Used Mercedes-Benz GLK 320

What to know before buying: Mercedes-Benz GLK 320

From 3 forum threads and 1 press test · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• One pre-facelift GLK owner describes it as durable and easy to maintain; many parts are shared with the W204, while build and material quality are rated highly.[3]one source
• In a GLK 320 CDI discussion, the model is described as lively, with fuel consumption comparable to a normal passenger car despite its taller body.[2]one source
• It is among the smaller SUVs in its class, yet a 180 cm driver can sit behind himself; the boot is class-appropriate, and the car behaves confidently in bends and at higher speeds.[2]one source
• A GLK 350 CDI owner says automatic-transmission overhauls are rare and that differentials and electrics are generally trouble-free; this is one owner’s assessment.[1]one source

Typical faults

• Upper and lower front-axle damper mounts are reported to wear out. The source’s author encountered this on three GLKs; the repair kit may only be available as a complete bushing set.[2]one source
• On pre-facelift GLKs with the OM642 engine, the exhaust manifolds can begin to crumble.[1]one source

  OM642

• APK inspection data recorded corroded brake lines on 13% of failed 2008 cars, 9% of 2009 cars, 7% of 2010 cars, 6% of 2011 cars and 3% of 2012 cars.[4]one source

  2008–2012

• APK data recorded defective brake or parking-brake cables on 3–5% of failed 2008–2014 GLKs; on 2011–2013 cars, 3–4% had a broken cable.[4]one source

  2008–2014

Which engine and version to take

• In a discussion of the 231 hp diesel GLK 320, one owner calls the engine excellent. This is an individual forum assessment, not a comparative test.[3]one source
• As an alternative, one owner would choose the 250 CDI: it is only 40 Nm weaker, but lighter, more economical and delivers power more evenly.[2]one source

What to avoid

• One forum contributor describes the M272 350 petrol engine as a gamble; he says the direct-injection 350 CGI is unsuitable for LPG conversion.[3]one source

What to check at the inspection

• Inspect the upper and lower front-axle damper mounts, as frequent wear has been reported.[2]one source
• On an OM642 engine, inspect the exhaust manifolds for signs of crumbling or damage.[1]one source
• Check brake lines especially carefully on 2008–2012 cars, as APK data recorded corrosion for these model years.[4]one source
• Check the operation and condition of the brake and parking-brake cables; APK data includes both defective and broken cables.[4]one source
• Verify the mileage and service history: a forum contributor warns that examples with close to one million kilometres exist.[3]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]mercedes-club.by — Задумался о GLK 320/350cdi 2008-2012 - www.mercedes ... · forum
2. [2]forum.autobazar.eu — Mercedes Glk 32O cdi skusenosti - Auto-moto fórum · forum
3. [3]bmwpower-bg.net — Виж темата - отзиви за MERCEDES GLK · forum
4. [4]autozine.nl — Betrouwbaarheid Mercedes-Benz GLK · press

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