Used Mercedes B-Class 2019-present reliability
Category: MPV
The refined Mercedes B-Class is comfortable and has an upmarket feel, but there's no seven-seat option.
What should I look for in a used Mercedes B-Class hatchback?
The B-Class is a long-ish car, so although visibility is good all-round check the extremities of the car carefully for any dents or dings. Also, check the alloy wheels for any kerb damage. Make sure the rear seats fold as they should, and the rear tailgate opens and shuts properly. It’s worth checking any electrical equipment on board as well.
What are the most common problems with a used Mercedes B-Class hatchback?
There are currently no recalls against this model of B-Class.
However, on the previous model owners reported niggles relating to non-engine electrics, with these centred on the engine management, sat-nav system and the starting and ignition operation.
Most of the problems were fixed under warranty and within a week, and there are no obvious, or even major, issues that plague the car, although on diesel-engined models the particulate filter can get easily clogged, especially if the car has been used for shorter journeys.
Is a used Mercedes B-Class hatchback reliable?
The B-Class finished in a really good second place in the MPV class in the most recent What Car? Reliability Survey it appeared in, this out of eight models. That was a few years ago, however. While we had examples of the B-Class in our most recent survey there were too few to feature in the rankings.
In our most recent 2024 survey, the similar Mercedes A-Class finished in second place in the family car class out of 26 cars with a great score of 98.7%.
Mercedes as a brand finished in 24th place out of 31 manufacturers in the same survey with an overall score of 89.7%. This put it above Audi, Land Rover and Nissan but below BMW, Hyundai, Kia and Volvo.
Used Mercedes B-Class reliability: the owners' view
The Mercedes B-Class received some mixed feedback in our most recent What Car? Reliability Survey, with readers highlighting key concerns and praises for both petrol and diesel models.
Owners of petrol versions noted some sporadic electrical issues, including faulty infotainment screens and erratic parking sensors. Diesel models were more prone to engine-related complaints, such as stalling and difficulty starting. Both variants saw occasional suspension faults, mostly related to noise.
When it comes to dealer service, experiences are similarly varied. Many readers praised the professionalism and communication skills of staff, with some expressing satisfaction over timely repairs. However, others criticised the high costs associated with parts and labour, alongside delays due to back-ordered components. A few owners also felt customer service was not consistently attentive when resolving ongoing problems.
While stylish and practical, the Mercedes B-Class has room to improve in terms of reliability and after-sales care.
