2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light Issues in 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle. Begin by checking the gas cap; ensure it is securely tightened and free from damage, as a faulty gas cap is a common trigger for the check engine light. Next, examine the dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that could provide further insight into the issue. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner is a crucial step; connect it to the OBD-II port to retrieve any error codes stored in the vehicle's computer. These codes are invaluable for pinpointing the specific problem. After obtaining the codes, consult your owner's manual to interpret their meanings, which will help you understand the underlying issue better. If these initial steps do not lead to a clear diagnosis or if the problem appears to be more complex, it may be wise to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or dealership. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently troubleshoot the check engine light and potentially save on repair costs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG, it can be concerning, but understanding the common problems that may cause this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which is an easy fix that can often be resolved by simply tightening or replacing the cap. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring exhaust emissions and fuel efficiency; if this sensor fails, it can lead to increased fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or failures, can trigger the check engine light and may require professional attention. Spark plug or ignition coil issues can also lead to misfires, causing the light to illuminate, while a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the engine's air-fuel mixture, affecting performance. Lastly, an engine misfire, which can stem from various factors including bad spark plugs or fuel injectors, is another reason the check engine light may activate. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain your vehicle's performance and prevent further damage, so if you encounter this warning, consider checking these common problems before seeking professional help.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB35 AMG, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency and compromised engine performance, which may escalate into costly repairs. The vehicle's advanced onboard diagnostics system is designed to help you identify the specific issue, making it easier to troubleshoot. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can guide you in understanding the underlying problem. However, while some issues may be minor and manageable at home, others could pose safety risks or lead to significant engine damage if left unaddressed. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the severity of the situation and, if necessary, consult a qualified mechanic to ensure that your vehicle remains in optimal condition. Taking prompt action not only safeguards your investment but also enhances your driving experience.

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