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2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 0safety recalls
- 63owner complaints
- 4crash reports
- 1fire report
- 11%fail the UK MOT
The most complained-about Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class year on file: 63 complaints, against an average of 7 for the other 6 model years.
Every Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?
The components named most often in the 63 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 63 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?5 owners · 7.9%
- Why is the airbag light on in my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?5 owners · 7.9%
- Has the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class had engine failures?3 owners · 4.8%
- Why does the power steering fail or feel heavy on my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?3 owners · 4.8%
- Can the sunroof on the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class shatter or fail?3 owners · 4.8%
Has the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class been recalled?
NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class as of October 25, 2026. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN before you rely on this.
Is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSASRPC2404 – Backup function of steering software
Risk: On affected vehicles the backup function of the steering software might not meet specifications. As a result the steering power support might be impaired and a loss of steerability cannot be ruled out.
Fix: Update the software of the electric steering on the affected vehicles.
UK DVSAOn affected vehicles the corrosion protection of the integral carrier of the front axle might not be sustained over the lifetime of the…On affected vehicles the corrosion protection of the integral carrier of the front axle might not be sustained over the lifetime of the vehicle.
Risk: On affected vehicles the corrosion protection of the integral carrier of the front axle might not be sustained over the lifetime of the vehicle.
Fix: Replace the front axle carrier.
UK DVSAMechanical damage to the ESP unit
Risk: The Electronic stability program (ESP) unit might be mechanically damaged.
Fix: Replace the ESP unit on the affected vehicles.
UK DVSAThe crankshaft might not meet specifications
Risk: On certain vehicles with a 4-cylinder Diesel engine the crankshaft might not meet specifications.
Fix: Replace the engine on the affected vehicles.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe front fender wheel arch covers might not have been mounted according to specifications
Risk: The wheel arch covers on the front fenders might not have been mounted according to specifications.
Fix: Check the mounting of the front wheel arch covers on the affected vehicles and correct their installation if necessary.
UK DVSAThe side spoilers at the tailgate may not have been mounted to specifications
Risk: The side spoilers at the tailgate might not have been mounted according to specifications.
Fix: Check the mounting of the side spoilers and replace them if necessary.
UK DVSAThe communication module may be deactivated
Risk: The communication module may be deactivated
Fix: Carry out a check of the configuration of the communication module on affected vehicles and if necessary activate the communication module.
UK DVSAThe oil level in the dual clutch transmission might not meet specifications
Risk: The oil level in the dual clutch transmission might not meet specifications.
Fix: Check the dual clutch transmission on the affected vehicles and correct the oil level or replace the dual clutch transmission if necessary.
UK DVSAThe oil level in the dual clutch transmission might not meet specifications
Risk: The oil level in the dual clutch transmission might not meet specifications.
Fix: Replace the dual clutch transmission.
UK DVSAThe oil level in the dual clutch transmission might noot meet specifications
Risk: The oil level in the dual clutch transmission might not meet specifications.
Fix: Check the dual clutch transmission on the affected vehicles and correct the oil level.
UK DVSAThe adjustable second seat row may not have been installed to specifications
Risk: The second seat row might not be correctly engaged in the seat rail on one side.
Fix: Check the installation of the second seat row on the affected vehicles and correct it if necessary
UK DVSAThe oil supply line of the turbocharger may leak
Risk: The oil supply line of the turbocharger might leak
Fix: Check the oil supply line of the turbocharger on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary
UK DVSAThe rear tailgate spoiler may not be to specification
Risk: The rear spoiler located above the tailgate might have been manufactured outside specifications.
Fix: Check the rear spoiler on the affected vehicles and perform any necessary corrections
UK DVSAThe vehicle body may not be sealed in the area of the front wheel wells
Risk: The vehicle body might not be sealed according to specification in the area of the front wheel wells.
Fix: Seal the vehicle body in the subject area and check the front foot wells for water intrusion. In case a water intrusion the necessary repair works resulting from this issue would be carried out.
UK DVSAThe software of the radar control unit may not meet specification
Risk: ; The software of the radar control unit might not meet the specification
Fix: Update the software of the radar sensor control unit on the affected vehicles.
EU Safety GateThe steering software may not correctly activate the fallback level in the event of a hardware failure.This could affect the power steering assistance and lead to the loss of steering capacity, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Update of the electric steering software; Date of entry into force: Unknown; Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe Electronic Stability Program (ESP) unit might be damaged, moisture can reach the internal components leading to a short circuit,…The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) unit might be damaged, moisture can reach the internal components leading to a short circuit, increasing the risk of fire and/or cause the ESP functions (e.g. vehicle stability control, anti-lock braking systems) to be disabled, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateImproper torque of the screws on the brake caliper housing can cause the screw connections to become loose.As a result, the braking performance would be reduced and components of the brake caliper may be lost, increasing the risk of accidents.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateDue to inadequate corrosion protection, the integral subframe of the front axle may corrode, which could impair its operational strength…Due to inadequate corrosion protection, the integral subframe of the front axle may corrode, which could impair its operational strength and the connection of other components. This could have an impact on the steering capability of the vehicle, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe software in the airbag control unit may not correctly identify the trigger points of the safety belt load limiters (driver and…The software in the airbag control unit may not correctly identify the trigger points of the safety belt load limiters (driver and passenger seats).This could increase the risk of injury to the occupants of the vehicle in the event of a frontal collision that triggers the restraint system.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe front wheel-arch covers may not have been attached correctly.As a result, a wheel-arch cover could detach completely while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe side spoilers on the boot lid may not be properly affixed.As a result, a spoiler could detach completely while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe adjustable second seat row might not be correctly latched onto the seat rail on one side.As a result, the fastening of the second seat row might not be ensured in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe quantity of oil in the dual-clutch gearbox may be too high.This can result in impaired torque transmission and potentially increased CO2 emissions.In addition, in extreme driving situations, gearbox oil might leak onto the road, posing a risk to the following traffic.Moreover, the leaking gearbox oil might come into contact with hot components, increasing the risk of fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe quantity of oil in the dual-clutch gearbox may be too low or too high.This can result in impaired torque transmission, gearbox failure and potentially increased CO2 emissions.In addition, in extreme driving situations, gearbox oil might leak onto the road, posing a risk to the following traffic.Moreover, the leaking gearbox oil might come into contact with hot components, increasing the risk of fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe fuel tank ventilation pipe may have a split, which may allow diesel fuel to escape during refueling or driving.Consequently, the leaked fuel may get into contact with the exhaust system, increasing risk of fire, or leak onto the road, posing a risk to the following traffic.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe outer shell of the rear spoiler might not have been welded or may have been only partially welded to the base support.As a result, parts of the rear spoiler may become detached while the vehicle is in motion, posing a risk to the following traffic.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe oil-supply pipe on the turbocharger may leak.As a result, engine oil could leak onto the under-body paneling and from there onto the road, posing a risk to the following traffic.Moreover, leaking engine oil might come into contact with hot components in the engine compartment, increasing the risk of fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe bodywork around the front wheelhouses has not been sealed in accordance with the specifications, allowing water to penetrate into the…The bodywork around the front wheelhouses has not been sealed in accordance with the specifications, allowing water to penetrate into the front foot spaces and damage the control units and other electrical components installed in those areas.As a result the instrument cluster could stop showing information, the braking assistance (e.g. ABS, ESP) could be restricted, or the engine could stall while driving or no longer be able start, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
How often does the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class fail its MOT?
Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2020, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What do 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class owners report?
12 of the 63 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
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.
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 display failure. I purchased this vehicle Certified Pre-Owned in XXX with approximately 44,000 miles. Since purchasing it, I have experienced multiple significant mechanical failures despite repeated Mercedes-Benz dealership repairs. SUMMER 2024 – REPEATED…
SUBJECT: URGENT: Safety Recall Campaign 26V481 / XXX– Unreasonable Remedy Delay and Economic Hardship (VIN: [XXX]). I am formally logging a safety complaint regarding the unreasonable delay by Mercedes-Benz in providing a remedy for NHTSA Recall 26V481 (Mercedes Campaign XXX), affecting my vehicle (VIN: [XXX]). The manufacturer reported this critical defect to the NHTSA on XXX. Despite months having passed, and with owner notifications scheduled for XXX, the remedy remains unavailable. My local authorized dealerships (Mercedes-Benz of West Palm Beach and Delray) have canceled my service…
I am submitting this complaint because I believe the repair performed under NHTSA Recall 21V990 / Mercedes-Benz Campaign 2022070009 in May 2024 failed to adequately correct the safety defect identified in the recall.When driving my axle snapped causing my tire to pop out and me to loose control of the car causing a crash into the curb. I have since been without a vehicle with Mercedes Benz of Augusta denying my vehicle after having it towed. They refused to even look at it seeing the axle issue. The recall specifically states: “Mercedes-Benz AG has determined that on certain Model Year…
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. The vehicle currently has approximately 85,000 miles. During the recent heavy rain in New Jersey, these interruptions have compromised my visibility while the vehicle was moving. When the wipers stop clearing rain, my ability to see traffic, pedestrians, lane markings, and roadway hazards is impaired. This can…
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 suddenly Julie 2026 and no engine warning lights
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 , CONTROL VALVE, ROLLER ROCKER ARM, AND ENGINE CAMSHAFT FOLLOWER . IT'S ALL BECAUSE DEALERSHIP FAILED AND NOTFIY US OF NEEDED REPAIRS . THEY ARE WILL COVER THE REPAIS ON EXHAUST VALVE SYSTEM BUT NOT CAMSHAT AND , CONTROL VALVE, ROLLER ROCKER ARM, AND ENGINE CAMSHAFT…
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.
my car has only 24533 miles and Air bag malfunction message is showing up
Diagnostics performed and found electrical/component fault and possible wire damage to fuel pump. NECC to drain tank and inspect replace fule pump if necc. Oringally took one week prior and diagnostics led to the possiblility that the cylinder head was malfunctioning, which was a manufacturing defect and covered under an extended warranty, but now advised otherwise. Quote $2200.00. Mileage on vehicle 23,660.
I am submitting this formal complaint regarding a serious safety incident involving my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB, which directly reflects the defect outlined in Recall 20V-480 (Rear Spoiler Detachment). Although my VIN is not officially included in the affected range, the exact failure described in the recall occurred on my vehicle. On or about June 16, 2025, at approximately 3:00 p.m., I was driving and I noticed an object in my rearview mirror that had become airborne and was causing vehicles behind me to swerve to avoid it. Moments later, two separate vehicles pulled up alongside me, and the…
The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250. The contact stated that there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer on three occasions however, the dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no recalls on the VIN. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.
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2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class: questions owners ask
Is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 63 complaints with NHTSA about the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class; the most common categories were structure (15, 23.8%), electrical system (13, 20.6%), engine (10, 15.9%). There are no safety recalls listed for this model year. 4 complaints mention a crash, 1 mentions a fire, 3 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?
Across 63 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are structure (23.8% of complaints), electrical system (20.6% of complaints), engine (15.9% of complaints), air bags (11.1% of complaints), suspension (11.1% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class have any recalls?
As of October 2026, NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?
5 of the 63 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class (7.9%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "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." (NHTSA complaint 11735064, May 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is the airbag light on in my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?
5 of the 63 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class (7.9%) describe airbag warning lights or airbag faults. One owner wrote: "Got warning light on in december 7th 2020 saying "front right airbag malfunction". took car for service and apparent solved issue. today december 17th 2020 the problem is back again.*dt the consumer submitted an invoice for repairs. *tr" (NHTSA complaint 11383890, December 2020). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Has the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class had engine failures?
3 of the 63 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class (4.8%) describe complete engine failure or a replaced engine. One owner wrote: "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." (NHTSA complaint 11757113, August 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does the power steering fail or feel heavy on my 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?
3 of the 63 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class (4.8%) describe power steering failing, locking up or turning heavy. One owner wrote: "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." (NHTSA complaint 11772862, October 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Can the sunroof on the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class shatter or fail?
3 of the 63 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class (4.8%) describe the sunroof or panoramic roof shattering, exploding or failing. One owner wrote: "I was driving on the way to my office and the sunroof was suddenly broken without hitting by any objects. Vehicle has been repaired.*JB" (NHTSA complaint 11443522, December 2021). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own GLB-Class
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2020 only.