According to Au7o's analysis of 930+ owner reports, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Diesel Injector Leak and Black Death (OM651) ($400-$2,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Diesel Injector Leak and Black Death (OM651) with 550 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $400 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2010-2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class 2.1L I4 Diesel OM651, the OM651 diesel injectors in the GLK develop a condition known as "Black Death" where the copper injector sealing washers fail, allowing combustion gases to escape around the injector. The escaping gases carbonize and create hard black tar deposits around the injector bore, eventually welding the injector in place and making removal extremely difficult.
Replace the injector sealing washers and clean the injector bores of carbon deposits. If caught early, this is a relatively simple repair. Advanced cases require specialized injector extraction tools and potentially new injectors. Replace all four injector washers simultaneously to prevent repeat failures.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Corteco OM651 fuel-injector sealing ring 6110170660
OEMCorteco 6110170660
Technician-selected OM651 injector-seat repair stage using Mercedes-Benz 6110170660 Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. page identifies Corteco 6110170660, explicitly catalogs GLK250 fitment, and showed availability, price an…
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Owner tips & cautions
WarningInspect the injector area at every oil change. If you see any black deposits forming around the injectors, replace the copper washers immediately. Waiting turns a $200 repair into a $2,000 nightmare.
High Confidence550 owner reportsLast reported by owners Sep 2025Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
380 owners
On the 2010-2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, the front strut top mounts on the GLK-Class wear prematurely, producing a clunking or knocking noise over bumps and during low-speed turning. The rubber isolator within the mount hardens and cracks, transmitting road impacts directly into the body. This is especially noticeable on rough roads and at low speeds.
Replace both front strut mounts along with the strut bearings. It is recommended to replace the complete front struts at the same time if they have more than 60,000 miles. Perform a wheel alignment after strut mount replacement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Febi Bilstein X204 front strut mount/bearing A2043230120
OEMFebi Bilstein 2043230120
Confirmed failed front strut-to-body mount/bearing on the cataloged GLK250 or GLK350 branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S.
What are the most common Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 930+ owner reports, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Diesel Injector Leak and Black Death (OM651), Front Suspension Strut Mount Noise and Wear. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class reliable?
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class has 2 known issues documented across 930+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Diesel Injector Leak and Black Death (OM651). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class problems?
Repair costs for known Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class issues range from $400 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Diesel Injector Leak and Black Death (OM651), typically costs $400-$2,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2010-2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class Diesel Injector Leak and Black Death (OM651)?
The OM651 diesel injectors in the GLK develop a condition known as "Black Death" where the copper injector sealing washers fail, allowing combustion gases to escape around the injector. The escaping gases carbonize and create hard black tar deposits around the injector bore, even… Repairs typically run $400-$2,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2010-2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class Front Suspension Strut Mount Noise and Wear?
The front strut top mounts on the GLK-Class wear prematurely, producing a clunking or knocking noise over bumps and during low-speed turning. The rubber isolator within the mount hardens and cracks, transmitting road impacts directly into the body. This is especially noticeable o… Repairs typically run $400-$1,000. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
