2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light On in 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG: Causes and Solutions

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG 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 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG 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 when a 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG has a check engine light?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG, the first step is to check for a loose gas cap, as this common issue can easily trigger the warning. Next, inspect the dashboard for any additional warning lights that may offer further insights into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is crucial; by connecting it to the vehicle's diagnostic port, you can retrieve error codes that indicate specific malfunctions. Once you have the error codes, interpreting them will help you understand the underlying issue. Additionally, ensure that essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can also activate the check engine light. Finally, conduct a visual inspection of the wiring and connections in the engine bay for any signs of damage or corrosion, which could lead to electrical problems. By systematically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG, it serves as a crucial alert that something may be amiss under the hood. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can lead to fuel vapor leaks, triggering the light. If the gas cap is secure, consider the oxygen sensor, as a faulty one can significantly impact fuel efficiency and emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also activate the light, often due to inefficiency or failure. The mass airflow sensor is another critical component; if it malfunctions, it can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, affecting engine performance. Misfires caused by faulty spark plugs or ignition coils are common culprits as well, leading to noticeable performance issues. Other potential triggers include EGR valve malfunctions, thermostat failures, and even transmission problems, which can all contribute to the check engine light's activation. Lastly, issues with the electronic control module (ECM) can complicate matters further, as it oversees various engine functions. By understanding these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can take the first steps toward diagnosing and potentially resolving the issue themselves.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG, it is crucial to act swiftly. This warning light is not just a minor inconvenience; it serves as an early detection system for potential engine or emissions issues that could escalate into more severe problems if ignored. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the urgency of this situation is vital. Neglecting the check engine light can compromise your vehicle's safety, leading to hazardous driving conditions for you and your passengers. Moreover, unresolved issues can result in further damage to critical components, ultimately leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Additionally, in many areas, a lit check engine light can hinder your vehicle's ability to pass emissions tests, putting you at risk of fines or penalties. Therefore, it is advisable to diagnose and address the underlying issue as soon as possible, whether through self-diagnosis with an OBD-II scanner or by consulting a qualified mechanic, to ensure your vehicle remains safe, compliant, and in optimal working condition.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.