If you’re considering a 2024 Mercedes EQB, reliability is probably high on your list. The EQB combines familiar Mercedes luxury with a compact, family‑friendly electric SUV package, but its reliability story is mixed, especially around the high‑voltage battery and a series of recalls. Let’s walk through what’s really going on so you can decide if a 2024 EQB fits your comfort level, especially if you’re looking at a used one.
Quick take
Overview: How Reliable Is the 2024 Mercedes EQB?
Because the EQB is a relatively low‑volume EV, large‑scale reliability scores from the usual outlets are still limited. Consumer‑oriented ratings often list the **2024 Mercedes EQB** with "no reliability verdict yet" due to small sample size. What we *do* know is based on recalls, owner forums, and how similar EQB model years (2022–2023) have behaved in the real world.
2024 Mercedes EQB reliability snapshot
The headline issue
Major recalls: fire risk and battery issues
Over the last two years Mercedes has issued several recalls that directly affect 2022–2025 EQB models, including the 2024. The most serious are tied to the high‑voltage battery pack and the risk of internal cell failure that can lead to a fire while parked or driving.
Key 2024 EQB recalls you should know about
Always run the VIN through NHTSA or a Mercedes dealer, this is a summary, not a replacement for an official check.
| Recall topic | Model years affected | What’s wrong | Interim risk/limitation | Typical fix |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High‑voltage battery fire risk | 2022–2025 EQB 250/300/350 | Defective battery cells can fail internally and cause a thermal event. | Owners told to limit charge to ~80% and park outside until repaired. | Full battery pack replacement with more robust cells; in some regions, software update that may reduce range. |
| Battery management software recall | Primarily 2022–2024 EQB | Original fix relied on software to limit stress on suspect battery cells. | Letter warns of gradually reduced range and slightly slower DC fast charging over time. | Battery management software update; in some markets now superseded by full pack replacement. |
| Drivetrain gear weld / rollaway risk | Select 2024 EQB units | A welded gear in the front axle drivetrain can fail so Park may not fully hold the vehicle. | If parking brake isn’t engaged, vehicle could roll even when shifter shows Park. | Inspection and replacement of the affected drivetrain component. |
| 12V / electrical system and warning messages,Scattered 2022–2024 builds | Various control units can throw multiple error messages and force the vehicle into limp mode. | Sudden loss of performance or limited speed, usually with a Christmas tree of dash lights. | ECU reprogramming, sensor replacement, or 12‑volt battery replacement depending on diagnosis. |
Battery and drivetrain recalls have the biggest impact on long‑term confidence with the EQB.
Fire‑risk recalls are rare, and serious
Many 2024 EQB owners first received a **software‑only fix** asking them to accept reduced range and slightly longer DC fast‑charging times as mileage accumulates. Mercedes has since moved in some markets to **physically replacing high‑voltage batteries** in affected EQA/EQB models built between early 2022 and mid‑2024. If you’re shopping a 2024 EQB, ask *which remedy* was applied and get documentation.
Other known issues on the 2024 EQB
Beyond the headline battery recall, 2024 EQB owners report a mix of smaller, but still worth‑noting, issues. These tend to be the kind of things that annoy rather than strand you, but they matter when you’re judging reliability and ownership experience.
Common real‑world EQB complaints
Most of these show up across 2022–2025 EQB model years, including 2024.
Random warning lights & limp mode
Some owners describe episodes where the EQB suddenly throws multiple error messages, then drops into a low‑speed "limp" mode until the car is shut down and restarted.
Often traced to sensor or ABS issues, or a weak 12‑volt battery. Annoying, but usually fixable under warranty.
Brake feel & shudder
Complaints range from glitchy brake feel after tire changes to shudder under heavy downhill braking. This isn’t unique to EQB, many EVs blend regen and friction braking, but it’s something test drives may not fully reveal.
Driver‑assist quirks
Owners report occasional phantom braking or overly conservative behavior from route‑based speed assist and adaptive cruise. Several simply disable specific features in the menus and drive on.
Infotainment & CarPlay drops
A few drivers describe Apple CarPlay calls dropping or glitches with the MBUX system. Software updates often help, but verify all updates are current on any used EQB.
Rattles & clicking noises
Some early‑build EQBs developed clicking sounds from the dash or behind the seats, especially on rough pavement. Usually addressed by TSB fixes and trim adjustments.
Cold‑weather charging performance
Like many EVs, the EQB can charge much slower in cold weather. Owners report DC fast‑charge speeds around 50 kW in cold temps unless they pre‑condition the pack.
Shop the service history, not just the car
Battery life, range and real‑world degradation
Battery reliability is at the heart of any EV purchase decision. With the EQB, there are two separate questions: **(1) Is the pack safe?** and **(2) How well does it hold range over time?** The safety side is being managed through recalls. On the durability side, early data is cautiously encouraging.
- Owners with 20,000–30,000 miles on early EQBs report **very low degradation**, often still showing around 95–98% of original capacity in dealer diagnostics.
- Mercedes uses conservative thermal management, which helps battery longevity but can limit fast‑charging speeds compared with some rivals.
- The official EPA range ratings for 2024 EQB trims (depending on battery and drivetrain) are modest rather than headline‑grabbing, but real‑world range reports tend to track the window sticker fairly closely when driven sensibly.
- Where the software‑only recall fix was applied, range is **deliberately reduced** a few percent at higher mileages in exchange for more safety margin.
Battery life in context
Warranty coverage: what Mercedes actually covers
On paper, the 2024 EQB’s warranty coverage is competitive with other luxury EVs. Where things get more complicated is how recalls and software fixes intersect with what’s "normal" wear versus a defect.
Typical 2024 Mercedes EQB warranty coverage (US)
Always verify specifics with a dealer or your paperwork, this is the general pattern for 2024 EQB models sold in the U.S.
| Coverage type | Duration / mileage | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| New‑vehicle limited warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles | Most components other than wear items; covers many of the infotainment and driver‑assist issues if they arise early. |
| High‑voltage battery & components | 8 years / 100,000 miles (from in‑service date) | Defects in battery pack, drive units, and related high‑voltage components. Recalls and TSBs can extend specific items. |
| Corrosion/perforation | Up to 12 years (varies by market) | Rust‑through on body panels, rarely a key concern on modern EVs. |
| Roadside assistance | Term varies by program | Towing to dealer if the vehicle becomes undriveable, including high‑voltage system faults. |
Battery coverage is strong, but doesn’t guarantee you’ll avoid software‑based range limits after safety updates.
Warranty vs. satisfaction
How the 2024 EQB compares to other EVs on reliability
Versus mainstream compact EV SUVs
Against competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, VW ID.4, and Tesla Model Y, the EQB sits **middle‑of‑the‑pack on reliability risk**:
- More serious **battery recalls** than some Korean rivals, but at least being aggressively addressed.
- Fewer high‑profile drivetrain failures than some early ID.4 and Model Y builds.
- More minor **software and driver‑assist quirks** than many mainstream brands.
Versus other electric Mercedes models
Within the Mercedes EQ family (EQA/EQB/EQC/EQS/EQE), the EQB is arguably one of the less risky bets in terms of complexity:
- Shares a lot of hardware with the combustion GLB, which is relatively proven.
- Not as software‑laden or air‑suspension‑dependent as larger EQS and EQE models that have seen more dramatic failures.
- Still, it inherits the **brand‑wide pattern** of spotty dealer support on EV issues in some markets.
When the EQB is a good bet
Buying a used 2024 EQB: what to check
If you’re eyeing a used 2024 EQB, you’re in the sweet spot where depreciation works in your favor but the car is still young. Reliability‑wise, though, your due diligence matters more than usual. Here’s a simple checklist to separate strong candidates from future headaches.
Used 2024 EQB reliability checklist
1. Confirm all recalls are closed
Run the VIN with NHTSA or a Mercedes dealer and verify that **battery‑related recalls and drivetrain rollaway recalls** are marked complete. Ask for printed proof.
2. Ask which battery remedy was used
Was the car given a **software‑only fix** that intentionally trims range, or a **full battery‑pack replacement**? A new pack is a strong positive for long‑term ownership and resale value.
3. Review service history for repeat issues
Look for patterns: multiple visits for "electrical system" warnings, repeated limp‑mode incidents, or brake complaints. One fix is normal; a string of similar repairs is a red flag.
4. Test driver‑assist and braking thoroughly
On your test drive, pay attention to **adaptive cruise, lane‑keep**, and how the brakes feel in stop‑and‑go and on a downhill. You want smooth, predictable behavior with no shudder or random braking.
5. Check fast‑charging behavior (if possible)
If you can, plug into a DC fast charger and confirm the EQB charges at typical advertised speeds for its trim in mild temperatures. Very low sustained speeds may hint at battery limitations or software caps.
6. Inspect glass roof and front glass panel
The glass above the windshield on some EQBs is expensive and sensor‑laden. Check for chips, cracks, or evidence of previous replacement, and make sure any work was done by a qualified shop.
7. Scan for warning messages
Before and after your test drive, scan the cluster and infotainment for **stored warnings** about the high‑voltage system, battery temperature, or driver‑assist failures. Intermittent issues often leave bread‑crumbs.
Use an independent EV inspection
How Recharged can help if you’re shopping a used EQB
A used 2024 EQB can be a solid value, but only if you know exactly what you’re getting. That’s where a data‑driven, EV‑focused approach makes a real difference.
Why shop a used EQB through Recharged
Transparency around battery health and recall history is the key to confident EQB ownership.
Recharged Score battery report
Every EV on Recharged, including the EQB, comes with a Recharged Score Report that verifies battery health, charging performance, and overall condition. You see how the pack is really doing, not just what the range estimate says today.
Recall & service transparency
We dig into **recall completion status, service records, and diagnostic data** so you know whether an EQB has had its battery pack replaced, which software updates are installed, and how it’s been treated.
Expert EV guidance & financing
Need help weighing a 2024 EQB against a Tesla Model Y or Ioniq 5? Our EV specialists walk you through trade‑offs, financing options, and even **trade‑in or consignment** if you’re coming out of a gas car.
You can shop entirely online, get **nationwide delivery**, or visit the Recharged Experience Center in Richmond, VA if you prefer seeing a vehicle in person before deciding. Either way, the goal is simple: remove the guesswork from buying a used electric Mercedes.
FAQ: 2024 Mercedes EQB reliability
Frequently asked questions about 2024 EQB reliability
Bottom line: should you worry about 2024 EQB reliability?
The 2024 Mercedes EQB isn’t a horror story, but it’s also not a "buy it and forget it" appliance. The **battery fire‑risk recalls** and software‑based range limitations are real issues you can’t ignore, yet they’re also signs Mercedes is willing to spend serious money to make things right. Once recalls are fully addressed, most remaining concerns are the usual EV growing pains: software quirks, brake feel complaints, and the occasional rattle or sensor gremlin.
If you value a **compact, upscale EV with a familiar Mercedes driving character**, and you’re willing to do your homework on recall status and battery health, a 2024 EQB can be a smart purchase, especially at used‑car prices where these risks are already baked into the sticker. Partnering with an EV‑focused retailer like Recharged gives you the data, inspection depth, and guidance to decide whether a given EQB is the right one, or whether another used EV will offer the reliability peace of mind you’re looking for.
