Last updated: 2026-10-10
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB Reliability Report
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB rates mixed and well below other 2020 SUVs, mainly for loose rear spoilers and airbag warnings that keep returning.
Recalls
19
Complaints
56
Complaint Rate
24.2per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$908
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,850
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
The weakest of the five scored GLB years, with loose rear spoilers, blank instrument clusters and airbag warnings that keep returning.
Top Issues to Watch
- STRUCTURE (13)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9)
- AIR BAGS (7)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2020 is the first model year of the First generation (X247; 2019).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2020 model year.
- Refreshed in 2024.
- 1st generation GLB (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2020 pricing and recall counts against 2021+ before deciding.
2020: First generation (X247; 2019) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB?
Think twice before buying this one. Reliability is mixed, and it falls well below average among 2020 SUVs. It is also the weakest of the five scored GLB years. The 2021 rates better, with 30 complaints and 10 recalls against 56 complaints and 19 recalls here.
The most common trouble is exterior trim coming loose. The rear spoiler above the liftgate can detach at speed or lift when the liftgate opens, and some owners found scratches or gouges on the roof. These failures cluster between roughly 35,000 and 47,000 miles. Some owners wait a long time for recall parts, and others say their VIN was not covered even though the spoiler failed. The instrument cluster can also go blank while driving, sometimes after a car wash. Airbag warnings return after dealer repairs, and one crash report describes side airbags that did not deploy.
Ask for proof that every open recall is closed, especially in the structure, electrical and air bag areas. Ask for service records showing any airbag warning light repairs. Look hard at the roof and spoiler. If you have the choice, the 2021 is the safer bet.
Compared to the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, which scored 6 points higher.
Pros
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Above-average recall count
- −STRUCTURE: Exterior trim comes loose, most often the rear spoiler above the liftgate (13 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER: These complaints cover unrelated problems (10 complaints)
- −1 fire incident reported in owner complaints
Compare 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB With
2020 Cadillac XT4
Reliability: 68/100
2020 Buick Envision
Reliability: 78/100
2020 Cadillac XT6
Reliability: 72/100
2020 Infiniti QX60
Reliability: 74/100
2020 Buick Encore GX
Reliability: 70/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 19 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- STRUCTURE (13)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (10)
Recall Overview
19
recalls on record
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB has 19 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
24.2
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 20.2
Safety Incidents
2
Crashes
1
Fires
3
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB Recall Details
19 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLB 250 vehicles. The accessory power outlet for the second-row seating may have excessive voltage due to an incorrect voltage converter socket.
Consequence
Excessive voltage through the accessory power outlet to a connected device can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the voltage converter, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021080005.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, EQUIPMENT
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 A220, 2020 CLA250, GLB250, AMG A35, AMG CLA45, AMG CLA35, and 2021 GLA250 vehicles. The vehicles may not be equipped with an inspection gauge to check the wear of the rear brake pads. In addition, information for using this inspection gauge might not be included in the owner's manual. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Consequence
Driving with worn brake pads can reduce braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install an inspection gauge and provide supplemental owner's manual information, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 29, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, COMMUNICATION
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.
Consequence
A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.
Showing 10 of 19 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
Buying a used 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB? Check its history first
Structure problems lead owner complaints about the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB, and 19 recalls were issued for it. A VIN check shows whether this car's recall work was done, plus accident, title, and odometer history.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Mercedes-Benz GLBRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$908
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
26 MPG
Running cost: $3,750/yr
Fuel + repair
23 city / 30–31 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2020 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GLB250 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM8) | 23 | 30 | 26 | $2,850 |
| GLB250 4matic 2.0L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM8) | 23 | 31 | 26 | $2,850 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB.
Push on the rear spoiler above the liftgate, check for gaps, and look for scratches on the roof.
Open the power liftgate fully, then test that it stops and reverses when it meets an obstruction.
Run the VIN through federal recall records and ask for dealer paperwork showing every campaign was completed.
Start the car and confirm no airbag malfunction warning appears. Ask whether airbag repairs were repeated.
Request service records for cylinder head or exhaust valve work, and listen for engine knock or stumbling.
Drive at highway speed and confirm the car tracks straight with no cracking noise from the front end.
Watch the instrument cluster through the whole test drive and confirm it never blanks or fills with warnings.
Smell the cabin for gasoline and check under the car for fuel drips after it has been parked.
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB Common Problems by Component
56 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STRUCTURE
13 complaintsExterior trim comes loose, most often the rear spoiler above the liftgate. It detaches at speed or lifts when the liftgate opens, and several reports describe scratches or gouges on the roof. Spoiler failures cluster between roughly 35,000 and 47,000 miles. On nearly new cars, front bumper trim and a front fender flare come off on the highway. A piece flying off in traffic makes other drivers swerve. Several complaints are about long waits for spoiler recall parts. Other owners say their VIN was not covered even though their spoiler failed the same way.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
10 complaintsSafety-relatedThese complaints cover unrelated problems. The most serious is an under-hood fire that starts while the car idles parked, destroying it and damaging a home. A power liftgate traps a person reaching into the cargo area, causing an injury. Panoramic sunroof glass shatters with nothing hitting it. Other reports describe a musty or smoky smell from the A/C vents that returns after cleaning, the transmission dropping into neutral on the highway, wind squeal from a windshield gap above 75 mph, and a bent brake cover rubbing a tire.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
9 complaintsThe instrument cluster goes blank while driving, leaving no speed or fuel readings. Several cases follow a car wash. Some owners say their VIN falls outside the related recall, and others report the recall staying open after dealer visits or parts being unavailable. In one report, every warning light comes on at once, and the car will not shift, start or shut off, and the steering locks. A check engine light and a failed A/C control module show up within the first 1,500 miles.
AIR BAGS (7 complaints)
AIR BAGS
7 complaintsSafety-relatedAirbag malfunction warnings keep coming back, especially for the left curtain airbag and the front passenger side. Dealer repairs, including one airbag replacement, clear the light only for days or weeks. Warnings appear as early as the first week of ownership. One crash report describes side airbags not deploying in a roughly 35 mph impact during a left turn, with 2 people injured and the driver hitting the door.
ENGINE (4 complaints)
ENGINE
4 complaintsCylinder head and valve failures cause lost compression, loss of power, stalling and engine knock. One head fails at 50,000 miles, and replacement parts are on back order. Owners describe disputes over whether an extended warranty covers the head. One owner says a dealer will not perform a recall until the engine is fixed. In another case, the dealer first suspects the cylinder head and later blames fuel pump wiring at 23,660 miles, quoting an out-of-pocket repair.
STEERING (3 complaints)
STEERING
3 complaintsSafety-relatedThe front axle fails and the driver loses steering control. In one crash at about 45 mph, the front axle fractures and separates, and the car hits the median at around 22,300 miles. Owners tie this to a front axle and steering recall, and some report that parts for the repair are not available. Another car will not hold its lane, makes a cracking noise under the driver side and triggers frequent Attention Assist alerts. Repeat dealer inspections do not fix it.
SUSPENSION (3 complaints)
SUSPENSION
3 complaintsThe front axle carrier fails, causing a loss of steering control. In one case the car hits a curb but does not crash. The owner links this to a recall for corrosion of the integral carrier that supports the front axle. The front and rear control arms squeak over speed bumps and in turns. One complaint filed here is really about the engine. It describes exhaust valve and cylinder head repairs under extended warranty, later camshaft and rocker arm damage, and a dispute over who pays.
FUEL SYSTEM (3 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
3 complaintsA strong gasoline smell fills the cabin. In one case, a large fuel leak forces a tow at 11,820 miles. Another car has the same smell at about 45,000 miles, and the dealer cannot find the cause after three visits. In a separate case, the engine shakes and stalls at around 30 mph with the check engine light on. It happens again and again, and the dealer diagnoses the fuel injectors and gas cap.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V732000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic, Equipment); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250. The contact stated while the vehicle was at a stop light, the accelerator pedal was depressed however, the vehicle lunged backward. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact depressed the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed by the dealer that the failure could not be duplicated. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 50,307.
When Do 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Mercedes-Benz GLB Years
Best Mercedes-Benz GLB Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreMercedes-Benz GLB Years to Avoid
2020
(Current Model)
Mercedes-Benz GLB Reliability Score Trend
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 72/100 | Good |
Mercedes-Benz GLB Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB?
Does the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB have rear spoiler problems?
Does the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB have airbag problems?
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB better than the 2020?
Don’t buy a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
How we score the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB
Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB does best on how many systems draw complaints (84/100) and worst on recall impact (46/100). Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.
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