Last updated: 2026-07-26

Buick Envision vs Mercedes-Benz GLB: Reliability Compared

More ReliableBuick Envision reliability comparison

Buick Envision

77
GoodReliability score: 77 out of 100, rated Good
VS
Mercedes-Benz GLB reliability comparison

Mercedes-Benz GLB

69
GoodReliability score: 69 out of 100, rated Good

Choosing between the Buick Envision 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 midsize suvs.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Buick Envision currently leads with an average score of 77/100 compared to 69/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

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

As of 2026, the Buick Envision is in its second generation, which debuted in 2021 and received a significant refresh in 2024. This places the Envision relatively early in its generation cycle, which can sometimes mean early production issues have been addressed, but it may still be less mature compared to later in the cycle. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz GLB is still within its first generation, which started in 2019 and underwent a facelift in 2023. Being later in its generation, the GLB benefits from a more mature platform, often leading to improved reliability as initial issues are typically resolved by this stage.

Verdict

The Buick Envision is more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz GLB, scoring 77/100 vs 69/100.

The Buick Envision demonstrates stronger reliability with an average score of 77/100 compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLB's 69/100. Despite being on the market longer, the Envision has faced only six recalls over nine years, whereas the GLB has encountered 30 recalls in just five years. Additionally, the Envision's owner complaint rate of 4.9 per 10,000 sold is significantly lower than the GLB's 9.9, and its annual repair costs are estimated at $573, notably less than the GLB's $908. Overall, the Envision offers a more reliable choice with fewer issues and lower maintenance expenses.

Key Differences

  1. 1Buick Envision costs $335 less per year to repair
  2. 2Buick Envision has 24 fewer total recalls
  3. 3Buick Envision scores 8 points higher in reliability

Category Scoreboard

4Buick Envision
—
0Mercedes-Benz GLB
Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint RateAnnual Repair Cost

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

Buick Envision vs Mercedes-Benz GLB at-a-glance reliability comparison
MetricBuick EnvisionMercedes-Benz GLB
Reliability Score77/10069/100
Years Tracked95
Total Recalls630
Complaints per 10k Sold4.99.9
Annual Repair Cost$573/yr$908/yr
Year Wins4 (1 tied)0 (1 tied)

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

The Buick Envision and Mercedes-Benz GLB exhibit distinct problem profiles, with the Envision experiencing higher complaints in the electrical system (23) and power train (15), including one crash-linked incident. In contrast, the GLB's issues are more concentrated in the "unknown or other" category (20) and electrical system (16), although it reports fewer power train problems (6). Notably, the Envision has more crash-linked complaints in the air bags category (3) compared to the GLB's one, potentially indicating a higher safety concern. Both models have similar engine complaint frequencies, but the Envision's higher number of crash-linked air bag issues suggests a critical area of concern not as prevalent in the GLB.

Buick Envision vs Mercedes-Benz GLB common problem areas comparison
ComponentBuick EnvisionMercedes-Benz GLB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM0.9Very Low1.4Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER0.4Very Low1.7Low
ENGINE0.4Very Low0.9Very Low
POWER TRAIN0.6Very Low0.5Very Low
STRUCTURE—None1.1Low
AIR BAGS0.3Very Low0.6Very Low
SUSPENSION0.2Very Low0.6Very Low
STEERING0.3Very Low0.4Very Low
SERVICE BRAKES0.5Very Low—None
FUEL SYSTEM0.1Very Low0.3Very Low
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE—None0.3Very Low
TIRES0.2Very Low—None
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL—None0.2Very Low
LANE DEPARTURE0.1Very Low—None
BACK OVER PREVENTION0.1Very Low—None
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM0.1Very Low—None

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

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

Based on independent repair cost data, the Buick Envision has an annual repair cost of $573 and a repair frequency of 0.4 visits per year. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz GLB incurs a higher annual repair cost of $908. Over five years, this equates to a $1,675 difference, favoring the Envision. While specific data on the repair frequency and major repair risk for the GLB is unavailable, the Envision's lower repair frequency suggests fewer trips to the repair shop. For cost-conscious buyers, the Buick Envision offers better value, with lower annual repair costs and less frequent repairs. This makes it a more economical choice in terms of maintenance and repair expenses compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLB.

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

Buick Envision vs Mercedes-Benz GLB year-by-year reliability scores
YearBuick EnvisionMercedes-Benz GLBEdge
202476/1001R / 10C72/1001R / 4CBuick Envision
202376/1001R / 22C74/1000R / 12CBuick Envision
202275/1001R / 23C75/1000R / 13CTie
202174/1002R / 23C65/10010R / 30CBuick Envision
202078/1000R / 10C59/10019R / 56CBuick Envision

Best years to cross-shop: The 2020 Buick Envision scored 78/100 and the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB scored 75/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Buick Envision vs the Mercedes-Benz GLB?

If you prioritize reliability and cost-effectiveness, the Buick Envision is a more suitable choice. With a reliability score of 77 out of 100, it surpasses the Mercedes-Benz GLB, which scores 69. The Envision also has fewer recalls (6 compared to the GLB's 30) and lower owner complaints at 4.9 per 10,000 sold. Additionally, its estimated annual repair cost is $573, significantly less than the GLB’s $908. These factors make the Envision a solid option if you want a dependable vehicle with manageable maintenance expenses. On the other hand, if your preference leans towards premium features and brand prestige, and you are willing to accept higher maintenance costs, the Mercedes-Benz GLB might appeal to you. However, be prepared for a higher frequency of issues, particularly with the electrical system and structure, as indicated by the model's recall and complaint history. This choice is better suited for those who value luxury and are less concerned about potential repair costs and reliability.

Buick Envision vs Mercedes-Benz GLB: Common Questions

Is the Buick Envision more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz GLB?
Based on our data, the Buick Envision is more reliable with an average score of 77/100 compared to 69/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Buick Envision or the Mercedes-Benz GLB?
The Mercedes-Benz GLB has more recalls (30) compared to the Buick Envision (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 Envision or the Mercedes-Benz GLB?
Adjusted for sales volume, the Buick Envision has a lower complaint rate at 4.9 per 10,000 vehicles sold versus 9.9 for the Mercedes-Benz GLB. Normalizing by sales gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Buick Envision or the Mercedes-Benz GLB?
Based on independent repair cost estimates, the Buick Envision is cheaper to maintain at $573/year versus $908/year for the Mercedes-Benz GLB.

Related Reliability Comparisons

Decided between Buick Envision and Mercedes-Benz GLB? Run a VIN check before you buy — uncover hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

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

3

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.

4

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.

See incorrect data? Report an issue