Positioning:
Compact luxury SUV known for Mercedes-Benz engineering, comfort, and off-road capability.
Competitors:
BMW X3, Audi Q5, Lexus RX, Acura RDX
Design Philosophy:
Boxy, upright styling emphasizing practicality and ruggedness, a departure from more rounded SUV designs of the era.
Off Road Capability:
Available 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, decent ground clearance for its class.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS and others), transfer case (4MATIC), clutch
Drivetrain Systems:
Front and rear axles, drive shafts, differentials, CV joints
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, power steering system, steering column
Brake Systems:
Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads), ABS, ESP, brake fluid, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control modules (BCM), comfort modules
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heater core, climate control module
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, airbags, seat belts
Infotainment Communication:
Audio system, navigation, COMAND system, Bluetooth, telematics
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing
Repair Rebuild:
Engine component repair, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, electrical component replacement
Installation Replacement:
Component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, sensors), body panel repair and replacement, interior trim installation
Wheel Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures
Tire Wheel Service:
Tire changing, balancing, wheel installation, torque specifications
Airbag System:
Airbag system diagnostics and component replacement procedures
Fuel System Service:
Fuel pump replacement, injector cleaning and replacement, fuel filter service
Cooling System:
Coolant flush and fill, radiator and water pump replacement
Lubrication Maintenance:
Greasing points, lubricant specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering all aspects from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and repairs)
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, detailed photos, exploded diagrams, torque specifications, wiring diagrams
Engine 1 Variant:
2.5L V6 M272 (GLK300)
Engine 1 Power:
Approx. 228 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 230 lb-ft @ 2500-5000 rpm
Engine 2 Variant:
3.5L V6 M272/M276 (GLK350)
Engine 2 Power:
Approx. 268 hp @ 6000 rpm (M272), 302 hp @ 6500 rpm (M276 - post-facelift)
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm (M272), 273 lb-ft @ 3500-5250 rpm (M276)
Engine 3 Variant:
2.1L 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel OM651 (GLK220 CDI, GLK250 BlueTEC)
Engine 3 Power:
Approx. 140-170 hp (GLK220 CDI), Approx. 200 hp (GLK250 BlueTEC)
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 280-310 lb-ft (GLK220 CDI), Approx. 369 lb-ft (GLK250 BlueTEC)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Direct Injection (GDI) on later models.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (GLK300/350), Diesel (CDI/BlueTEC)
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated display, radio, CD/DVD player, optional navigation, Bluetooth connectivity.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional: PARKTRONIC (parking sensors), rearview camera, adaptive cruise control (DISTRONIC PLUS on some later models).
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional media interface for iPod/USB connection.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (based on Assyst Plus system, can vary by driving conditions).
Major Service A:
Scheduled service A (e.g., oil and filter change, fluid checks, tire rotation, cabin filter replacement).
Major Service B:
Scheduled service B (includes Service A items plus brake fluid flush, more thorough inspections).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 synthetic engine oil (viscosity typically 0W-40, 5W-40, or 5W-30 depending on engine and climate).
Transmission Fluid:
MB-Approval 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC PLUS).
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., MB 325.0 or MB 326.0).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0).
Common Issues:
M272 engine balance shaft wear (older models, though less prevalent in later X204), oil cooler leaks, timing chain issues (less common), interior trim wear, potential HVAC blower motor issues, diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration problems (diesel models).