Complaints about the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 peaked in 2020, with 13 filed
Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.
SUV, gasoline, AWD/All-Wheel Drive, built in Mexico. Owner complaints on file from Mar 10, 2020 to Sep 30, 2026.
Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.
Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.
Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.
| Campaign | Filed | Subject | Component | Vehicles | Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26V-481 | Jul 24, 2026 | 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… | Latches and locks | 310,667 | Part replacement |
| 23V-732 | Nov 1, 2023 | Vehicles may not be equipped with an inspection gauge to check the wear of the rear brake pads | Equipment | 42,742 | Repair or modification |
| 22V-365 | May 20, 2022 | Error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system | Communication | 242,722 | Software update |
| 22V-232 | Apr 8, 2022 | Rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error | Back-over prevention | 126,443 | Software update |
| 21V-990 | Dec 17, 2021 | Integral carrier that supports the front axle may corrode, causing it to fail | Steering | 38,312 | Part replacement |
| 21V-961 | Dec 13, 2021 | During the manufacturing process, particles may have been trapped between the fuel rail and injectors, which can cause a fuel leak | Fuel system | 139 | Part replacement |
| 21V-639 | Aug 13, 2021 | 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 | Airbags | 66 | Software update |
| 21V-526 | Jul 12, 2021 | Accessory power outlet for the second-row seating may have excessive voltage due to an incorrect voltage converter socket | Electrical system | 1,690 | Part replacement |
| 21V-509 | Jul 2, 2021 | LED headlights may have been incorrectly adjusted during a vehicle repair | Lighting | 1,467 | Part replacement |
| 21V-405 | May 28, 2021 | Front passenger air bag inflator and cushion may be improperly attached inside the air bag module, which could result in the air bag cushion… | Airbags | 17 | Part replacement |
| 21V-404 | May 28, 2021 | Side curtain air bags may not deploy properly during a crash | Airbags | 16 | Part replacement |
| 21V-403 | May 28, 2021 | Water may enter through the wheel well area into the front occupant foot wells, potentially damaging certain electrical components | Electrical system | 5,680 | Repair or modification |
| 21V-354 | May 14, 2021 | MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup | Back-over prevention | 343,191 | Software update |
| 21V-232 | Apr 1, 2021 | Wheel arch covers on the front fenders might not have been installed correctly, allow them to detach | Structure | 2,362 | Repair or modification |
| 21V-231 | Apr 1, 2021 | Side spoilers on the tailgate might not have been installed correctly, allowing them to detach | Structure | 5,215 | Part replacement |
| 21V-058 | Feb 5, 2021 | Software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the… | Communication | 1,292,258 | Software update |
| 20V-628 | Oct 9, 2020 | Window air bag in the A-pillar area may not be mounted correctly, affecting its performance | Airbags | 7 | Not stated |
| 20V-558 | Sep 14, 2020 | 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 | Seats | 36 | Repair or modification |
| 20V-480 | Aug 14, 2020 | Rear spoiler above the tailgate may not have been welded correctly | Structure | 10,644 | Part replacement |
| 20V-246 | May 1, 2020 | Water may enter through the wheel well area into the front occupant foot wells, potentially damaging certain electrical components | Electrical system | 26 | Repair or modification |
The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.
54 complaints on file, page 1 of 3.
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 appointments, stating they have zero parts allocation from corporate and cannot perform repairs. This vehicle is a commercial asset utilized for peer-to-peer car sharing on the Turo platform. Because this recall involves a severe rollaway risk due to a defective door lock microswitch, Turo has automatically unlisted and deactivated my vehicle to comply with safety regulations. Mercedes-Benz’s failure to distribute parts is causing severe, compounding financial damages due to lost rental revenue, leaving me stranded with an unsafe vehicle that is legally and commercially inoperable. I request that the NHTSA intervene to hold the manufacturer accountable and expedite parts allocation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint 11767997The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign: 26V481000 (Latches/Lock/Linkages); however, the part for the recall repair was not available. The contact stated that while attempting to Park the vehicle, the parking brake independently engaged. The ABS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer and the failure was confirmed. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
NHTSA complaint 11765005I 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 2019–2021 A-Class and GLB-Class vehicles, the corrosion protection of the integral carrier of the front axle might not be sustained over the lifetime of the vehicle. Under specific environmental influences, corrosion of the integral carrier of the front axle might occur after several years. As a result, depending on the intensity and location of the corrosion, an impairment of the structural durability of the integral carrier as well as the connection to other components cannot be ruled out. In this case, vehicle steering might be affected which could potentially increase the risk of a crash.” My 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 received the recall repair in May 2024. Despite the recall repair being completed, the vehicle subsequently experienced a serious front-end/steering-related mechanical failure involving components connected to the front axle, resulting in an accident and loss of steering control.I am particularly concerned because the failure occurred in the same general front-axle area addressed by Recall 21V990, and the recall itself specifically identifies the possibility that deterioration of the integral carrier and its connections can affect steering and increase the risk of a crash.I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether the May 2024 recall remedy was properly performed and whether the recall remedy adequately addresses the underlying safety defect in this vehicle.
NHTSA complaint 11764407Diagnostics 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.
NHTSA complaint 11726066I 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 drivers began waving their arms to get my attention. I exited the roadway and pulled into the Walmart parking lot, where a couple in a pickup truck approached me and informed me that the rear spoiler of my vehicle had flown off. I got out to inspect the vehicle, and indeed, the spoiler was completely gone. I returned to the area where I first saw the airborne object, attempting to locate the detached part, but was unsuccessful in recovering it. I contacted Mercedes-Benz USA and my local dealership on June 17, 2025, and was told that because my vehicle’s VIN is not listed under the recall, I would be responsible for the full cost of inspection and repair. Frankly, that position is unacceptable for the following reasons: - Recall 20V-480 describes a defect involving improperly welded rear spoilers on 2020 GLB250 models, which can detach while driving. That is exactly what happened to my vehicle under normal conditions. - The spoiler detached while the vehicle was in motion, creating a dangerous road hazard—just as outlined in the recall. - The vehicle has never been involved in a collision or sustained rear-end damage. It has not been subjected to outside interference. - My VIN has been included in at least five previous recalls, underscoring that my vehicle was part of broader quality issues during that production period.
NHTSA complaint 11678410See attached document for complaint.
NHTSA complaint 11672392The 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.
NHTSA complaint 11661522Front and rear suspension/control arms appears to have squeaky noises when approaching a turn or going a speed bump.
NHTSA complaint 11652993CV joint axle. This car does not maintain its lane. Drives misaligned and sounds like there is a cracking noise like something is breaking under driverside steering wheel. Attention assist comes on often. This issue appeared shortly after purchasing 05/24. The vehicle had been inspected multiple times by Mercedes. Supposedly there were looks bolts underneath that were tightened. Problem persists every-time vehicle is driven.
NHTSA complaint 11633560The 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.
NHTSA complaint 11631409Car constantly cuts out and loses power as well as occasionally shuts off for no reason. Causing very hazardous driving conditions. I have noticed that this is a common issue stated in online forums with this particular car as well. It is more times than not an issue with the engine head and valves.
NHTSA complaint 11617187The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the rear spoiler detached from the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was determined that the spoiler needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 47,000.
NHTSA complaint 11615360Power Liftgate (via key fob – SmartKey). Mercedes GLB250. Was told by Mercedes employees that all cars operate the same. oSensor that automatically stops liftgate if it detects an obstruction does not retract to allow someone reaching in the trunk to safely exit the trunk. oThe liftgate stops, but it does not do so until it has hit/touched the objection or obstruction. oWhen you press the trunk button on the key fob, the liftgate only raises slightly (maybe 2 inches). oIf you press the key fob again, the liftgate just continues to go up and down within those few inches and continues to hit/touch the object/obstruction each time you press the button. Half of my body was trapped in the trunk. Suffered injury to shoulder and hand. oI was taking grocery bags out of the trunk and had the key fob in my pocket. oAn item fell out of the bag so I reached into the trunk to grab it. oAs I leaned in, the body of the car must have come into contact with the key fob and the trunk came down (closed). oI did not have time to exit the trunk and ½ of my body became trapped in the trunk. oI had just enough space to move my right hand to take the key out of my pocket. oI pressed the trunk button, but the liftgate did not fully retract. It went up slightly and came back down hitting/touching my body. oI did not have enough room to get out of the trunk. oI was in a garage where no one could hear me scream for help. oI had to push up with my left hand and use excessive force with my back and right shoulder to lift the heavy trunk. Mercedes inspected the car and said nothing is wrong. Letter provided. oSeveral Mercedes employees at the dealership were present when I demonstrated the issue. They had no explanation. oSales manager stated that he tested the trunk (cars located at the dealership) and they do retract but understood my concerns as it only retracts slightly. oNo one seems to understand that serious risk this possesses, unless they were to be trapped i
NHTSA complaint 11597573The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250. The contact stated while opening the liftgate, the rear spoiler above the liftgate became loosened while raising and scratched the roof of the vehicle. The contact stated that the rear spoiler had not detached. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the failure was caused by external factors, unrelated to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V480000 (Structure), which had previously been performed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
NHTSA complaint 11596906The engine made a knocking sound and i pulled over on the side of the road took the car to MB dealership to get the recall fixed but i was told the recall cannot be fixed until the engine is fixed. MBUSA refuses to replace the engine even though it is fully covered under warranty. Thus because i cannot get a recall done for my safety unless i get an engine replaced. This is absolutely horrible. MB knows they produced a bad engine and are forcing us to pay out of our pocket then they will fix the recall on the car.
NHTSA complaint 11594846Engine failure. Engine has no compression which is causing injection fueler to fail. The head engine has gone bad at 50,000 miles. Head engine must be replaced and is on back order per Mercerdes Benz. After research on the issue I’ve noticed the Year/Make/Model this is issue is common at the 40k-50k mile mark. This is a manufactured issue that Mercerdes needs to fix if so common within the car and also unsafe. Not okay for a new car to have engine failure this early
NHTSA complaint 11575249The 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.
NHTSA complaint 11570269Since the beginning of the vehicle purchase, we heard fine metal rattling sound on the front driver side tire. Had it checked with the dealer and they recommended no repair. Now driven about 35K miles and started very loud metal scratching sound when wheels turned to right. Inspection showed bent brake cover that was wearing tire uneven. Dealer claims that we went over a large bump that bent the brake cover but no such thing happened and this location is where we have been hearing this fine rattling since buying new. Raising a possibility that the manufacturing and securing process of parts around this area was not done fully and eventually cause inappropriate contact induced brake covering damage and tire wear.
NHTSA complaint 11564012My GLB250 does not fall under recall 2020070009 however after taking it through the car wash the entire display instrument went out and car will not turn on and off. They are telling me the car had water damage and it is on me to fix?
NHTSA complaint 11545725The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250. The contact stated while opening the trunk of the vehicle, the rear spoiler detached from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the rear spoiler needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V480000 (Structure) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000.
NHTSA complaint 11529163Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.