2020 Mercedes-Benz Alliado

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 is a compact SUV offering a blend of luxury and practicality. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the GLB’s spacious interior for its class, user-friendly technology, and comfortable ride. Common criticisms include occasional lag in throttle response and the somewhat firm ride quality on rough roads.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption between oil changes. Symptoms can include the low oil level warning light illuminating frequently and needing to add oil more often than expected.
  • Solution: Check the PCV valve for damage or blockage and replace if necessary. Perform an oil consumption test to determine the rate of consumption. Depending on the test results, engine repair or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (PCV valve replacement) - $5,000+ (Engine repair or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leak from Thermostat Housing
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from around the thermostat housing. This can lead to a low coolant level, overheating, and a visible coolant leak.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing and gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DCT)

• Rough or Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience rough or jerky shifting, particularly at low speeds or during stop-and-go traffic. This can manifest as harsh upshifts or downshifts, a feeling of hesitation, or a general lack of smoothness in gear changes.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, a transmission fluid flush or replacement of the DCT clutch pack might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (Software Update), $300 - $500 (Fluid Flush), $2,000+ (Clutch Pack Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: A delay between shifting into drive or reverse and the transmission actually engaging. This can create a feeling of hesitation and potentially be a safety concern.
  • Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition. Perform a transmission adaptation reset using a diagnostic tool. If the problem persists, further diagnosis of the valve body and internal components may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (Fluid Check), $100 - $300 (Adaptation Reset), $800+ (Valve Body Repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• MBUX System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Perform a system reset. If the problem persists, a software update may be required, or in some rare cases, the MBUX unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (System Reset), $100 - $300 (Software Update), $1,500+ (MBUX Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of various sensors, such as parking sensors or blind spot monitoring. This can result in false alarms, failure to detect obstacles, or error messages.
  • Solution: Diagnose the faulty sensor using a diagnostic tool and replace the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Rattling or Squeaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or squeaking noises coming from the sunroof, especially when driving on uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Lubricate the sunroof seals and tracks. In some cases, the sunroof assembly may need to be adjusted or repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 (Lubrication), $300+ (Adjustment/Repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Creaking or Rattling from Dashboard or Trim Pieces
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking or rattling noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or other interior trim pieces, particularly when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the noise and apply felt tape or other sound-deadening material to the affected area. In some cases, trim pieces may need to be tightened or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 presents a mix of issues ranging from minor annoyances to potentially more significant concerns. The most concerning issues appear to be related to engine oil consumption and transmission performance, both of which could lead to costly repairs. Electrical issues with the MBUX system can also be frustrating. While some problems can be addressed with software updates or relatively inexpensive fixes, others may require more extensive repairs. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing.