MBUSA MAY LIE TO EVERY GLK CLASS OWNER
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 43
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From: California
2009 GL550 650/201
MBUSA MAY LIE TO EVERY GLK CLASS OWNER
I just got my new GLK350 last week, according MBUSA.COM described it should be equipped speed-sensitive hydraulic power assist steering as a standard option, this information could be found at http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicl...model-GLK350W2, then select and expand menu Chassis And Traction Control/Stability Systems.
But it is totally a lie, GLK class in US market was never equipped speed-sensitive power steering, owners can ask dealer for a vehicle data card, then you will find out if this equipment is on the list, the equipment sales code should be 213 SPEED-SENSITIVE POWER STEERING/VARIO STEERING,but nothing.
Any idea what should i do now?
But it is totally a lie, GLK class in US market was never equipped speed-sensitive power steering, owners can ask dealer for a vehicle data card, then you will find out if this equipment is on the list, the equipment sales code should be 213 SPEED-SENSITIVE POWER STEERING/VARIO STEERING,but nothing.
Any idea what should i do now?
Super Moderator Alumni
Joined: Apr 2002
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From: Basel, Switzerland
Audi A5 Sportback + Cannondale Prophet
It sounds to me that they would treat it as a website oversight, thank you for letting them know, apologize for inconveniencing you, but not give you anything. They may even have a disclaimer in the website.
Now, if your invoice or other description of YOUR actual vehicle described the equipment, and it was not present, it would be a different story.
Now, if your invoice or other description of YOUR actual vehicle described the equipment, and it was not present, it would be a different story.
Super Member
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 887
Likes: 6
From: Northern New Jersey
2010 GLK Black, Premium 1, Lighting, Multimedia, Appearance and Media Pkg, 2012 Corvette Grand Sport
I just got my new GLK350 last week, according MBUSA.COM described it should be equipped speed-sensitive hydraulic power assist steering as a standard option, this information could be found at http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicl...model-GLK350W2, then select and expand menu Chassis And Traction Control/Stability Systems.
But it is totally a lie, GLK class in US market was never equipped speed-sensitive power steering, owners can ask dealer for a vehicle data card, then you will find out if this equipment is on the list, the equipment sales code should be 213 SPEED-SENSITIVE POWER STEERING/VARIO STEERING,but nothing.
Any idea what should i do now?
But it is totally a lie, GLK class in US market was never equipped speed-sensitive power steering, owners can ask dealer for a vehicle data card, then you will find out if this equipment is on the list, the equipment sales code should be 213 SPEED-SENSITIVE POWER STEERING/VARIO STEERING,but nothing.
Any idea what should i do now?
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
From: California
2009 GL550 650/201
Speed Sensitive Steering
An outgrowth of power steering is speed sensitive steering, where the steering is heavily assisted at low speed and lightly assisted at high speed. The auto makers perceive that motorists might need to make large steering inputs while manoeuvering for parking, but not while traveling at high speed. The first vehicle with this feature was the Citroën SM with its Diravi layout[citation needed], although rather than altering the amount of assistance as in modern power steering systems, it altered the pressure on a centring cam which made the steering wheel try to "spring" back to the straight-ahead position. Modern speed-sensitive power steering systems reduce the mechanical or electrical assistance as the vehicle speed increases, giving a more direct feel. This feature is gradually becoming more common.
I really did a test drive on local road before purchase,and really didn't find out the difference in that test drive since it needs more high speed to get different feeling,but no dealer will allow a high way test drive.
Honestly, i don't care what kind of power steering is better, i just think the official website should tell us the truth.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,071
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Nissan GT-R BE / '12 Ducati-1199 Panigale S / '12 C300-4M Loaded/GLK350-4M Loaded
I just got my new GLK350 last week, according MBUSA.COM described it should be equipped speed-sensitive hydraulic power assist steering as a standard option, this information could be found at http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicl...model-GLK350W2, then select and expand menu Chassis And Traction Control/Stability Systems.
But it is totally a lie, GLK class in US market was never equipped speed-sensitive power steering, owners can ask dealer for a vehicle data card, then you will find out if this equipment is on the list, the equipment sales code should be 213 SPEED-SENSITIVE POWER STEERING/VARIO STEERING,but nothing.
Any idea what should i do now?
But it is totally a lie, GLK class in US market was never equipped speed-sensitive power steering, owners can ask dealer for a vehicle data card, then you will find out if this equipment is on the list, the equipment sales code should be 213 SPEED-SENSITIVE POWER STEERING/VARIO STEERING,but nothing.
Any idea what should i do now?
It has however been my #1 complaint with this Merc. since I bought it for my wife. The standard stock steering is a hydraulic pump power assist system (a throw back to prehistoric times
) that feels a little sluggish (especially with the 20" wheels) from a dead start and sloppy turns-ins with very little (if any) feed back. It also fails to self center correctly. It's the low point for me and the #one reason my wife normally drives the car instead of me.
Last edited by MBRedux; Apr 16, 2011 at 07:18 PM.
Super Member
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 887
Likes: 6
From: Northern New Jersey
2010 GLK Black, Premium 1, Lighting, Multimedia, Appearance and Media Pkg, 2012 Corvette Grand Sport
That is my only major complaint as MBRedux pointed out. The fact that the wheel does not self center and makes you work at it is my biggest gripe. Even at low speeds you need to work harder. IMO
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Joined: Oct 2009
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Nissan GT-R BE / '12 Ducati-1199 Panigale S / '12 C300-4M Loaded/GLK350-4M Loaded
Chassis
Front Suspension - 3-link McPherson struts with two-piece lower control arm
Steering-wheel turns - 2.8 turns lock-to-lock
Turning radius - 37.7 ft.curb-to-curb.
Rear Suspension - Independent multilink
Steering - Rack-and-pinion, speed-sensitive hydraulic power assist with variable centering
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Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 128
Likes: 2
2011 GLK350
You are 100% correct. Great find... but not a lie. It's probably a new level steering system that's now offered on some models (overseas maybe) due to all the complaints that have received since the GLK was introduced, especially from me... You did check your window sticker BEFORE you walked out the door?... didn't you? If it's not there, then it doesn't have it and Nola is correct. It's a website oversight, glitch, error, whatever you wish to call it.
It has however been my #1 complaint with this Merc. since I bought it for my wife. The standard stock steering is a hydraulic pump power assist system (a throw back to prehistoric times) that feels a little sluggish (especially with the 20" wheels) from a dead start and sloppy turns-ins with very little (if any) feed back. It also fails to self center correctly.
It's the low point for me and the #one reason my wife normally drives the car instead of me.
It has however been my #1 complaint with this Merc. since I bought it for my wife. The standard stock steering is a hydraulic pump power assist system (a throw back to prehistoric times
) that feels a little sluggish (especially with the 20" wheels) from a dead start and sloppy turns-ins with very little (if any) feed back. It also fails to self center correctly. It's the low point for me and the #one reason my wife normally drives the car instead of me.
I paid particular attention to steering on my commute today and find it does not exhibit any of those characteristics. Centers perfectly, corners evenly, runs very smooth and easy to control. Very responsive. Has a heavier feel compared to the bimmer, but steers fine nonetheless.
You said the steering is sluggish from a dead start? Like you're turning and starting, or accelleration, or what? I'm confused by this.
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Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 190
Likes: 1
From: Vancouver
Mazda 5, GLK350
2011 has better steering than 2010s, I test drove a 2010 and when I got the 2011, it was literally day and night.
Was a lot stiffer (not wobbly light)
had more accurate steering
allowed a better feel for the car
Was a lot stiffer (not wobbly light)
had more accurate steering
allowed a better feel for the car
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,136
Likes: 7
From: Los Angeles
2013 Infiniti G37 Coupe; 2011 GLK 350 w/ Premium 1, Multimedia & Sport Appearance; I LOVE IT!
I have a 2011 and have not noticed any issues with the steering and I'm pretty sensitive to that aspect of a car's performance.
Super Member
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 887
Likes: 6
From: Northern New Jersey
2010 GLK Black, Premium 1, Lighting, Multimedia, Appearance and Media Pkg, 2012 Corvette Grand Sport
I paid particular attention to steering on my commute today and find it does not exhibit any of those characteristics. Centers perfectly, corners evenly, runs very smooth and easy to control. Very responsive. Has a heavier feel compared to the bimmer, but steers fine nonetheless.
You said the steering is sluggish from a dead start? Like you're turning and starting, or accelleration, or what? I'm confused by this.
You said the steering is sluggish from a dead start? Like you're turning and starting, or accelleration, or what? I'm confused by this.
