Recall 21V539 affects 371 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 SUVs for transmission fluid leaks or control module failure. Repair is free at any franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer.
Mercedes-Benz is recalling 371 2013 GLK250 vehicles because the wrong transmission fluid filter and overflow pipe were installed during a service repair. A fluid leak can raise fire risk, and transmission control module failure can stall the vehicle and increase crash risk; Mercedes-Benz dealers will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The transmission fluid filter in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 automatic transmission screens debris from the fluid before it circulates through the unit. The transmission overfill tube helps set the correct fluid level during service by allowing extra fluid to drain out. Together, those parts help the transmission keep clean fluid at the right level for shifting and cooling.
On affected GLK250 vehicles, the wrong versions of the filter and overfill tube were installed during an emissions service campaign because the spare parts instructions listed the wrong components. The incorrect parts do not match the transmission's service setup. That can lead to a transmission fluid leak or interfere with the control module, the electronic unit that helps manage transmission operation.
There is no warning sign before failure. Mercedes-Benz reported that owners will not receive advance warning because of how this problem develops.
Who's affected?
| 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 | automatic transmission |
|---|---|
| Units affected | 371 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged no field incidents to date. |
Not every 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 SUV is on the list. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific SUV is included.
What's the safety risk?
A transmission fluid leak increases the risk of a fire. A transmission control module failure can also stall the vehicle and increase the risk of a crash. There is no warning sign before this failure, so schedule the recall repair promptly rather than waiting for symptoms. Repair is free at any franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 is included in this recall.
- Contact your nearest franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer to schedule the free overflow-pipe and transmission-fluid-filter replacement that fixes the leak and control-module risk.
- Bring the recall notice if Mercedes-Benz mailed one. If not, reference recall number 21V539 when you call.
- Avoid driving if you see a transmission fluid leak or the SUV stalls; contact the dealer before moving it again.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Mercedes-Benz technician replaces the overflow pipe and transmission fluid filter, then checks that the leak risk tied to the incorrect parts has been corrected. The replacement parts and labor are covered by the recall. MBUSA also plans to notify owners about reimbursement for related repairs paid before the recall notice because the condition existed before the owner letters. If you already paid for a related transmission fluid filter, overflow pipe, transmission fluid leak, or control module repair, bring receipts and repair paperwork to the service desk or contact MBUSA customer service.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| July 16, 2021 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| July 23, 2021 | Dealer notification began |
| September 3, 2021 | Owner notification mailed |
| September 10, 2021 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
| September 10, 2021 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 21V539?
Recall 21V539 covers 371 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 SUVs with 4-cylinder diesel engines. It addresses an incorrect transmission fluid filter and overflow pipe installation during a service repair, which can lead to a transmission fluid leak or transmission control module failure. Mercedes-Benz dealers will replace those parts for free.
What should I do if my 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific SUV is included in recall 21V539. If it is, contact a franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer to schedule replacement of the overflow pipe and transmission fluid filter. Reference recall number 21V539 when you call. Mercedes-Benz customer service is available at 1-800-367-6372.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires manufacturers to repair safety defects at no cost, and Mercedes-Benz states that dealers will replace the overflow pipe and transmission fluid filter free of charge. Parts and labor are covered at a franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer.
What is the safety risk?
A transmission fluid leak can increase the risk of fire. A transmission control module failure can also cause the vehicle to stall, which increases crash risk. If your VIN is included, schedule the free dealer repair and ask the service desk what to do if you see leaking fluid.
When did Mercedes-Benz notify owners?
Mercedes-Benz mailed owner notification letters on September 3, 2021. If you bought the GLK250 used or never received a letter, the VIN still decides whether this recall applies. Check your VIN, then call a franchised Mercedes-Benz dealer with recall number 21V539.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/21V539000 |
|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz customer service | 1-800-367-6372 |
| NHTSA recall # | 21V539 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 21V539000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF) - Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 20, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →