2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG is a sporty compact SUV that blends performance and practicality. It comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Owners generally praise its agile handling, punchy acceleration, and relatively spacious interior for its class. Criticisms often revolve around its firm ride quality and some interior materials that don’t quite match the luxury price point.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (M260)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbo, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent need to add engine oil between services, blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant level drops rapidly, visible coolant puddles under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace leaking hoses, water pump, or radiator as necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+

Transmission

8-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DCT)

• Rough or Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting, especially at lower speeds, clunking noises during gear changes.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission adaptation reset. In some cases, clutch replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (software update) to $3,000+ (clutch replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, uneven tire wear, reduced ride comfort.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings, ball joints, or struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ per axle

Electrical

• Malfunctioning MBUX System
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, slow response times, connectivity issues, screen glitches.
  • Solution: Software update, system reset. In some cases, hardware replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) to $1,000+ (hardware replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms, system malfunctions, warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per sensor

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking noises when opening or closing the sunroof. Sunroof gets stuck or does not fully close.
  • Solution: Lubricate sunroof tracks, repair sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+

Interior

• Rattling Noises from Dashboard or Trim Pieces
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling sounds emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or other interior trim, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Tightening loose fasteners, adding foam padding to reduce vibration.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the source of the rattle)

Summary

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG, while generally a well-regarded vehicle, does exhibit some common issues. Engine issues like turbocharger failure and excessive oil consumption can be quite costly. Transmission problems like rough shifting can be annoying and might require expensive repairs. Electrical glitches related to the MBUX system and sensor malfunctions are also prevalent. While some issues are minor and relatively inexpensive to fix, others can be significant financial burdens. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase, as well as ensure the vehicle is up-to-date on all maintenance.