Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Isobel Coughlan

The Mercedes GLB is a sleek, premium SUV that boasts great design, clever tech, and loads of space. With its classic 4x4 look and optional seven seats, it’s one of the most practical models in the Mercedes-Benz range – and a strong rival to cars like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3.

But while the GLB scores big on comfort and cargo space, it’s not completely problem-free. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common Mercedes GLB problems. So, whether you’re already behind the wheel or thinking about buying one, you know what to watch for. 

One of the most common complaints from GLB owners involves some unexpected dashboard warnings. The check engine light is a frequent example. This often comes on for minor sensor faults in the emissions system. While not always serious, these alerts can be frustrating, especially if they keep coming back after a reset.

There have also been reports of issues with the electronic stability control system, and in some cases, drivers have seen messages about disabled anti-lock brakes. While these systems often kick in unnecessarily due to faulty readings rather than real safety risks, they’re not something you want to ignore.

going on in terms of electronics, so things like these are bound to pop up now and then. From erratic infotainment responses to glitches in the instrument cluster, these bugs are usually more annoying than dangerous, but still worth flagging with your garage if they stick around for long.

Engine and gearbox problems in the Mercedes GLB

The GLB is a nice drive, according to its owners. But some have noticed concerns around engine and gearbox performance, especially in older diesel models or those with lots of miles. These include:

Despite its premium badge, the GLB doesn’t always deliver the quietest ride. 

Road noise is something several owners have mentioned, particularly at motorway speeds or on rougher surfaces. This may come down to your choice of tyre or a lack of insulation compared to more luxurious siblings like the Mercedes GLC.

Some drivers also notice a slightly disconnected feel through the steering wheel or brake pedal. While this doesn’t affect safety, it can take away from the confident, composed feel you’d expect in a Mercedes. These are more about user experience than mechanical problems, but they’re worth keeping in mind, especially if you’re about to test-drive a used GLB.

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The GLB’s boxy design helps maximise space, but it can create some challenges with rear visibility. The rear window is narrow, and thick C-pillars can make reversing more difficult without the help of sensors or a reversing camera. 

There’s also mixed feedback about the driving position. Some shorter drivers feel the seat doesn’t adjust low enough, while taller drivers mention limited thigh support. Again, this isn’t a major fault, but it can affect you on long-distance journeys. 

Strengths that help balance out the flaws

Even with a few faults to keep in mind, the GLB gets a lot right. Features like cruise control, wireless charging, and optional seven seats make it incredibly versatile. It feels premium where it counts, and details like the signature alloy wheels and MBUX infotainment system add a modern, high-end touch. 

Space is another win. Boot room and rear headroom are surprisingly generous for a car in this class. For many drivers, especially those with big families, these strengths far outweigh the relatively minor issues.

The Mercedes GLB isn’t flawless, but most of its problems are manageable, especially if you catch them early. Like any tech-heavy modern SUV, it can bring electrical glitches, warning light scares, and the occasional drivetrain hiccup. But with regular servicing and a good understanding of what to expect, the GLB can still be a reliable choice.

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Is the Mercedes GLB reliable? Here’s what owners say

The Peugeot 3008 is one of the UK’s most popular crossovers, with space, style, and all kinds of clever features. But like any car, it’s not without its quirks. Whether you’re thinking about buying one or already drive one, it helps to know what might pop up. 

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common Peugeot 3008 problems, from annoying warning lights to more serious mechanical faults, so you know what to expect and how to deal with them.

Yes, the Peugeot 3008 is generally a reliable car, especially newer models. Most owners are happy with its smooth drive, smart design, and solid everyday performance.

However, like many modern vehicles, it does have a few recurring hiccups that crop up, especially as mileage builds up. Electrical faults and diesel-related problems are the most common, especially in older or high-mileage models. So while it's not perfect, it’s far from a risky choice. Just make sure you know what to look out for.

What is the main problem with the Peugeot 3008?

The most common problem with the Peugeot 3008 is its electrical faults. Drivers regularly note issues like faulty sensors, dashboard warning lights that won’t go away, and general electrical glitches, especially around the infotainment and control systems. These aren’t always serious, but they can be tricky to diagnose. And when that engine warning light won’t switch off, it’s hard to relax behind the wheel.

Mechanical problems that affect performance

While the 3008 feels good to drive for the most part, some mechanical issues can affect its performance over time.

If your 3008 feels less responsive than usual, it’s worth getting it checked before the issue worsens. Catch a fault early, and you could save yourself from a more expensive 

If you own a diesel 3008, there are a few extra things to look out for.

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The Peugeot 3008 has a pretty smart cabin layout, but a few comfort features can cause headaches over time.

One of the most common complaints is the air conditioning not cooling properly, which often comes down to a failing compressor, low refrigerant levels, or clogged filters. It’s especially noticeable in warmer months when the system is under pressure to perform.

Glitches with the centre console are also fairly common. These can affect things like touchscreen responsiveness, media playback, and even access to climate control functions – frustrating when you rely on those features every day.

Another issue involves the external mirrors failing to adjust electronically. This typically happens during colder months and may be caused by moisture buildup or a frozen mechanism. It’s a small fault, but one that can quickly become inconvenient on busy mornings or long motorway drives.

While none of these problems are dealbreakers, they do get in the way of the comfortable, high-tech experience you expect from a car in this class.

What’s the issue with the Peugeot 3008 automatic gearbox?

The main issue with the Peugeot 3008’s automatic gearbox is jerky or delayed gear changes. Some owners mention a slight hesitation when pulling away, rough shifting between gears, or unusual noises during acceleration. It’s not a major fault, but it does appear in certain models, often leading to a costly 

 if left for too long. If you’re buying used, it’s worth taking it on a full test drive to spot any trouble early on.

The Peugeot 3008: Not perfect, but far from a problem

Every car has its faults, and the 3008 is no exception. While it offers a great drive and loads of comfort, it’s worth keeping an eye on key problem areas – especially electrical systems, diesel components, and suspension wear. That said, most of these are fixable, and if you catch them early, they don’t have to break the bank. 

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Common problems that Peugeot 3008 owners should know

Veelvoorkomende problemen die Peugeot 3008-eigenaars moeten kennen

Problemas comunes que los propietarios del Peugeot 3008 deben conocer

Der Peugeot 3008: Ein beliebter Crossover mit Stil – und ein paar Eigenheiten

 was added to the VW range in 2019 to capitalise on the popularity of the compact-SUV bodystyle. Sales were strong, with many people liking the elevated ride height, however, some owners did report some issues with build quality and reliability of the T-Cross. 

If you’re in the market for a used T-Cross, make sure to read this guide on all their common and potential problems.

Yes, overall the T-Cross is reliable, achieving a 98% reliability rating from What Car? magazine. This means it is generally more reliable than VW cars on average, with the company placing 18th out of 31 manufacturers in 2018.

A recall was issued for a very small number of VW T-Cross models, when a defect was discovered that affected the deployment of the side curtain airbags - the ones that cover the side window area. It only affected cars made between late May and early June 2019. 

It is extremely unlikely that your car would be affected, as only 35 cars fall into the date bracket, but it’s still worth checking if you already own a T-Cross or are looking into buying one. 

A recall happens when the manufacturer is made aware of a quality issue or fault that could be dangerous, they are obliged to have the fault repaired at one of their dealerships, at no cost to the owner.

You can check to see if your car is affected by this or any other recalls by using the government site 

The most common engine used in the T-Cross is the VW 1.0 TSI engine, which is a 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, available in most of the company's smaller cars, as well as many SEATS, Skodas and Audis. 

It is an incredibly well-made engine, with good power and economy figures, especially for its size, but there is one issue that could be considered a known problem - the turbo actuator.

The turbo is a device attached to the car's engine that essentially makes it more efficient; most modern cars, petrol or diesel, are now fitted with a turbo. The fault causes the turbo to not operate, hindering performance and efficiency.

The fault is likely to present as a warning light on the dashboard, and/or reduced performance. Either symptom may cause the other to occur, so you’ll usually be able to tell pretty quickly if this has happened.

Some sources say the actuator fault was remedied after 2020, by an upgraded design, so you should be okay in a car made in 2020 or later, but it’s good to be aware of the issue ahead of time.

The T-Cross comes as standard with a techy digital dashboard, which is great for being able to show all different bits of information as you're driving, but it can be the source of problems on some models. 

Owners have complained of two issues: not receiving a warning when the rear seatbelts are not being used, and issues with the adaptive cruise and front assist features. Both are said to be caused by a fault within the cluster itself. 

The rear seatbelt issue can be resolved with a simple part replacement, and the adaptive cruise problem is usually resolved with a software update, but both issues are best resolved at the dealership.

If you’re looking for a compact SUV and like the styling of the T-Cross, I wouldn't let the above issues put you off. Overall, they’re well put-together cars, with a highly efficient and reliable engine.

With base models starting at around £25,000, it offers pretty good value compared to many other SUVs. For more information on the best cheap SUVs available in the UK, check out 

If you're experiencing issues with the VW T-Cross don't despair. You can split the cost of repairs and services with Bumper's 

. Choose from 1000s of approved garages and dealerships across the country.

 has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

VW T-Cross Problems / Reliability Guide

Motorists preparing to sell their vehicle could be losing out on up to £1,000 – all because of a few scuffed alloy wheels, according to car experts.

While many sellers focus on mileage or service history, experts warn that cosmetic details like wheel condition can make or break a deal with potential buyers.

Alloy wheels are one of the first things a buyer notices, and even minor cosmetic damage can become a negotiation point. Sellers might think it’s only a small scratch, but buyers see cost – and often push for a significant discount.

Recent research by Auto Trader found that 64% of buyers would reconsider purchasing a car with badly scuffed alloys, and over one-third would expect a £250–£500 discount. Some buyers admitted they’d ask for £1,000 off or more.

But this kind of price drop is often avoidable.

In many cases, you can refurbish a single alloy for as little as £60 to £120. Even if all four wheels need work, it’s a fraction of what you’d lose through negotiation. It’s one of the smartest pre-sale investments you can make.

And it doesn’t always need to be a full garage job either.

For light surface damage, confident sellers can use DIY kits with sanding paper, primer, wheel paint and lacquer – available from most motoring stores. But if the wheels are cracked, bent, or diamond-cut, professional repair is the safer choice.

But it's important to stress the importance of safety over savings.

If an alloy has deep gouges or any signs of structural weakness, refurbishment might not be enough. In those cases, replacing the wheel could be the best – and safest – decision.

The top tip? Inspect your alloys well before listing the vehicle online or heading to a dealership.

Smart preparation always pays off. If you’ve taken the time to clean and fix the wheels, it sends a message to the buyer that the rest of the car has been looked after too – and that can easily translate into a better offer.

Drivers Could Boost Car Value by £1,000 With One Simple Fix, Say Experts

Motorists have been urged to think twice before relying on a popular modern car feature designed to save fuel – but could actually be increasing wear and tear on your engine.

The automatic stop/start system, which cuts the engine at traffic lights or in slow-moving traffic, is found in most new vehicles and is often marketed as an eco-friendly upgrade. But according to car experts, regularly using the feature could shorten the life of your engine and lead to expensive repairs down the line.

While start/stop systems are intended to boost fuel 

efficiency and reduce emissions, they’re not always kind to your engine’s key components. The starter motor and battery are under constant strain, and repeated stops and starts can take their toll – especially over time.

This warning follows a viral tip from US mechanic Scotty Kilmer, who said 97% of engine wear happens during ignition – meaning constantly stopping and starting the car only increases that damage.

For drivers who mainly do short, urban journeys with frequent stopping, the risks are higher. Turning the stop/start system off when appropriate could help preserve your engine’s lifespan and reduce long-term costs.

The stop/start system can usually be turned off via a dashboard button, often labelled with an ‘A’ in a circle. While the feature is useful in some scenarios, experts say it’s not one-size-fits-all.

If you’re commuting through stop-start traffic daily, it might be worth switching it off – especially if you drive an older car or want to avoid premature engine wear.

With more drivers holding on to their vehicles longer due to high replacement costs, small adjustments like this can make a big difference.

Drivers Warned Over Popular Car Feature That Could Be Damaging Their Engine

The UK car market offers Japanese vehicles in all shapes and sizes. However, sometimes the car you’re looking for just isn’t there. 

If you're considering importing a car from Japan to the UK, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll walk you through the entire process, from 

 to handling shipping logistics, paperwork, and UK regulations.

We'll also break down the costs involved and share expert tips to ensure a smooth and hassle-free import experience. Let’s dive in.

Step-by-step guide: How to import a car from Japan 

Importing a car from Japan to the UK may seem complex, but breaking it down into five key steps makes the process much more manageable.

Before you do anything, you need to select your Japanese car.

Don’t just pick the first you see. Take some time to think about your daily needs, so you can be sure your chosen vehicle is the right one.

If you can get to Japan, visit dealerships or auctions to inspect and test-drive cars. This is the best way to guarantee quality. 

However, if you can't, you may want to hire a trusted specialist to check the vehicle before you buy. 

Alongside car research, research the sellers and read any fine print to check for hidden fees before payment.

After buying the car, you need to arrange its shipping. 

The key to a successful, on-time shipment is working with an experienced specialist. Browse different agencies looking for one that offers:

You should also check the provider’s reviews. Happy previous customers are key!

There are different ways to ship your car to the UK. Here’s a quick overview of the main ones:

Take pre-shipping photos of your car (e.g., axles and 

Shipping costs vary depending on your chosen car and shipping method. But you can expect them to be between £1,000 to £2,000. 

Next, you must tackle the paperwork. This is crucial to ensure you get through customs without any issues.

Your seller/shipping company will provide some documents. However, you'll have to source others yourself.

Unsure? You may want to consult a specialist for guidance through the options, customs paperwork, and even insurance. 

Customs are done! But the paperwork isn’t over.

You must notify HMCR within 14 days of your car’s arrival. They will confirm whether any duties or VAT 

Next, you’ll have to register the car with the DVLA. The DVLA may even request an inspection of the vehicle. 

When contacting the DVLA, you’ll need to show the following:

Once submitted, you’ll likely wait around six weeks to receive the 

Finally, you need to guarantee your Japanese car meets UK road standards. This usually involved small tweaks, such as changing the speedometer to mph or installing a rear fog light. 

Some cars may also have an IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) test to guarantee its road safety. However, this won’t apply to all car types and ages.

 before you begin driving. Don’t forget this step!

The costs of importing a car from Japan to the UK ultimately depend on your car’s make and model, your shipping process, and whether the car requires any adjustments. However, you can use the average prices to help you plan for the process.

The vehicle purchase cost will totally depend on the vehicle you’re looking to purchase. Average shipping costs range between £1,000 and £2,000, depending on the method you select.

You can estimate import duty and VAT to be around 30% of the car’s total value. 

Compliance modifications tend to sit around £500 to £1,500, and you may also have to pay for an IVA or 

 for another £100 to £300. DVLA registration also costs a further £55.

. The price will be higher for an imported car, but it will again depend on your make and model.

Extra tips and FAQs for importing a Japanese car

That wraps up the step-by-step instructions and costs. But here are some extra tips and common questions to ensure a seamless importing experience.

Will I pay higher insurance on an imported Japanese car?

Yes. Cars imported from Japan have higher insurance costs as they may require car parts that aren’t available in the UK. This leads to higher repair costs, and therefore higher insurance premiums. 

How long does it take to import a car from Japan to the UK?

You can expect the process to take 6 to 12 weeks. This includes arranging your shipping, customs clearance, and any last-minute adjustments to make the 

Do I need to work with a specialist importer?

No, you don’t have to work with a specialist—but a professional can reduce hassle and compliance as they handle all of the paperwork and compliance.

Are there import restrictions on Japanese cars?

Yes, you can import most Japanese cars, but vehicles over 10 years old face simpler regulations. Newer models may require additional tests to meet 

How can I make the importing process more efficient?

Stay organised and on top of the documents to streamline the import time. You should also research all potential costs beforehand and ensure your 

 allows for potential taxes and modifications.

Importing a car from Japan to the UK is an exciting journey—and one that doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Hopefully, this blog serves as a roadmap for your new car purchase.

Learn more about buying a new car on the Bumper blog.

Importing a car can be expensive, and so can last-minute repair fees!

, you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost. 

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers. 

Importing a Japanese Car to the UK – Costs, Regulations & More

An internal combustion engine has many different sensors and computers, all working to monitor the various inputs and outputs of the engine. When something out of the ordinary is detected, the computer alerts the driver.

One of the most common indicators of a fault is the Engine Management Light. You’ve probably seen it at some point, it is a universal shape across almost all car brands. But what exactly does the light mean?

Where is the Engine Management Light and What Does it Look Like?

Each car is slightly different, but the engine management light (EML) will probably display somewhere around your speedometer. It’s a good idea to check where it is, and that it’s working before a fault occurs.

To see the light - and all the other warning lights - turn the car's ignition on, but don’t start it yet, the lights will illuminate as part of the usual starting procedure. Look for this shape:

What Do Different Engine Management Lights Mean

Whilst the shape of the EML is standard, it can appear in different colours and states. These are the likely EMLs you may see:

What Does A Steady Orange Engine Management Light Mean?

A steady orange EML is the least severe kind, it indicates an issue with the engine that should be investigated but does not warrant immediately pulling over and stopping.

If your car has an orange engine warning light lit, get it booked in as soon as possible but it will most likely be fine to complete your journey.

What Does A Flashing Orange Engine Management Light Mean?

A flashing light is usually an indicator of something more serious, if you have an orange, flashing engine management light on your dash, pay close attention to how the car is driving and ideally get it looked at that day. 

Especially avoid driving on dual carriageways or motorways whilst this light is lit, just in case the fault causes a breakdown. Don’t make any unnecessary journeys until the car has been looked at.

What Does A Red Engine Management Light Mean?

Red warning lights almost always indicate a serious fault. If your engine management light is red, stop driving as soon as possible and contact your recovery company. 

Continuing to drive could well compromise your safety and the car's engine. 

What Can Cause the Engine Management Light to Come on?

The EML is a generic fault indicator that can be triggered by many different issues. That said, the most likely cause will be one of the following:

Is the Engine Management Light an MOT Failure?

Yes, if the engine management light illuminates at any point during the MOT test, it will be considered a serious fault and will fail your MOT.

That said, this rule only applies to petrol cars registered after 1st July 2003 and diesel vehicles registered after 1st July 2008.

How Can I Turn off an Engine Management Light?

If your car has an engine management light illuminated, the best thing to do is get the fault investigated and repaired, this will remove the light. 

A diagnostic scan tool can turn off the light, by clearing the fault code in the 

, but unless the problem is also fixed, the light will come back on within seconds of starting the engine.

To make car repair bills easier, use Bumper’s zero-percent interest 

Can I Drive My Car with an Engine Management Light on?

Depending on the severity of the fault, indicated by the colour of the EML, you may be able to still drive the car. 

A steady orange light is likely to be a minor issue, so only drive if you absolutely have to, if the light is flashing or red, don’t drive it, and consult a mechanic as soon as possible.

Why Do I Lose Power When the Engine Management Light Comes on?

Whilst they often happen together, the EML won't be the cause of the loss of power, both are a symptom of a different problem. This could be that the car is in limp-home mode due to an engine fault, a turbo pipe leak, or something else.

If your car has lost power, don’t drive any further than necessary, as it could be dangerous. Consult a mechanic as soon as possible. 

What Does the Engine Management Light Mean?

The term "mild hybrid" is commonplace nowadays, with most manufacturers making them in some form, but what exactly is a mild hybrid?

In this article, we’ll cover exactly what they are, how they work and whether you should consider one for your next car.

A mild hybrid is a car that features a small electric motor alongside a petrol or diesel engine, but unlike full hybrids, it doesn't have the ability to drive solely on electric power. Both the motor and battery are much smaller than those of hybrid vehicles.

The electric motor helps assist the engine during acceleration, and recovers energy during braking, helping to boost fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Mild Hybrids, unlike plug-in or full hybrids, are usually only slightly more expensive than the petrol or diesel equivalent, thanks to their simplicity.

Mild Hybrid vs Full Hybrid vs Plug-In Hybrid: What’s the Difference?

If you're looking at hybrid cars, you'll quickly notice there isn't just one type. Mild hybrids, full hybrids and plug-in hybrids all use electric power alongside a petrol or diesel engine, but they work in very different ways that can affect your driving experience.

A mild hybrid (MHEV) uses a small battery and electric motor to support the engine. 

It can help during acceleration and recover energy through regenerative braking, but it can't power the car on electricity alone.

A full hybrid (HEV) has a larger battery and can drive short distances using electric power only. 

These systems switch between petrol and electric power automatically and are often most efficient around town.

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) takes things further with a much larger battery that can be charged from an external power source. 

Many can drive for dozens of miles on electricity before the petrol engine kicks in.

Which one is right for you depends on how and where you drive! 

In 2026, mild hybrids offer a simpler route into hybrid ownership because they don't require charging and feel much like a conventional petrol car. 

In contrast, full and plug-in hybrids can deliver bigger fuel savings, but often come with higher upfront costs. We suggest making a budget before committing to any vehicle.

What’s the Difference Between a Mild and Full Hybrid Car?

The key difference between a mild hybrid and a full hybrid lies in how much the electric motor can do and how it is connected to the wheels. A full hybrid, such as the Toyota Prius, has its electric motor connected to the drivetrain in parallel with the engine, meaning either one, or both, can send power to the wheels.

In contrast, a mild hybrid’s electric motor is attached to the engine, and can only assist whilst the engine is running, meaning you cannot drive on electric power alone.

In a mild hybrid car, the electric motor works in tandem with the internal combustion engine (ICE). It doesn't drive the wheels by itself but contributes power to the engine in certain situations, such as when you accelerate from a standstill.

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