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2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB has good reliability. There are 10 recalls and 30 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (8), Electrical System (6), Engine (4).

GLB reliability snapshot

65/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.0/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$908
Avg annual repair cost
#27/32
Ranking in category · better than 16% of peers

Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.

Used-car research

Research the Mercedes-Benz GLB before checking the VIN

Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.

Most-reported 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB issues

Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.

  • Unknown Or Other8
  • Electrical System6
  • Engine4
  • Power Train3
  • Steering2
  • Suspension2

Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB

Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.

  • Inspect engine for signs of shaking or rough idling
  • Check for metal particles in engine oil
  • Test sunroof for any unusual sounds or signs of stress
  • Verify transmission shifts smoothly without clunking noises
  • Ensure electrical system is fully functional, especially dashboard and warning lights
  • Confirm suspension components are intact and free of unusual noises
  • Check for any unresolved recall repairs

What owners reported

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB owner complaints in detail

Owner complaints8

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners report two primary issues with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB: spontaneous sunroof shattering and engine performance problems. Multiple complaints describe the panoramic sunroof unexpectedly exploding, resulting in glass falling into the vehicle, with incidents occurring while driving at highway speeds. Additionally, several owners mention engine issues, including jerking, rough idling, and loss of power, with some reports indicating metal particles in the oil and the need for engine replacement. These problems often manifest around 29,000 miles, posing potential safety risks such as loss of control and possible injury from shattered glass. Buyers should be aware of these reported issues when considering this model.

Owner complaints5

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system. Common symptoms include the horn randomly honking while driving, potentially causing confusion and safety risks. Some owners experience complete electrical system failures while driving, leading to a non-functional dashboard and uncertainty about the vehicle's safety. Reports also mention a transmission malfunction warning light triggering a limp mode at highway speeds, with ongoing software development to address this issue. Additionally, there are complaints about delays in recall repairs related to electrical system components, although some owners have not experienced failures. These issues often occur at varying mileages, and the safety implications include potential loss of vehicle control and increased risk during highway driving.

Owner complaints4

ENGINE

Owners report several engine-related issues with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, including catastrophic engine failure and cylinder head problems. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as engine shaking, loss of power, excessive noise, and engine lights turning on. These issues appear to occur at mileage as low as 35,000 miles, with some owners experiencing complete engine replacements. Safety implications are noted, as one owner describes losing power on the interstate, leading to a challenging and potentially dangerous situation to maneuver the vehicle to safety. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and the associated repair costs, as well as the reported difficulties in obtaining satisfactory resolutions from dealerships and the manufacturer.

Owner complaints3

POWER TRAIN

Owners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB report issues related to the power train, with two primary concerns emerging. Multiple complaints describe a loud clunking noise from the transmission during downshifts, particularly from D4 to D1, which occurs when the vehicle comes to a stop. This issue is reported soon after purchase, even in certified used vehicles. Additionally, a complaint highlights a severe engine problem involving cylinder head failure and subsequent engine seizure, leading to undriveable conditions and potential safety risks due to sudden power loss. These issues appear in vehicles with varied mileage, including one at 81,000 miles, and may suggest underlying mechanical defects.

Owner complaints2

STEERING

Owners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB report issues related to the steering and front axle components, with common symptoms including a persistent pull to the left and loud clunking or cracking noises from the front axle, especially at low speeds. Complaints frequently mention that these problems arise after repairs or appear suddenly, with one owner noting persistent issues post-suspension and mount repairs. The steering pull requires constant correction to prevent unintended lane departure, posing potential safety risks. These issues seem to affect the vehicle regardless of mileage, and multiple owners suggest that the problems are widespread among this model and year, indicating a need for thorough inspection when considering a used purchase.

Owner complaints2

SUSPENSION

Owners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB report issues related to the suspension, specifically involving the front right ball joint and control arm. One complaint describes the front right ball joint separating from the lower control arm, leading to a disconnected drive shaft and rendering the vehicle non-drivable at approximately 15 mph. Another owner reports a loud "clunk" noise from the undercarriage and sensations of tire slipping, particularly during slow-speed U-turns, which the dealership attributed to the vehicle being equipped with summer tires unsuitable for winter conditions. These issues arise at low mileage, around 3,000 miles, and present potential safety concerns, including the risk of collision due to sudden mechanical failure or loss of traction.

2021 GLB recalls (10)

Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 GLB. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

  1. STRUCTURENHTSA 21V231000Apr 1, 2021

    Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 GLB35 AMG, and 2020-2021 GLB250 vehicles. The side spoilers on the tailgate might not have been installed correctly, allowing them to detach.

    Consequence: Detached spoilers can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

    Remedy

    MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the side spoilers, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed July 2, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021050009.

  2. STRUCTURENHTSA 21V232000Apr 1, 2021

    Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 GLB250 vehicles. The wheel arch covers on the front fenders might not have been installed correctly, allow them to detach.

    Consequence: Detached wheel arch covers can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

    Remedy

    MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the installation of the front wheel arch covers and correct them as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed May 21, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021040015.

  3. ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)NHTSA 22V679000Sep 12, 2022

    Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 GLB250 vehicles. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) unit may be damaged, which can result in disabled anti-lock brakes (ABS), disabled electronic stability control (ESC), and an electrical short circuit.

    Consequence: Disabled anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control can increase the risk of a crash or injury. An electrical short circuit increases the risk of a fire.

    Remedy

    Dealers will replace the ESP unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022090009.

  4. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, COMMUNICATIONNHTSA 22V365000May 20, 2022

    Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.

    Consequence: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.

    Remedy

    The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.

  5. SUSPENSION, EXTERIOR LIGHTINGNHTSA 22V314000May 9, 2022

    Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 GLB 250 vehicles. The level sensor linkage on the rear axle might not have been installed properly, which could affect the headlight leveling function. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022050011.

    Consequence: Improperly leveled headlights may project a glare, which can impact other drivers and increase the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Dealers will inspect and repair the level sensor linkage, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 10, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

  6. BACK OVER PREVENTIONNHTSA 22V232000Apr 8, 2022

    Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe/Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and CLS-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

    Consequence: An inoperable rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022060007.

  7. AIR BAGSNHTSA 22V078000Feb 11, 2022

    Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 GLB 250 vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with an incorrect front driver's air bag module.

    Consequence: An incorrect air bag module may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash. In addition, the air bag module could detach from the steering wheel during deployment. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

    Remedy

    Dealers will inspect and replace the front driver's air bag, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 25, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

  8. AIR BAGSNHTSA 21V860000Nov 5, 2021

    Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 GLB 250 and AMG GLB 35 vehicles. The driver-side window air bag may not have been mounted correctly to the lower area of the A-pillar. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 226, "Ejection Mitigation."

    Consequence: The driver-side window air bag may not function properly during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    Remedy

    Dealers will inspect the mounting of the driver-side window air bag and repair it as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

  9. BACK OVER PREVENTION, ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 21V354000May 14, 2021

    Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, and AMG GT-Class 4-door Coupe vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

    Consequence: A backup camera that displays a blank image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

    Remedy

    The multimedia system software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 28, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6373. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021050012.

  10. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, COMMUNICATIONNHTSA 21V058000Feb 5, 2021

    Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.

    Consequence: Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.

    Remedy

    MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB on the road

26,676 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.

How the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB stacks up against rivals

The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.

Reliability verdict for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB exhibits moderate reliability, scoring below the segment average. With ten recalls, the recall count is elevated, suggesting a need for attention to potential manufacturing or design issues. Complaints are distributed across various categories, with a noticeable concentration in unspecified issues and the electrical system, hinting at some inconsistency in build quality or component reliability.

The model is in its second year of production, a phase when manufacturers typically address initial generation problems. However, the spread of issues across multiple systems indicates that some concerns remain unresolved. Engine and powertrain complaints further underscore areas where reliability falls short of expectations.

Overall, the 2021 GLB presents an elevated reliability risk, with potential buyers advised to weigh these factors carefully against their priorities.

What you get in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB report

Available title brand history
Odometer readings & rollback detection
Accident & damage records
Auction sales with photos
Open safety recalls
Theft & stolen vehicle check

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2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB — Frequently asked questions

Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB reliable?

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB exhibits moderate reliability, scoring below the segment average. With ten recalls, the recall count is elevated, suggesting a need for attention to potential manufacturing or design issues. Complaints are distributed across various categories, with a noticeable concentration in unspecified issues and the electrical system, hinting at some inconsistency in build quality or component reliability.

How many recalls does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB have?

10 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

What are the most common 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB problems?

The most-reported 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (8), Electrical System (6), Engine (4).

Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB?

Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.