2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC300

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC300?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC300, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable cause of the warning light. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that could provide further insight into the issue. A visual inspection under the hood is also crucial; look for any obvious signs of damage to wires, hoses, or connectors that could be affecting vehicle performance. If these initial checks do not reveal the problem, using an OBD-II scanner is a valuable next step. This tool connects to your vehicle's diagnostic port and retrieves error codes that can pinpoint specific issues. Finally, consulting your owner's manual can offer guidance on what the check engine light signifies and suggest appropriate actions. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed steps toward resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC300?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC300, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. Understanding the common problems that may trigger this warning can empower you to take appropriate action. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which is an easy fix that can often resolve the issue simply by ensuring it is tightened properly. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also lead to increased emissions; this problem typically requires replacement to restore optimal performance. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can cause the check engine light to illuminate, as this component plays a vital role in reducing harmful emissions. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can also impact engine performance and fuel efficiency, making it another potential reason for the warning light. Furthermore, worn-out spark plugs can lead to engine misfires, prompting the check engine light to activate. Lastly, an engine misfire itself, which can stem from various ignition or fuel-related issues, is a significant trigger for the check engine light. By diagnosing these common issues, you can take steps to address them, ensuring your GLC300 runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC300?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC300, it is crucial to take immediate action rather than dismissing it as a minor inconvenience. This warning light is a vital indicator of underlying issues that could range from simple sensor malfunctions to more serious engine or emissions system failures. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to exacerbated problems, resulting in costly repairs and potentially compromising the vehicle's safety and drivability. For DIY enthusiasts, addressing this warning promptly allows for early diagnosis and resolution of the issue, which can prevent further damage and ensure the vehicle operates at its best. By prioritizing the check engine light, you not only safeguard your investment but also enhance your driving experience, making it essential to act swiftly and effectively.

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