Mercedes which costs about $3,500 more. Passenger room is better in the Mercedes GLE, while the Mercedes GLC has more responsive and nimble steering. We recommend the Mercedes GLC for most shoppers unless you need the extra passenger room found in the GLE.
The Lexus RX is another competitor, which can be found for roughly $5,000 more. Long-term reliability ratings are better in the Lexus RX, while the Mercedes GLC offers a lot more luxury for the money. We recommend the Lexus RX since it’s much more affordable to own.
Do Owners Recommend the Mercedes GLC?
Yes, very simple to drive and comfortable for driver and passengers with enough personal space to be in a car for long time or short time.