2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB250

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 is a compact SUV offering a blend of practicality and luxury. The GLB250 comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the GLB250’s spacious interior and available third-row seating (making it somewhat unique in its class), while others find the ride quality firm and the engine noise somewhat intrusive. Common dislikes also include the complicated infotainment system and some lower-quality interior materials in certain areas. A more powerful AMG GLB 35 is also available, with a tuned version of the 2.0-liter engine.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil changes than typically expected. Symptoms include the need to add oil between scheduled services and potentially seeing the low oil level warning light.
  • Solution: The dealer should perform an oil consumption test to verify the oil loss. If deemed excessive, potential repairs could range from replacing valve stem seals to piston rings, or in more severe cases, a short block replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: A few owners have reported premature turbocharger failure. Symptoms include a loss of power, whistling or whining noises from the engine bay, and potentially the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacing the turbocharger assembly is the common fix. Ensure the replacement part is an OEM or an equivalent quality aftermarket unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Rough or Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or jerky shifting, particularly at lower speeds or during gear changes. This can manifest as hesitation, clunking noises, or a general lack of smoothness.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) is sometimes the fix. If that doesn’t work, the transmission fluid may need to be changed. In severe cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping can occur where the RPMs increase, but the vehicle doesn’t accelerate, or the vehicle feels like it shifts into neutral on its own.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve body may be needed. In more severe cases, complete transmission replacement may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• MBUX Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have complained about the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive. This can include issues with the touchscreen, voice control, and navigation.
  • Solution: A software update from the dealership is the most common fix. In some cases, a complete replacement of the MBUX unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $2,000+ (Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues reported range from malfunctioning parking sensors to problems with the driver-assistance systems (e.g., adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist). The instrument cluster usually displays warning messages.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is key. Faulty sensors need to be replaced. Recalibration of the affected system may also be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners reported issues with the sunroof such as not closing properly or excessive noise when opening/closing
  • Solution: Sunroof may need to be realigned or the motor may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Several owners have reported experiencing various rattling and squeaking noises emanating from the interior, particularly from the dashboard, door panels, or rear cargo area.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the noise and addressing it accordingly, which may involve tightening loose panels, adding insulation, or replacing worn components. Dealership service departments are generally best equipped to handle these issues, as pinpointing the exact cause can be difficult.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the severity and source of the noise)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 has some reported issues spanning across its engine, transmission, electrical system, and interior. The severity of these issues varies, from minor inconveniences like MBUX system glitches to more serious concerns like potential turbocharger failure or transmission problems. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for sensor replacements or software updates to several thousand dollars for engine or transmission repairs. While some issues are relatively rare, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchasing.