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2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Gas
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
2 EPA-rated configurations
Data refreshed 2026-10-26
F
Safety Signal
50 / 100 from the NHTSA recall record
RecallsNHTSA campaigns 20
Complaints4 crash · 1 fire · 3 injured reported 63
Crash ratingnot rated by NHTSA —
Fuel economybest combined, EPA 26 mpg
2026202520242023202220212020

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is sold in the U.S. as a gas compact SUV with 2 EPA-rated configurations. The most efficient version, the GLB250, is EPA-rated at 26 mpg combined. NHTSA lists 20 recall campaigns for this model year, which gives it a Safety Signal grade of F. Owners have filed 63 complaints, most often about the structure.

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class — photograph via Wikimedia Commons
Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class · Photo: Alexander Migl · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Specs & fuel economy

Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov
ConfigurationPowertrainDriveEngine / motorCityHwyCombAnnual fuel*
GLB250GasFWD2.0L 4-cyl turbo233026$3,150
GLB250 4maticGas4WD2.0L 4-cyl turbo233126$3,150

*EPA estimate at 15,000 miles/year at EPA reference fuel and electricity prices. fueleconomy.gov record ids: 42180, 42184.

Emissions & certification

Source: EPA emission certificates
ConfigurationSmog ratingEmission standardWhere it can be sold newSmartWay
GLB250, GLB250 4matic5 / 10California LEV-III ULEV70 / Federal Tier 3 Bin 70All 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standards—

Certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S.

The smog rating scores tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, 1 (worst) to 10 (best), and is comparable only within a model year. The standard is the federal bin or California tier the configuration was certified to. Both come from the EPA certificate behind the window sticker.

Specifications filed with NHTSA

Source: NHTSA vPIC

Dimensions Exterior

Body styleSport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Doors4
GVWR classClass 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)

Engine Basics

Cylinders4
Displacement2 L
Engine configurationIn-Line

Engine Output

Horsepower221 hp

Fuel Economy

FuelGasoline

Seating

Seat rows2
Seating capacity5 seats

Transmission

DrivetrainFWD/Front-Wheel Drive
TransmissionAutomated Manual Transmission (AMT)
Transmission speeds8

Driver assistance

Standard: Adaptive cruise control, Anti-lock brakes, Backup camera, Electronic stability control, Pedestrian automatic emergency braking

Filed by the manufacturer with NHTSA under the federal vehicle-identification rule and decoded from the VIN pattern — not a manufacturer press kit, so it describes the configurations we could identify rather than every trim (seen: GLB250, GLB250-4M). Figures for the trim you are looking at may differ.

Dimensions & weight

Source: Transport Canada
Length182.3 in
Width (body, without mirrors)72.0 in
Height65.4 in
Wheelbase111.4 in
Track, front63.4 in
Track, rear63.4 in
Curb weight3,759 lb

Measured by Transport Canada for its Canadian Vehicle Specifications database, which covers the North American versions of each model — here one configuration: 4-door SUV. Where a range is shown, those versions differ. Width is the body without mirrors, which is why it can read narrower than a brochure figure. Before we used it we checked it against the US manufacturer press kits we hold (27 Sep 2026): wheelbase agreed within 1% on every vehicle we could compare, length on 98%, and the curb weight fell inside the manufacturer's range on 96%. Source dataset. Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada. Licence.

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Factory warranty running out?

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is in the years where transmission, electronics and drivetrain repairs land on the owner. What an extended plan does and does not cover is worth reading before a dealer quotes you one.

What to check before you buy →

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Recalls (20)

Source: NHTSA recall database
▲high

Latches/Locks/Linkages

310,667 vehicles
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CLA, 2019-2022 A-Class, 2022-2023 C-Class, 2024 CLE, 2020-2026 GLA/GLB, and 2023-2024 GLC vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific model information. The micro-switch in the driver's door lock may corrode and fail to detect an open door, preventing the electronic parking brake or "Auto-Park" feature from engaging automatically. This may result in a vehicle rollaway. Risk A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of a crash or injury. Fix Dealers will replace the driver's door lock, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 18, 2026. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning July 31, 2026.
NHTSA campaign 26V481000 reported Jul 24, 2026 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Equipment

42,742 vehicles 71% reported repaired
Problem 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." Risk Driving with worn brake pads can reduce braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix 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.
NHTSA campaign 23V732000 reported Nov 1, 2023 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Electrical System

See Recall Schedule
242,722 vehicles 91% reported repaired
Problem 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. Risk 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. Fix 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.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V365000 reported May 20, 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Back Over Prevention

2022060007
126,443 vehicles 92% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe/Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and CLS-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." Risk An inoperable rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022060007.
NHTSA campaign 22V232000 reported Apr 8, 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Suspension

2022070009
38,312 vehicles 94% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 AMG GLB35, 2019-2020 A220, and 2020 GLB250 vehicles. The integral carrier that supports the front axle may corrode, causing it to fail. Risk Front axle carrier failure may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will inspect and replace the integral carrier, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 29, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022070009.
NHTSA campaign 21V990000 reported Dec 17, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Fuel System, Gasoline

2022030003
139 vehicles 88% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 AMG G63, C300, E300, G550, AMG GT63, AMG GT53, 2019-2020 A220, GLA250, GLC300, 2016 C300, 2020 AMG A35, AMG C43, AMG C63, CLA250, E350, E450, GLB250, GLE450, GLS450, GLS580, S560, and SL550 vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine. During the manufacturing process, particles may have been trapped between the fuel rail and injectors, which can cause a fuel leak. Risk A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire. Fix Dealers will replace the fuel rail and fuel injectors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for the recall is 2022030003.
NHTSA campaign 21V961000 reported Dec 13, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

2021080019
66 vehicles 97% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLB250 vehicles. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit software may not activate the front seat belts and front passenger air bag properly. Risk Air bags and seat belts that do not function properly can increase the risk of injury in a crash. Fix Dealers will update the air bag control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
NHTSA campaign 21V639000 reported Aug 13, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Electrical System

2021080005
1,690 vehicles 98% reported repaired
Problem 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. Risk Excessive voltage through the accessory power outlet to a connected device can increase the risk of a fire. Fix 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.
NHTSA campaign 21V526000 reported Jul 12, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Exterior Lighting

2021120011
1,467 vehicles 95% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2020 C300, 2019-2020 A220, AMG C43, AMG C63, 2020 GLE580, GLB250, 2020-2021 GLE450, GLE350, 2021 AMG GLE63, and AMG GLE53 vehicles. The LED headlights may have been incorrectly adjusted during a vehicle repair. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." Risk Incorrectly adjusted headlights may reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the LED headlights, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed August 13, 2021. A second notice will be sent once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 21V509000 reported Jul 2, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

2021060011
17 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLB250 vehicles. The front passenger air bag inflator and cushion may be improperly attached inside the air bag module, which could result in the air bag cushion tearing upon deployment. Risk An air bag that does not deploy properly during a crash can increase the risk of injury. Fix Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 16, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021060011.
NHTSA campaign 21V405000 reported May 28, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Electrical System

2020070009
5,680 vehicles 99% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLB250 vehicles. Water may enter through the wheel well area into the front occupant foot wells, potentially damaging certain electrical components. This may result in the instrument cluster going blank, an engine stall while driving, or the vehicle may not start. Risk Either a blank instrument cluster display or an engine stall can increase the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will seal the vehicle body in the wheel well area and inspect the front foot wells for water intrusion, repairing as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 20, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020070009.
NHTSA campaign 21V403000 reported May 28, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

2021080012
16 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLB250 vehicles. The side curtain air bags may not deploy properly during a crash. Risk Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury. Fix Dealers will replace the side curtain air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 24, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
NHTSA campaign 21V404000 reported May 28, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Electrical System

2021050012
343,191 vehicles 97% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, and AMG GT-Class 4-door Coupe vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility." Risk A backup camera that displays a blank image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. Fix The multimedia system software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 28, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6373. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021050012.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 21V354000 reported May 14, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Structure

2021050009
5,215 vehicles 98% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 GLB35 AMG, and 2020-2021 GLB250 vehicles. The side spoilers on the tailgate might not have been installed correctly, allowing them to detach. Risk Detached spoilers can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the side spoilers, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed July 2, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021050009.
NHTSA campaign 21V231000 reported Apr 1, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Structure

2021040015
2,362 vehicles 99% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 GLB250 vehicles. The wheel arch covers on the front fenders might not have been installed correctly, allow them to detach. Risk Detached wheel arch covers can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the installation of the front wheel arch covers and correct them as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed May 21, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021040015.
NHTSA campaign 21V232000 reported Apr 1, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Electrical System

2021020025
1,292,258 vehicles 95% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash. Risk Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.
NHTSA campaign 21V058000 reported Feb 5, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

2020100010
7 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLB 250 vehicles. The window air bag in the A-pillar area may not be mounted correctly, affecting its performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 226, "Ejection Mitigation." Risk In the event of a crash that deploys the window air bag, the catch strap could disconnect and increase the risk of injury. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the mounting of the window air bag and correct it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020100010.
NHTSA campaign 20V628000 reported Oct 9, 2020 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Seats

2020090020
36 vehicles 97% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLB250 vehicles. The second row seat may not be correctly aligned within the seat track on one side, possibly causing the seat to not lock properly into place. Risk If the second row seat is not locked into place, there could be an increased risk of injury to the seat occupants in a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the installation of the second row seat and correct it, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 23, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020090020.
NHTSA campaign 20V558000 reported Sep 14, 2020 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Structure

2020090006
10,644 vehicles 99% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLB250 vehicles. The rear spoiler above the tailgate may not have been welded correctly. This could result in parts of the spoiler detaching from the vehicle. Risk If the spoiler detaches while driving, it can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear spoiler and replace it, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 23, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020090006.
NHTSA campaign 20V480000 reported Aug 14, 2020 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Electrical System

2020070009
26 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020 GLB 250 vehicles. Water may enter through the wheel well area into the front occupant foot wells, potentially damaging certain electrical components. This may result in the instrument cluster going blank, or an engine stall while driving without the ability to restart the vehicle. Risk Either a blank instrument cluster display or an engine stall can increase the risk of a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will seal the vehicle body in the wheel well area and inspect the front foot wells for water intrusion, repairing as necessary, free of charge. The recall began July 31, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020070009.
NHTSA campaign 20V246000 reported May 1, 2020 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →

These are vehicle campaigns — the ones the automaker filed against this model. NHTSA also records equipment recalls, filed by a parts maker against a component (a tyre, a child seat, an aftermarket part), and those are not listed here or counted above. nhtsa.gov/recalls shows both for a VIN.

Whether any of this applies to one specific GLB-Class

A campaign covers a build range, not a model year, so two identical-looking cars from 2020 can differ. Both of these check a VIN against the manufacturer’s own list, free, in about ten seconds. Mercedes-Benz publishes its own lookup because federal rule 49 CFR 573.15 requires it to, and to keep it current to within seven days.

Hear about a recall before the letter does

The manufacturer’s letter is the last step of a recall: it has up to 60 days after filing to mail owners, at the address on the registration. We email you the day NHTSA posts a recall on the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class, with what to do next. Nothing else, ever — no newsletter, no marketing, one-click unsubscribe in every message.

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Parts & accessories for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

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Find parts for this GLB-Class →

Owner complaints

Source: NHTSA complaint database
63complaints filed

4 involved a crash · 1 a fire · 3 injuries · 0 deaths reported

28 per 10,000 built · Mercedes-Benz reported 22,839 GLB-Class built (its Early Warning production report to NHTSA)

Filed per year: 2020: 14 · 2021: 8 · 2022: 10 · 2023: 5 · 2024: 9 · 2025: 5 · 2026: 12

Most-cited components

Structure 15
Electrical System 13
Unspecified 12
Engine 10
Fuel/Propulsion System 8
Suspension 6

In owners' own words

Filed with NHTSA by the people who own these cars, one per problem area. Quoted as written, with anything identifying removed.

I have a passenger malfunction with airbags warning coming. I also just experienced getting gas. My milage counted down to zero which it never has before and my engine light came on. I went and got gas 3 times spending around $70 and my gas mileage still says 0 and my engine light is on
Air Bags May 1, 2026 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11735064
Steering and the car is available for inspection. The car's steering failed and it ran into a parked car ay 15MPH on a resiential street. The car has been reviewed by insurance representatives. No warning lights appeared before the steering malfunction
Steering Oct 22, 2026 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11772862
Vehicle: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 4MATIC Current mileage: Approximately 109,000 Date of most recent major incident:XXX I am reporting serious, recurring safety concerns involving my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 4MATIC, including engine malfunction, loss of acceleration, repeated overheating, misfire warnings, and intermittent electronic…
Fuel/Propulsion System Oct 14, 2026 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11771107
My 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB has a serious, unresolved safety issue involving the hood-latch warning and windshield wipers. While I am driving, the hood-open warning appears and the windshield wipers cut in and out or shut off unexpectedly. This problem was already occurring by March 2026.
Visibility/Wiper Sep 14, 2026 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11764044
Complete engine failure mid driving on highway. NO engine light prior to complete engine failure. Vehicle has been towed to two different Mercedes Benz auto dealerships. Both service directors concur that this should not have occurred with zero warning and low mileage of 64,856 with an impeccable service record at Mercedes Benz Came on…
Engine Aug 15, 2026 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11757113
Extended warrenty information mercedez benz has issued warrenty to that applie to condistions as listed above (exhaust valve, cyliner head ) back 08/04/2023 the car has in mercedez benz and have failed to pick on the extended warrrenty repairs and we now find out this cased more damage to the engine and needs to replace camshat and…
Power Train Jun 15, 2026 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11744345

Complaint counts are raw owner reports to NHTSA, not verified defects, and scale with how many were sold. Use them to spot patterns, not to rank.

Reported by Mercedes-Benz itself: 12 death-or-injury claims on this model year in its quarterly Early Warning reports to NHTSA (49 CFR 579.21): 14 injured, as claimed, not verified — about 53 per 100,000 built. Every GLB-Class model year, by year and system → Dated and by system, they are exhibit F of the defect dossier.

When owners reported it

Reported at 12k

miles, typically

Half the 21 owner reports with an odometer reading on file fall between 4,000 and 40,000 miles. That is when problems get reported, which is not the same as when they start — and not a failure rate, because nobody knows how many of these cars never had a problem at all.

Too few readings for a curve — the 21 on file: 9 under 10k, 3 10k–20k, 2 20k–30k, 1 30k–40k, 3 40k–50k, 2 50k–60k, 1 70k–80k.

Odometer readings as filed by owners with NHTSA. Readings under 100 or over 400,000 miles are dropped as data entry rather than history, and a component needs at least 12 readings before a median is shown for it.

Crash ratings

Source: NHTSA NCAP

NHTSA has not published 5-Star crash ratings for this model year.

Service bulletins & campaigns

Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications
Extended coverage on file 2 filings by the manufacturer with NHTSA naming this model year

The term and the vehicles it covers are the manufacturer’s, as NHTSA’s summary of each filing states them; a dealer checks one particular car by its VIN. Every Mercedes-Benz warranty extension (9) → · Every warranty extension on file, all makes →

Communicationsfiled with NHTSA 519
Most recentmanufacturer date 2026-09-26
Kindsas classified by NHTSA 493 service bulletins, 9 warranty extensions, 6 over-the-air updates

Most often about: Electrical System, Equipment, Structure, Engine, Visibility/Wiper.

  • LI46.10-P-080896 Service bulletin
    2026-09-26 · Steering
  • Complaint Slight creaking noises when steering. Cause Noises may come from one or more sleeves of the horn contact plate. Remedy Remove the horn contact plate and check the sleeves for noise; see attached video. If necessary, apply lubricant to the sleeves.
  • LI42.10-P-078779 Service bulletin
    2026-09-22 · Service Brakes
  • Complaint Repeat workshop visit for vehicle vibration while braking from 60MPH. NOTE: Although the symptom is similar to a tire or wheel vibration, it is usually readily noticeable that it is distinctly different if it happens at all times or only while braking. Cause Although the cause of the vibration is most likely due to excessive lateral runout on the rotor or hub/wheel bearing, the system as
  • LI82.60-P-080383 Service bulletin
    2026-09-15 · Electrical System
  • Complaint Radio station cover art does not refresh when switching stations. The UI continues to show the old station’s artwork instead of updating to the new one. Cause When a new station change request is triggered, a temporary glitch is causing the Head Unit application to fail to overwrite the previous request. This glitch is causing the cover art mismatch in the Radio application. Remedy Pleas
  • LI82.62-P-078631 Service bulletin
    2026-09-14 · Structure — Body
  • Complaint Clanking noise from the area of the speakers in the doors. Cause Under analysis. Remedy To narrow down the cause, first of all remove the door trim. • If the noise continues to occur even with the door trim removed, then continue the diagnosis working towards the speaker and if necessary, create a TIPS case with an informative video as an attachment. Note: Please refer to this document i
  • LI 27.10-P-080851 Service bulletin
    2026-08-29 · Power Train
  • Complaint Intermittent shift feel or thud/clunk noise perceived, such as a brief jerk or transmission reaction during certain driving situations. May be most noticeable when transitioning from a coasting condition to accelerator pedal application. May occur in all drive modes. Cause Dual‑clutch transmissions (DCT) inherently exhibit more dynamic shifting behavior compared to other types of transmi
  • LI27.19-P-080869 Service bulletin
    2026-08-29 · Electrical System
  • Complaint Temporary no start condition with check engine light and multiple warning messages. When performing a quick test, the following fault code is stored in Y3/14 ‑ Transmission control for 8‑speed dual‑clutch transmission (DKG): P24F100 The wake‑up line of the control unit has a short circuit to positive. Cause Possible signal timing between EZS control unit and Transmission Control Unit (DK
  • LI72.20-P-075746 Service bulletin
    2026-08-24 · Structure — Body
  • Complaint Tailgate opens unintentionally. Cause Accidental or unnoticed activation of the button to open the tailgate on the vehicle key. EXAMPLE: when stored in trouser pocket, handbag etc. Remedy As of the 6th generation, the vehicle key can be recoded so that the tailgate no longer opens as a result of a long press on the button, but by double‑clicking on the button instead. This reduces the li
  • 11036999 Warranty extension
    2026-08-15 · Fuel/Propulsion System
  • Dear Mercedes-Benz Owner: In our continuing efforts to ensure the proper performance of Mercedes-Benz products and to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, Mercedes-Benz USA is extending the warranty coverage for the Diagnostic Module for Tank Leakage Detection ("DMTL") on your vehicle from the original New Vehicle Limited Warranty of 4 years / 50,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 miles (whicheve

A service bulletin is the manufacturer telling its dealers how to diagnose or repair a known condition. It is not a recall, not a finding that the vehicle is defective, and the work is not automatically free — though a bulletin is often what a dealer works from when you describe a symptom, so quoting the document number can save a diagnosis. The count is every communication filed; the list shows the most recent, one entry per campaign, because a single campaign is usually filed as several documents on the same day. The summaries are NHTSA's; the full documents come from the manufacturer.

At the New York inspection station

Source: New York State DMV

In New York’s inspection lanes over the 12 months to Oct 10, 2026, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class failed the emissions check on 2.1% of first inspections — close to the 2.2% for every 2020 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 1.1% (every 2020 vehicle: 1.6%).

New York inspections 2.1%

failed emissions

981 initial inspections of 954 vehicles.

MeasureThe 2020 GLB-ClassEvery 2020 vehicleBehind it
Failed the emissions check2.1%2.2%977
Failed the safety inspection1.1%1.6%981
Air-bag warning lamp stayed lit0.41%0.19%981
Miles driven a year8,3479,980odometer at inspection
Average odometer52,41262,630odometer at inspection

New York’s emissions test on these model years is an on-board diagnostics check: it fails a car whose check-engine light is on or whose self-tests have not finished. First inspections only, so a car that failed and came back is counted once; private and special plates, not taxis, livery or commercial plates. A rate appears only where at least 200 inspections stand behind it. “Every 2020 vehicle” is every 2020 model-year car, SUV and pickup inspected in the same window, all makes. This is the state’s record of test results, not a reliability score by itself. Source: New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Inspections (data.ny.gov, Open NY terms).

Common questions about the 2020 GLB-Class

Source: EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer press kits

Does the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class have any recalls?

NHTSA has posted 20 recall campaigns for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class. The most serious on file is 26V481000, covering Latches/Locks/Linkages. 1 of them was filed with no repair available at the time — NHTSA's file records what the manufacturer had in hand on the filing date, not what exists today. 1 campaign is phased, so the repair reached some model years before others. Check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls; a recall applies to specific build ranges, not every car.

How safe is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?

NHTSA has not published a crash-test rating for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class yet. On the recall record WhichTrim grades it F (50/100), which measures open and severe recalls rather than crash protection.

What is the fuel economy of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?

Across the 2 EPA-rated configurations of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class, the best EPA combined figure is 26 mpg. Figures are the EPA's own, per configuration, and every one is listed above.

What are the dimensions of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?

Transport Canada measured it at 182.3 in long, 72.0 in wide (body, without mirrors), 65.4 in tall, on a 111.4 in wheelbase. Curb weight: 3,759 lb. Those are its measurements of the North American versions; every figure is in the table above.

What do owners complain about on the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?

Owners have filed 63 complaints with NHTSA about the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class, most often about structure, electrical system, unspecified. Of those, 4 involved a crash, 1 a fire, 3 reported injuries. Complaints are unverified owner reports, so treat the pattern as a signal and the individual report as an anecdote.

How clean is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?

The EPA smog rating for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is 5 out of 10. That score covers tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, and it only compares vehicles within the same model year. It is certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S. Its configurations were certified to different standards — California LEV-III ULEV70, Federal Tier 3 Bin 70 — which the table above lists per configuration.

Are there service bulletins for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?

The manufacturer has filed 519 service bulletins and related communications with NHTSA for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class, most often covering electrical system, equipment, structure. The most recent is dated 2026-09-26. A bulletin is not a recall: it is the repair procedure a manufacturer sends its dealers for a condition it knows about, and the work is not automatically paid for. It is still worth knowing — if the symptom matches, quoting the bulletin number at the service desk can save a diagnosis. The document numbers and summaries are listed above.

How does the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class do at state inspection?

In New York’s inspection lanes over the 12 months to Oct 10, 2026, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class failed the emissions check on 2.1% of first inspections — close to the 2.2% for every 2020 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 1.1% (every 2020 vehicle: 1.6%). The figures are New York State DMV’s own inspection records, first inspections only, and the table above sets each one against every vehicle of the same model year.

What we hold, and what an empty row means

Paid vehicle-history reports will not tell you the difference between “nothing happened to this car” and “we never received that record” — both of the big two say as much in their own help pages. Most of what is on this page comes from complete federal registers, so we can tell you which is which, row by row.

DataHeldSourceWhat it covers — or what empty means
Fuel economy & configurations2 configurationsEPA certification recordsEvery configuration the EPA certified for sale, with its own test figures.
Emission certificates2 configurationsEPA emission certificatesSmog rating, standard and the sales area that decides where the car can be sold new.
Recalls20NHTSA recall campaignsA complete federal register: every campaign covering this model year, with severity and advisory flags.
Owner complaints63NHTSA complaint databaseAlso complete, but unverified: these are reports owners filed, not findings. Counts scale with how many were sold.
Crash ratingsnoneNHTSA NCAPNHTSA has not tested this model year. Cars are selected for testing, so untested is not unsafe.
Service bulletins519NHTSA manufacturer communicationsEverything the manufacturer told its dealers about a defect or malfunction, short of a recall.
InvestigationsnoneNHTSA Office of Defects InvestigationNo defect investigation has been opened.
Driver-assist crash reportsnoneNHTSA Standing General Order 2021-01No report has been filed. Only entities named in the order report, and only crashes they hear of — so this is also what an unequipped car, or a manufacturer without telematics, looks like.
Specifications filed with NHTSA13 fieldsNHTSA vPIC, decoded from VIN patternsWhat the manufacturer filed under the federal VIN rule — a configuration, not the full trim ladder.
Measured dimensions7 fieldsTransport Canada, Canadian Vehicle SpecificationsLength, width, height, wheelbase, track and curb weight, measured on the North American versions.
Trims, pricing & equipmentnoneManufacturer press kitWe have not transcribed a press kit for this model year yet. This is our gap, not the manufacturer's — the one row here where an empty cell means we are behind.

Rebuilt nightly; this page was generated 2026-10-26. Every figure above is traceable to the source named beside it, and the JSON for this page carries the same values with their identifiers.

Sources & method

Safety Signal starts every model-year at 100 and subtracts points per open NHTSA recall campaign by severity: critical 15 (fire risk, park-outside or do-not-drive advisories), high 8 (brakes, steering, airbags, loss of drive power, structure, battery), moderate 6, minor 3 (software, labels, lighting fixed by an update). The most serious recall counts in full and each further one counts 85% of the one before, because a vehicle sold in millions is recalled more often than a rare one without being more dangerous — and because a flat subtraction bottomed the scale out, scoring a vehicle with 22 recalls within a point of one with six. A ≥ 90, B ≥ 80, C ≥ 70, D ≥ 60, otherwise F. Read it as what it counts: recall campaigns on the federal record, weighted by severity. The damping reduces the sales bias by roughly 40% but does not remove it: like our complaint counts, this is not normalized by how many were sold, so a best-seller still scores somewhat worse than an obscure model with the same real risk. NHTSA crash ratings, do-not-drive and park-outside advisories, and the crash, fire, injury and death counts in owner complaints are reported separately on every page and never blended into the letter — a vehicle can hold five stars and a poor letter at once, and where that happens we say so rather than leave you to notice. Because the scale subtracts from a clean sheet, a model year too new to have been recalled, complained about or bulletined scores full marks on an empty record; we label those grades provisional rather than present them as earned.

EPA figures come from fueleconomy.gov vehicle records. Recalls, complaints, investigations and crash ratings come from NHTSA's public flat files, refreshed nightly.

JSON for this page · API