Is the Buick Encore GX more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz GLB?

Based on our data, the Buick Encore GX is more reliable with an average score of 76/100 compared to 69/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.

Which has more recalls, the Buick Encore GX or the Mercedes-Benz GLB?

The Mercedes-Benz GLB has more recalls (30) compared to the Buick Encore GX (6). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.

Which has fewer owner complaints, the Buick Encore GX or the Mercedes-Benz GLB?

Adjusted for sales volume, the Buick Encore GX has a lower complaint rate at 6.4 per 10,000 vehicles sold versus 9.9 for the Mercedes-Benz GLB. Normalizing by sales gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Last updated: 2026-07-26

Buick Encore GX vs Mercedes-Benz GLB: Reliability Compared

More Reliable

Buick Encore GX

Good

Mercedes-Benz GLB

Good

Choosing between the Buick Encore GX and the Mercedes-Benz GLB? This page compares their reliability scores, NHTSA recall history, owner-reported complaints, and estimated annual repair costs so you can make a confident long-term ownership decision between these two compact suvs.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Buick Encore GX currently leads with an average score of 76/100 compared to 69/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Buick Encore GX and Mercedes-Benz GLB Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Buick Encore GX is in its first generation, which began in 2020. It received a significant refresh in 2024. Being relatively early in its generation cycle, the Encore GX may still experience some teething issues typical of newer platforms, although the 2024 refresh likely addressed initial concerns, potentially improving reliability. The Mercedes-Benz GLB is also in its first generation, which started in 2019 and is approaching the end of its cycle in 2026. It underwent a facelift in 2023. This mature platform generally benefits from improved reliability as initial issues have likely been resolved, making it a well-sorted choice for buyers seeking stability.

Verdict

The Buick Encore GX is more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz GLB, scoring 76/100 vs 69/100.

The Buick Encore GX outperforms the Mercedes-Benz GLB in reliability, with a higher average reliability score of 76/100 compared to the GLB's 69/100. The Encore GX also has fewer recalls over a longer period, with only 6 recalls across 7 years, while the GLB has faced 30 recalls in just 5 years. Additionally, owner complaints per 10,000 sold are lower for the Encore GX at 6.4, versus 9.9 for the GLB. Although repair costs for the Encore GX are not specified, the GLB's estimated annual repair cost is $908, which may be a consideration for potential buyers.

Key Differences

1Buick Encore GX has 24 fewer total recalls
2Buick Encore GX scores 7 points higher in reliability
3Buick Encore GX has 3.5 fewer complaints per 10k sold

Category Scoreboard

3Buick Encore GX

—

0Mercedes-Benz GLB

Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Buick Encore GX vs Mercedes-Benz GLB: Which Is More Reliable?

Buick Encore GX vs Mercedes-Benz GLB at-a-glance reliability comparison
Metric	Buick Encore GX	Mercedes-Benz GLB
Reliability Score	76/100	69/100
Years Tracked	7	5
Total Recalls	6	30
Complaints per 10k Sold	6.4	9.9
Year Wins	4	1

What Are the Common Problems With the Buick Encore GX and Mercedes-Benz GLB?

The Buick Encore GX, with 210 total complaints, exhibits significant issues in its power train and electrical system, accounting for 47 and 40 complaints respectively. It also has notable safety-related concerns, including 19 service brake complaints with 2 linked to crashes. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz GLB, with a lower total of 115 complaints, shows a more balanced distribution across various components, with the highest complaints in the "unknown or other" category and electrical system. The GLB’s air bag category, with 7 complaints and 1 linked to a crash, suggests some safety concerns, but overall, the Encore GX presents more severe reliability issues, particularly in its power train and brakes.

Buick Encore GX vs Mercedes-Benz GLB common problem areas comparison
Component	Buick Encore GX	Mercedes-Benz GLB
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	0.9Very Low	1.7Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	1.2Low	1.4Low
POWER TRAIN	1.4Low	0.5Very Low
ENGINE	0.7Very Low	0.9Very Low
STRUCTURE	—None	1.1Low
AIR BAGS	0.1Very Low	0.6Very Low
STEERING	0.2Very Low	0.4Very Low
SERVICE BRAKES	0.6Very Low	—None
SUSPENSION	—None	0.6Very Low
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	0.1Very Low	0.2Very Low
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE	—None	0.3Very Low
FUEL SYSTEM	—None	0.3Very Low
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	0.2Very Low	—None
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	0.1Very Low	—None
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	0.1Very Low	—None
EQUIPMENT	0.1Very Low	—None

Complaints per 10,000 units sold, aggregated across all tracked model years from NHTSA owner reports.

Which Is Cheaper to Maintain: Buick Encore GX or Mercedes-Benz GLB?

The Mercedes-Benz GLB has an annual repair cost of $908, according to independent repair cost data. Unfortunately, specific data for the Buick Encore GX isn't available, which makes a direct comparison challenging. However, Mercedes vehicles are generally known for higher repair and maintenance costs compared to more mainstream brands like Buick. Over five years, the GLB's repair costs could amount to approximately $4,540. Without specific repair frequency and major repair risk details for either vehicle, it's reasonable to assume that the Buick Encore GX, being a less premium brand, might offer a lower cost of ownership, making it a potentially better value for cost-conscious buyers focused on minimizing long-term maintenance expenses.

How Does Buick Encore GX vs Mercedes-Benz GLB Reliability Compare by Year?

Buick Encore GX vs Mercedes-Benz GLB year-by-year reliability scores
Year	Buick Encore GX	Mercedes-Benz GLB	Edge
2024	77/1001R / 27C	72/1001R / 4C	Buick Encore GX
2023	79/1000R / 23C	74/1000R / 12C	Buick Encore GX
2022	74/1001R / 29C	75/1000R / 13C	Mercedes-Benz GLB
2021	74/1002R / 50C	65/10010R / 30C	Buick Encore GX
2020	70/1002R / 66C	59/10019R / 56C	Buick Encore GX

Best years to cross-shop: The 2023 Buick Encore GX scored 79/100 and the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB scored 75/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Buick Encore GX vs the Mercedes-Benz GLB?

If you prioritize reliability and a lower likelihood of recalls, the Buick Encore GX could be the better choice for you. With a reliability score of 76/100 and only six recalls, it offers a more dependable experience. The Encore GX has fewer owner complaints at 6.4 per 10,000 sold, suggesting a smoother ownership experience. However, be mindful of potential issues with the power train and electrical system. On the other hand, if you are drawn to premium features and are willing to manage higher maintenance costs, consider the Mercedes-Benz GLB. Despite its lower reliability score of 69/100 and a higher recall count of 30, it provides luxury brand appeal. Expect an estimated annual repair cost of $908 and a higher complaint rate of 9.9 per 10,000 sold. Choose the GLB if you value brand prestige and are prepared for potential upkeep challenges.

Buick Encore GX vs Mercedes-Benz GLB: Common Questions

Is the Buick Encore GX more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz GLB?: Based on our data, the Buick Encore GX is more reliable with an average score of 76/100 compared to 69/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Buick Encore GX or the Mercedes-Benz GLB?: The Mercedes-Benz GLB has more recalls (30) compared to the Buick Encore GX (6). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.
Which has fewer owner complaints, the Buick Encore GX or the Mercedes-Benz GLB?: Adjusted for sales volume, the Buick Encore GX has a lower complaint rate at 6.4 per 10,000 vehicles sold versus 9.9 for the Mercedes-Benz GLB. Normalizing by sales gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

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More Mercedes-Benz GLB comparisons

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How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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