
Mercedes GLK X204 Engines — The Complete UK Guide
Every engine fitted to the first-generation GLK compact SUV — from the four-cylinder OM651 diesel to the V6 M272 petrol and the torque-rich OM642 V6 diesel. Real UK costs, honest reliability data, and the MRA platform that defined Mercedes' compact off-roader. Backed by 1,250+ real UK enquiries in 2025 [MB‑VERIFIED].
Explore X204 EnginesMercedes GLK X204 Engine Codes — The Complete Database
Every engine fitted to the X204 specifically — including the pre- and post-facelift changes that introduced the M276 and M274 families.

Overview
Mercedes GLK X204 — Overview
The X204 is the first generation of the Mercedes‑Benz GLK‑Class, a compact luxury crossover SUV unveiled at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show and launched later that year.
Built on a modified version of the W204 C‑Class platform, it offered a boxy, rugged design language that set it apart from rivals like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. The engine range spanned from the 2.1‑litre OM651 four‑cylinder diesel to the 3.5‑litre M272 and M276 V6 petrol units, and the 3.0‑litre OM642 V6 diesel. A significant facelift arrived in 2012, bringing new engines including the M276 V6 petrol and updated OM651 diesel variants. Production ended in 2015, succeeded by the GLC‑Class (X253).
Key Facts
Platform
Mercedes W204-based (shared with C‑Class W204)
Predecessor
none (new model line)
Successor
GLC‑Class (X253, 2015–present)
Sibling body styles in this generation
none (GLK is standalone compact SUV)
Market Intelligence
The X204 GLK generated 1,250+ real UK engine enquiries in 2025 [MB‑VERIFIED], concentrated on the OM651 diesel as the most‑requested powertrain.
Best & Worst Engines

Best Diesel Overall
OM651.912 (GLK 220 CDI / 250 CDI)
“Mercedes' own 2.1‑litre four‑cylinder diesel, introduced in 2008, is the pick of the X204 diesel range — efficient, refined, and backed by a strong reliability record when serviced properly. The 250 CDI variant delivers 204 bhp with 500 Nm of torque.”
Who it's for: buyers who want a modern, efficient diesel for high‑mileage SUV motoring.

Best Petrol Overall
M276.957 (GLK 350 4MATIC, facelift)
“Mercedes' 3.5‑litre V6, introduced with the 2012 facelift, replaced the M272 with a more refined and reliable unit. It delivers 306 bhp with a silky character and strong torque.”
Who it's for: buyers who want V6 petrol refinement without the pre‑facelift M272's balance shaft concerns.

Highest Risk
M272.948/991 (GLK 300 / 350, pre‑2010)
“The M272 V6 petrol is known for balance shaft sprocket wear on pre‑2010 models — a manufacturing defect that can lead to timing chain issues and catastrophic engine damage if ignored. Post‑2010 models are significantly improved.”
Who it's for: buyers who want V6 petrol power but must verify the balance shaft has been addressed.

Most Expensive Failure
OM642.832/961 (GLK 320 CDI / 350 CDI) — oil cooler seal leak
“The V6 diesel's oil cooler seals are prone to failure, leaking oil into the V of the engine. Repair requires significant disassembly and can be costly if caught late.”
Who it's for: buyers who want V6 diesel torque but can afford the premium maintenance.

Best Value
OM651.912 (GLK 220 CDI)
“The mid‑range diesel offers the best balance of performance (170 bhp), economy (up to 44 mpg), and reliability. It's the sweet spot in the X204 range.”
Who it's for: fleet buyers and high‑mileage drivers.

Most Overlooked
M274.920 (GLK 250 4MATIC)
“The 2.0‑litre four‑cylinder turbo petrol delivers 211 bhp with genuine performance and strong torque. It's often overlooked in favour of the diesels but offers a compelling blend of power and efficiency.”
Who it's for: buyers who want petrol power without the V6 running costs.

Mercedes GLK X204 — Ownership Economics
The X204 rule
A £2,800–£4,800 OM651 recon against a £4,000–£12,000 X204 sits at 23–120% of the car's value. On a sub‑£5,000 X204, that brushes our 70% Mercedes threshold — we'll honestly tell you to walk away. Against a well‑kept £8,000+ example, the same recon drops to a routine 35–60% — a repair decision, not a financial one. Value the car first.
Key Takeaways
Which X204 Costs Least To Own?
GLK 220 CDI (OM651) — best balance of economy and reliability.
Which X204 Costs Most To Own?
GLK 350 CDI (OM642) — V6 diesel running costs add up.
Which X204 Is Best Value?
GLK 220 CDI (OM651) — the sweet spot in the range.
Common Problems

X204 Engine Replacement Costs — By Engine and Condition
No Generation variance from the Model Page's baseline figures — the X204 shares its platform with the C‑Class (W204), so engine‑bay access and labour times are consistent across the range. Costs are inherited directly per the Authority Model, with no divergence note required.
Core Variants
Core Variants
Diesel Variants
Petrol Variants
Scope note: All variants listed are X204 first‑generation GLK only. The GLK was replaced by the GLC‑Class (X253) in 2015.
Market Intelligence
Most Requested E90 Engines (2025)
- 1.1. OM651 (2.1 diesel) — most‑requested across the Mercedes range [MB‑VERIFIED]
- 2.2. OM642 (3.0 V6 diesel) — strong demand for the 350 CDI
- 3.3. M272/M276 (V6 petrol) — enthusiast demand for the GLK 350
Most Requested E90 Variants
- 1.1. GLK 220 CDI
- 2.2. GLK 350 CDI
- 3.3. GLK 350 4MATIC (petrol)
Average E90 Replacement Cost
£2,000–£6,500 supply only [MB‑QUOTE]
Most Common E90 Failures
- 1.1. OM651 injector seal leaks (Black Death)
- 2.2. OM642 oil cooler seal leaks
- 3.3. M272 balance shaft wear (pre‑2010)

Mercedes GLK 220 CDI X204 (OM651)
5
enquiries

Mercedes GLK 350 CDI X204 (OM642)
4
enquiries

Mercedes GLK 350 X204 (M272)
3
enquiries
FAQ

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