DIY Maintenance on GLC 300: Oil Changes
Regular oil changes are one of the simplest yet most important ways to keep your vehicle in top condition. High quality oil that is regularly changed will extend the life of your engine and avoid expensive repairs to engine components that would corrode without it.
What Does Oil Do In a Car?
Oil has several functions in your car; its main purpose is to lubricate the mechanical parts of your engine, including pistons, camshafts, and valves. Adequate lubrication between these metal components ensures smooth operating and reduces wear due to friction.
By reducing friction, oil also helps to cool your vehicle. Oil absorbs some of the heat that is generated in the engine block and transfers it back to the oil pan, where it dissipates.
Finally, oil keeps your engine clean by preventing sludge and build-up. Additives in the oil, such as detergents or other cleaning agents, prevent residue build up from varnish and other deposits.
What Kind of Oil Should I Use in My Car?
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The exact oil you need will depend on several factors, namely the kind of engine you have, how often you drive, and the climate you live in.
Motor oil comes in different grades according to viscosity-that is, the thickness or thinness of the fluid. The grade of fuel you need can be found in your owner’s manual.
In addition to different grades, there are three main categories of oil to choose from:
Conventional Oil
Conventional motor oil is derived from refined crude oil. It is the cheapest oil you can buy, but it is generally not recommended for newer engines. These oils tend to be thicker and flow more slowly, increasing engine susceptibility to wear-and-tear. Inconsistent oil circulation can cause problems, like blockages, especially in lower temperatures.
You will also need to change the oil in your car more frequently if you are using conventional oil.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is man-made, although it may use ultra-refined crude oil as a base. It is exceptionally uniform on a molecular level and contains performance-enhancing additives, like castor waxes and paraffinic oils. For these reasons, synthetic oil is often the preference when it comes to extending the life of your engine. It is, however, more expensive than conventional oils or synthetic blends.
Synthetic Blends
As the name suggests, synthetic oil blends are a mixture of crude-derived oil and man-made lubricant. These offer many of the performance-enhancing additives of pure synthetic with a somewhat lower price tag, since it is cut with cheaper conventional oil.
Changing Oil in the Mercedes 2020 GLC 300
First, you will want to be sure you have the proper parts and equipment:
Synthetic Motor Oil
When performing DIY maintenance on GLC models, Mercedes recommends using a fully synthetic oil for its vehicles. For your GLC 300, you will need 6.3 quarts of a high quality synthetic oil designed for newer European cars, such as Mobil 1 ESP X2 0W-20.
Oil Filter
You will need to replace your filter with a new one, preferably a genuine Mercedes-Benz fleece oil filter.
Crush Washer
You will need to replace the crush washer that accompanies the oil drain plug. This may come with your filter or you can purchase one separately..
Other Equipment
- Drain Pan
- 27 mm socket wrench
- Regular wrench to remove drain plug
- Plastic funnel
- Gloves (optional, but recommended)
- Flathead screwdriver
Directions to Replace 2020 GLC 300 Oil Filter
- Remove the plastic cover that protects the oil filter. You can use a simple flathead screwdriver to pop the retaining clip on the right hand side. Slide the screwdriver under the top of the plastic pin and lift it out. Then, wedge the screwdriver under the clip and lift up.
There are two additional clips on the left hand side. These can be loosened by hand, simply by prying upward with your fingers.
- Move the loosened cover to one side. You should now have access to the oil filter.
- Use your 27 mm socket wrench to loosen the bolt on top of the filter.
- Remove the filter along with the housing for easy disassembly.
- Remove the old gaskets (there are 3) with your screwdriver and replace with new ones. Your filter should come with fresh gaskets. If it doesn’t, purchase them separately. It is important not to skip this step if you want to avoid leaks.
- Slide the new filter on and put the unit back in the car. Tighten well with your socket wrench and replace the covering and retaining clips.
Steps To Change the Oil of 2020 GLC 300 Mercedes
- Remove the plastic skid plate underneath the car. It is attached by four 8 mm screws in the front, and another four in the back.
- You should now be able to see the oil drain plug. Loosen this with your wrench or a 13 mm socket wrench and slide your drain pain underneath before removing completely.
- Allow oil to drain out.
- Put your new crush washer on the drain plug and replace it.
- Replace the plastic skid plate.
- Pop the hood of the car and unscrew the oil cap. Fill with new synthetic oil.
- Replace cap and close hood.
How Often Do I Need to Replace Oil in My Car?
Mercedes recommends changing the oil in your GLC300 every 7500 to 10,000 miles. If you are using conventional oil, you will need to change it more frequently (every 3000-5000 miles). You should be changing the filter at least every second oil change, but it is a good idea to replace it every time you change the oil.
Get Your Oil Changed at Mercedes-Benz of Littleton
Oil changes with premium grade oils as well as new filters, gaskets, and washers are part of the Mercedes-Benz of Littleton Service A and Service B. If you are approaching another 10,000 miles on your Mercedes, let us take care of your oil change and other essential maintenance to keep your luxury vehicle running like new. Call or go online to schedule your service today.
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