Used Mercedes-Benz GLK 200

What to know before buying: Mercedes-Benz GLK 200

From 3 press tests · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The GLK debuted in 2008, received two facelifts and remained in production until 2015, when the GLC replaced it.[3]one sourceGLK-Class
• The GLK uses the W204 C-Class platform and was offered with three petrol and two turbodiesel engines, plus manual or automatic transmissions.[3]one sourceGLK-Class
• APK data for failed inspections show defects per GLK rising from 2.9 for 2015 cars to 3.7 for 2008 cars; routine servicing and repairs are excluded.[2]one sourceGLK-Class
• The source stresses that reported faults do not affect every GLK, so each car needs a thorough pre-purchase inspection.[1]one sourceGLK-Class

Typical faults

• Owners have reported oil leaks, particularly during sharp temperature changes.[1]one sourceGLK-Class
• The automatic transmission may jerk or make unusual noises; the source lists incorrect fluid level and faulty solenoids as possible causes.[1]one sourceGLK-Class
• Electrical faults have been reported in windows, door locks, lighting and ignition, potentially involving broken wiring or failed components.[1]one sourceGLK-Class
• Pre-2014 M274 engines are reported to suffer irregular intake-cam phaser operation and failures during cold starts regardless of mileage.[3]one sourceGLK-Class

  M274

• The OM651 turbodiesel is reported to suffer Delphi injector failures requiring injector replacement and a software update.[3]one sourceGLK-Class

  OM651

• Play in the 4MATIC left driveshaft support bearing may appear after 50,000 km; vibration can reach the sump and overheat the oil.[3]one sourceGLK-Class

  50 000+ km

• Water-pump leaks are reported after 80,000 km, accompanied by whistling and coolant droplets; replacement of the pump is required.[3]one sourceGLK-Class

  80 000+ km

Which engine and version to take

• Consider the OM651 only after injector-system diagnostics: the source credits the base diesel with a respectable 8.8-second 0–100 km/h time but warns of Delphi injector failures.[3]one sourceGLK-Class

What to avoid

• Avoid pre-2014 M274 cars without evidence of sound or repaired intake-cam phasers; the source reports failures regardless of mileage.[3]one sourceGLK-Class

What to check at the inspection

• On a cold M274, check for irregular running and verify the repair history of the intake-cam phasers.[3]one sourceGLK-Class
• For an OM651, diagnose the injectors and fuel-system software; the source links Delphi injector failures to the complex control system.[3]one sourceGLK-Class
• Test the automatic transmission in every mode; jerking or unusual noises may indicate fluid-level or solenoid problems.[1]one sourceGLK-Class
• On a 4MATIC car, inspect the left driveshaft support bearing for play and check the sump; the source recommends checking the drive every 10,000 km.[3]one sourceGLK-Class
• Check for oil, coolant and cabin-water leaks, and listen for suspension knocks; the sources identify these as GLK trouble signs.[1][3]GLK-Class
• Inspect brake pipes especially carefully on 2008–2012 cars: APK data record corrosion in 3–13% of GLKs that failed inspection.[2]one sourceGLK-Class

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]bpmers.ru — Mercedes GLK - обзор основных неисправностей · press
2. [2]autozine.nl — Betrouwbaarheid Mercedes-Benz GLK · press
3. [3]polomkiauto.ru — Неисправности и основные проблемы Mersedes-Benz GLK ... · press

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