The compact seven-seat electric SUV from Mercedes-Benz, based on the same EVA1 platform as the EQA. The EQB 250+ uses a single front-mounted electric motor producing 190 hp, offering a WLTP range of up to 490 km. Production ended in late 2025, replaced by the MMA-based electric GLB from 2026.
Premium interior with 7-seat option
Low routine maintenance as an EV
Major battery recall (Farasis cells)
Moderate DC charging speed (100 kW)
Buy if: You want a compact premium electric SUV with seven seats and can verify the battery recall status before purchasing.
Avoid if: You regularly need fast DC charging above 100 kW or cannot confirm whether the car has had its battery recall work completed.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
Common Problems
Battery cells from supplier Farasis can develop internal short circuits, creating fire risk while driving or parked · more· less
This is the most serious EQB issue. Mercedes-Benz has issued three recall campaigns for EQB 250+ models built between December 2021 and May 2024 with Farasis Energy battery cells. The cells can develop internal short circuits at high states of charge, potentially causing thermal runaway and fire. After two previous software-only fixes failed to fully resolve the issue (post-repair fires were reported in Europe), Mercedes committed in January 2026 to full battery pack replacement at no cost. Approximately 51,729 vehicles worldwide are affected (4,677 in Germany). Until the battery is replaced, owners are advised to limit charging to 80% and park outside. Cost to the owner is zero because Mercedes covers the replacement, but verify with the VIN that the recall has been completed or is scheduled. This is a critical check before any purchase.
12V battery drains within 1-2 weeks if the car sits unused, preventing startup · more· less
A common issue across Mercedes EQ models. The 12V battery is charged via a DC-DC converter only when the car is in Ready mode or during high-voltage charging. If the car sits parked for 1-2 weeks without being driven or charged, the 12V battery can drain below the threshold needed to wake the high-voltage system. Symptoms include the car failing to unlock, dashboard warnings, or complete refusal to start. Mercedes has released software updates to improve 12V management, and later production cars (2024+) have improved DC-DC converter behaviour. Replacement of the 12V battery costs €150-350 depending on the battery type (standard vs AGM). Using a trickle charger during extended parking prevents the issue entirely.
Touchscreen freezes, goes black, or reboots spontaneously during driving · more· less
The MBUX infotainment system can freeze, display a black screen, or reboot mid-drive. This affects navigation, climate controls, and the reversing camera. Early 2021-2022 cars are most commonly affected, and Mercedes has released multiple OTA software updates (up to MBUX 2.6.1) that significantly improve stability. A soft reset (holding the power button for 10 seconds) resolves most temporary freezes. If the head unit hardware fails, replacement costs approximately €300-400 out of warranty. Ensure the car is running the latest software version before purchase.
Battery management software update reduces maximum DC charging speed and usable capacity · more· less
Cars that received the recall software update (before the full battery replacement became available) may have reduced DC charging speeds and slightly lower usable battery capacity. Some owners report maximum charging speeds dropping from 100 kW to 30-60 kW, with sessions taking significantly longer. This is a deliberate safety measure by the BMS software to protect the affected battery cells. Once the full battery pack replacement is completed under the latest recall campaign, normal charging speeds should be restored. If you are considering a car that has only received the software update (not the battery replacement), factor in the reduced charging capability.
Coolant seal failure allows fluid to enter the electric motor, requiring complete motor replacement · more· less
A known issue on early production EQA and EQB models. The electric drive module can develop inadequate seals in the cooling circuit, allowing coolant to leak into the motor windings. Because the motor is a sealed unit, internal coolant contamination cannot be repaired and requires complete motor replacement. Mercedes recalled over 8,000 EQA/EQB units in China for this issue, though European-built cars appear to be less affected. The front motor replacement costs €3,000-6,000 including labour at a Mercedes dealer. Symptoms include coolant level warnings, reduced power messages, or complete loss of drive. This primarily affects early 2021-2022 production cars.
False coolant level warnings triggered by pressure cap or reservoir imbalance · more· less
Some EQB owners report recurring coolant level warnings that are not caused by actual leaks. The coolant reservoir has multiple chambers that can become unbalanced, triggering a caution message. Mercedes released a technical bulletin addressing the coolant cap pressure release valve, and in many cases the fix is simply replacing the cap (approximately €30-50) or topping up coolant. However, any coolant warning should be investigated immediately, as it could also indicate a genuine motor seal leak. Have the dealer check for the known expansion tank imbalance issue versus an actual leak.
Battery recall dominates, but otherwise a typical EV risk profile
The EQB 250+ has one headline issue: the Farasis battery cell recall affecting cars built between December 2021 and May 2024. This is being resolved through free battery pack replacement under warranty. Beyond this recall, the EQB shows typical first-generation EV teething problems: 12V battery drain, MBUX software glitches, and occasional coolant system concerns. The electric motor and drivetrain are fundamentally robust, with few reports of mechanical drivetrain failure outside the coolant seal issue on early production cars. Verify recall status with Mercedes using the VIN before purchasing, and ensure the car runs the latest software version.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
High-voltage battery fire risk - Farasis cells (Dec 2021 - May 2024 production) - third recall, full battery replacement
Critical - verify completed
Front axle drivetrain spur gear weld failure (Feb 2022 - Jan 2023, EQB 300/350 4MATIC only)
Verify with VIN
Electric motor coolant seal leak (Feb 2020 - Oct 2022 production)
Verify completed
Software update for battery management system (preceding the full battery replacement)
Superseded by battery replacement recall
The battery fire recall is critical and should be verified before any purchase. Mercedes-Benz has issued three recall campaigns for the Farasis battery issue, with the latest requiring full battery pack replacement. Even if a previous software-only recall was completed, the car may still need the battery replacement. Contact Mercedes-Benz with the VIN to confirm all recall work is completed. The front axle drivetrain recall affects only 4MATIC (AWD) models, not the EQB 250+ (FWD).
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years, no km limit)
Expired on 2021-2023 models, may remain on 2024-2025
High-voltage battery warranty (8 years / 160,000 km)
Covers degradation beyond 70% capacity
Battery recall warranty
Free battery replacement regardless of age or warranty status
Rust perforation warranty (30 years)
Active on all EQB models
The standard Mercedes-Benz warranty in Europe is 2 years with no km limit. The 8-year battery warranty covers the high-voltage battery pack, including degradation beyond 70% capacity. The Farasis battery recall provides free replacement regardless of warranty status. The 12V battery, MBUX system, and other electrical components are covered only under the standard 2-year warranty. Verify remaining warranty using the VIN and original registration date.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.