2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC hybrid: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the hybrid Mercedes-Benz GLC first registered in 2021 (hybrid cars only): we looked at the 2,378 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Common 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC hybrid MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC hybrid MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Tyres23% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Brakes5% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors3% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
- Lights and electrics2% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Seats and seatbelts2% of testsRough price £80–£250
At the viewing: Pull each seatbelt sharply. It should lock, and retract cleanly.
- Suspension1% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
Known faults on the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC hybrid
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- All engines
Many recalls (16)
The GLC has had 16 recalls, covering leaking fuel pumps, ESP, overheating starter motors, seatbelt pre-tensioners, airbags, the panoramic sunroof and emissions software.
At the viewing: Ask a Mercedes dealer to check the VIN for outstanding recalls.
Source: Auto Express: used Mercedes GLC (Mk1, 2015-2022) buyer’s guide
- All engines
Squeaking front brakes
Some owners have squeaky front brakes. New pads usually fix it.
At the viewing: Listen when braking gently.
Source: Auto Express: used Mercedes GLC (Mk1, 2015-2022) buyer’s guide
- All engines
Tyre scrub on full lock
Some owners report heavy tyre scrub when turning on full lock at low speed.
At the viewing: Turn on full lock in a car park and listen, and check the front tyres for uneven wear.
Source: Auto Express: used Mercedes GLC (Mk1, 2015-2022) buyer’s guide
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC hybrid
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Have all the recalls been done? Can a Mercedes dealer confirm from the VIN?
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
Looking at a Mercedes-Benz GLC?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Mercedes-Benz GLC compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2025 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2024 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2023 | 186 | Tyres 10% |
| 2022 | 7,523 | Tyres 25% |
| 2020 | 34,052 | Tyres 25% |
| 2019 | 51,503 | Tyres 25% |
| 2018 | 56,736 | Tyres 26% |
| 2017 | 37,612 | Tyres 26% |
| 2016 | 27,448 | Tyres 26% |
| 2015 | 3,979 | Tyres 27% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test done in Great Britain during 2023–2025, counting the MOTs of Mercedes-Benz GLC cars first registered in 2021. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score