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I want to recommend a GLK to someone who is otherwise interested in getting a washing machine, but before I do so, I want to know what sort of issues to look out for.
My understanding is these are built well in Germany, and are a relatively simple platform without many issues. Would you prefer an older GLK over a newer washing machine mini-SUVs? (CX-5, CRV, RAV4, etc?) Is gas mileage decent? Other than the ignition interlock breaking and needing replacing (or fixing?) what are common maintenance items with these? They use the 722.9 transmission? Rear main seal, torque converters, struts, timing chain guides, other stupid crap? I'm familiar with buying used Mercedes's and used cars in general (get a PPI, service history, etc.)
GLK specific, any options that are must-haves when looking? Anyone have a total nightmare with repairs? IOW if you were to buy another one, what would you look for?
If they aren't familiar with German makes and the preventive maintenance that's required, I'd advise they get the washing machine. It's better for them to blame themselves rather than blame you for suggesting the GLK
Reasons are many, but mainly they'll be older by now with quite a bit of miles racked up. There are possible issues which you can search for here, and they can be quite expensive as well as having a limited number of places that can diagnose and fix properly (and reasonably priced). So, to save yourself and them a headache, go with the gentle cycle.
If they aren't familiar with German makes and the preventive maintenance that's required, I'd advise they get the washing machine. It's better for them to blame themselves rather than blame you for suggesting the GLK
Reasons are many, but mainly they'll be older by now with quite a bit of miles racked up. There are possible issues which you can search for here, and they can be quite expensive as well as having a limited number of places that can diagnose and fix properly (and reasonably priced). So, to save yourself and them a headache, go with the gentle cycle.
What if you have the ability to diagnose and fix things properly? I could offer to do all the preventive maintenance.
I tried searching for common problems, but idk how to search for that. I got no useful results.
Andreigbs comments not with standing, the GLKs are some if the most reliable MBs in recent memory. Probably equivalent or better than the CRV and RAV 4. And a lot more power in the gasoline models. But 2015 is the latest year available.
For my nickel, I would go with a RWD model to avoid the high mileage disaster of a failed u-joint on the transfer case link. And a gasoline V-6 to avoid the diesel emissions system issues.
But no Mercedes, or other German luxury car, is a drive it and forget it vehicle like Honda and Toyota. And there aren’t 20 million of them around. The local quick oil change shops won’t have the right oil filter.
What if you have the ability to diagnose and fix things properly? I could offer to do all the preventive maintenance.
I don’t know your specific situation. I did that for my daughter for a while before she swore off on MBs. Do you really want to do that to yourself?
I also forgot to mention — the OE brake rotors were notorious for serious pedal pulsation. Unless the previous owner has gone with aftermarket brakes or swapped to compatible rotors from other MB models, that would be an instant dissatisfaction factor for a new owner.
I don’t know your specific situation. I did that for my daughter for a while before she swore off on MBs. Do you really want to do that to yourself?
I also forgot to mention — the OE brake rotors were notorious for serious pedal pulsation. Unless the previous owner has gone with aftermarket brakes or swapped to compatible rotors from other MB models, that would be an instant dissatisfaction factor for a new owner.
I just did three rear main seals. Short of having to do another rear main seal, or pulling the engine out, it's not that bad. I'd get duly compensated, but yeah, the issue would be if it becomes a conveyer belt of issues I wouldn't be able to deal with. More like a one-and-done type thing: fluids, common problems, etc.
You say you will do the maintenance ? For the trans service you fill from the pan, you need to monitor engine temp from the OBD port and fill to when the temp reaches a certain temperature. Or pay someone about 5-600, or Mb 7-800. When things break they cost 2-3x more than a washing machine to fix. It’s the parts and difficulties of some of the repairs. I have a good cheap mechanic so I’m happy so Far with a 2013. No problems so far.
You say you will do the maintenance ? For the trans service you fill from the pan, you need to monitor engine temp from the OBD port and fill to when the temp reaches a certain temperature. Or pay someone about 5-600, or Mb 7-800. When things break they cost 2-3x more than a washing machine to fix. It’s the parts and difficulties of some of the repairs. I have a good cheap mechanic so I’m happy so Far with a 2013. No problems so far.
The transmission service on these vehicles may sound intimidating, but it is actually pretty easy to do. The only “special” tools you need are a $15 hand pump from Amazon, the $15 screw in port from Amazon and a laser temperature gun (yes, a good scan tool that can read transmission temperature in real time would be better but not an absolute requirement). Good companies like FCP Euro can hook a person up with everything they need, plus anything you buy from them is lifetime warranty. Fear mongering not required in this case…
You say you will do the maintenance ? For the trans service you fill from the pan, you need to monitor engine temp from the OBD port and fill to when the temp reaches a certain temperature. Or pay someone about 5-600, or Mb 7-800. When things break they cost 2-3x more than a washing machine to fix. It’s the parts and difficulties of some of the repairs. I have a good cheap mechanic so I’m happy so Far with a 2013. No problems so far.
Easier to hook the radiator cooling lines up to a machine that flushes the fluid. Once that's done, drop the pan and replace the filter. Then refill by giving the transmission an enema. Mercedes and their "sealed for life" transmissions can suck my *****.
Easier to hook the radiator cooling lines up to a machine that flushes the fluid. Once that's done, drop the pan and replace the filter. Then refill by giving the transmission an enema. Mercedes and their "sealed for life" transmissions can suck my *****.
Jesus man that’s terrible advice! I won’t go through the trans service procedure, as anyone can look it up, but this is Not it lol. These transmissions are most definitely not “sealed for life.” The’re just missing a dip stick, why does that freak people out so much?
A flush is not the right way, and your Enema is What? The trans needs to be at a specific temperature to do the level or it’s all half assed
Did anyone here ever say the transmission does not need to be at a certain temperature? It’s a rhetorical question. Yes, the trans temperature needs to be at 113°. Changing whats in the pan, along with filter of course, is a proper way to service these transmissions. One can also drain the torque converter, if you can get to the drain, but that’s not even required. A full on flush, especially with the high mileage transmission, has the Potential to ruin an otherwise good transmission.
Why would you do that if you're going to drop the pan anyhow?
My understanding is the 722.9 transmissions didn't have drain plugs in their torque converters. Dropping the pan only gets 1/4 or 1/3rd of the tranny fluid.
2006 Alfa Romeo Brera, 2010 GLK350, 2018 BMW 640i GT, 1997 Subaru SVX, 2012 Moto Guzzi Norge GT8V
Originally Posted by Fried Chicken
My understanding is the 722.9 transmissions didn't have drain plugs in their torque converters. Dropping the pan only gets 1/4 or 1/3rd of the tranny fluid.
More like 2/3 to 3/4. Torque converter has a drain plug. I did mine last fall but didn't bother with the TC.
My '13 GLK350 4Matic indeed has a TC drain plug, but its impossible to get a tool/bit in there so i couldn't drain it last time. After oil pump removal one gets sight of the TC drain plug But alas, it is impossible to insert a tool, or even a sawed off bit for that matter. Why would MB play such mind games
I am thinking for next service, to drill/carve out the Alu access hole a bit so i can get to it. Not planning on selling the car as its been so reliable throughout all these years.
Just my thoughts.
To the OP's original question: I (my wife actually) has been fortunate with our GLK. It is indeed very reliable and we've put on some 70K mi since purchased used in '14 with 41K mi on it at the time. Technically, we had 0 issues. The interior however is not S-class quality (of course). The top layer of the plastic buttons for windows and locks are coming off and i had to replace the drivers seat bottom due to excessive wear of the "MB-Tex" fabric. Replaced it with aftermarket (eBay) real leather for a great look and feel. So far it looks OEM and its holding up great. I do all my own maintenance and repairs on my Benzes, including trans service (have several Gs, Mogs etc.) and i agree with GLKattitude, trans service is intimidating the first time around but using a laser temp and hand pump you should be fine. There are several write-ups of this procedure online and i can share mine with you as well if you need it. I do this on my Gs as well with no issues btw.
I think, like with any car, it comes down to luck and proper research on the exact vehicle you end up purchasing. Just because my GLK is a gem, doesn't mean the one you'll find on Craigslist is similar. Just a disclaimer
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