Buick Encore Reliability and Common Problems

The Buick Encore is a subcompact SUV that’s enjoyable to drive, offering good engine power, agile handling, and a notably quiet cabin. For a vehicle from a luxury brand, the Encore isn’t that expensive to own, with an average cost of around $500 for annual repairs and maintenance. It doesn’t hold value very well, though. According to CarEdge.com, the Encore depreciates by 35% after 5 years.

Are Buick Encores Reliable?

The Buick Encore is a reliable subcompact SUV. It received a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating from RepairPal, ranking 5th out of 7 vehicles in the same category. The Encore is known as a capable subcompact, while also providing a luxurious feel with its overall design and ride quality. You can also drive it for a long time, as it easily lasts up to 200,000 miles or around 13 years with little to no problems as long as it’s given proper care and maintenance.

Top Buick Encore Problems

Despite being a reliable vehicle, some Buick Encore models have their share of problems. Here are the most common issues for different Encore models:

Engine Problems

The 2017 Buick Encore’s engine problems can get pretty bad. Some owners have shared that their SUVs would exhibit multiple issues, such as poor acceleration, excessive smoke, and stalling. They’ve also shared that their Encores unexpectedly caught fire near the front of the vehicle. Many owners have expressed disappointment because of these problems. They usually happen to Encores that are relatively new at around 11,400 miles. According to reports, there are confirmed injuries and accidents linked to these engine problems. Some owners have taken their vehicles to their dealerships, but technicians couldn’t find anything wrong with them. If you notice any symptoms of engine problems with your Encore, get it checked immediately to avoid any severe complications.

Defective Airbags and Seatbelts

One of the notable problems with the 2015-2017 Buick Encore is its defective airbags and seatbelts. This prompted General Motors LLC (GM) to recall over 3.6 million vehicles of different makes and models. This includes 2015-2017 Buick Encore units under recall #16007. 

According to GM, a defective airbag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software may engage its diagnostic test setting. While activated, it can stop the frontal airbags and seatbelt pretensioners from deploying in the event of a crash. GM has advised that owners with affected Encores can get their SDMs replaced at their dealerships for free. If your SUV is included in this recall, contact Buick as soon as you can for more information.

Loss of Power

The 2016 Buick Encore has problems with its powertrain. Some owners have reported that the Encore’s check engine light would illuminate and the engine would lose power. One owner expressed frustration as this problem caused their vehicle to slow down on the freeway, which was incredibly unsafe. There are some reports that the vehicle shuddered, while sometimes it stalled. The cause of the issue seems unclear. One owner went to the dealership right after this issue, but the mechanics didn’t find anything wrong. Another owner said that the dealership said the entire engine needed to be replaced. Symptoms like loss of power and the illumination of the check engine light seems consistent among several reports.

Brake Problems

One of the most common 2015 Buick Encore problems is its severe brake issues, which can increase the risk of accidents. According to reports, owners have experienced abnormal noises while driving or braking. Some have shared that their brakes didn’t provide enough force, which led to a longer braking distance. Others have reported that they experienced excessive brake pedal vibrations and vehicle control loss due to brake malfunction. They have reported that these brake problems usually happen with fairly new Encores at around 13,000 miles. 

Some have taken their vehicles to their dealerships, but mechanics couldn’t determine the exact cause of the issue. However, multiple technical service bulletins (TSBs) were released for various 2015 Buick Encore brake components, such as TSB #10118969, #10162107, #10137975, #10113990, and more. If you’re experiencing any brake troubles with your Encore, you’re definitely not alone. Make sure to check all the TSBs and consult a mechanic as soon as you notice any signs of brake problems. 

Faulty Radio

Buick Encore radio problems are common, especially with the 2015 model year. These issues may not affect vehicle performance, but they may become a hassle if you need to use your radio and its display. Some owners have reported various issues, such as radio display malfunction and volume settings that change on their own. Many TSBs were released in relation to the 2015 Encore’s radio problems, such as #10151869, #10145488, #10143758, #10140340, and some others. 

These TSBs include issues with the radio’s audio, display functions, rear view camera options, and more. Some owners have shared that they took their Encores to their dealerships, but mechanics couldn’t pinpoint the exact cause. They had to fix these issues on a case-by-case basis. These complications may also be linked to electrical issues, so it’s best to consult a professional as soon as you notice radio problems. 

Faulty Battery

The 2014 Buick Encore’s starting problems are usually linked to its faulty battery that frequently gets drained. Some owners have shared that their SUV’s battery would die every four to six weeks. According to reports, some owners have also found that their vehicles were unable to start because of a dead battery, even if their Encores were working fine the day before. They have expressed great disappointment because their SUVs were relatively new, with only around 12,000 miles. Some have shared that they got their batteries replaced, but the issue kept on happening. This issue may be caused by complications in your electrical system, so consult your mechanic immediately if you’re experiencing this with your Encore.

Acceleration Loss Due to Bad Turbochargers

The 2013 Buick Encore tends to lose acceleration because of bad turbochargers. Some owners have shared that the acceleration loss was accompanied by other symptoms, such as an illuminated check engine light, abnormal noises, and excessive rattling. According to reports, the turbochargers usually give out at around 94,000 miles. Some owners have reported that they were able to resolve this issue by getting their turbochargers replaced. In cases like these, part replacement must be done immediately to avoid further damage to other components. Repairs are expensive, typically costing around $1,650.

Buick Encore Reliability Overview

Whether you’re planning to buy a new or used Buick Encore, you should do your research so that you’re aware of the common issues per model year. Based on user reports, the Buick Encore years to avoid are the 2013 and 2014 models. These earlier models were plagued by engine issues, such as the starting issue mentioned earlier. However, the reliability of the Buick Encore seems to have improved based on user reviews of its later model years, specially the 2016, 2018, and 2019 models.

SUV-shopping always comes with some risk, but making the effort to learn about the model year you’re interested in can help you manage problems as they happen. Just make sure to clarify any details with your seller before making a deal.

Getting Your Hands on New Parts For Your Buick Encore

Try not to drive too much if your Buick Encore has any damaged or worn parts – at least, not until you’ve made the necessary replacements. Luckily, finding said replacements is easy thanks to CarParts.com.

Fortunately, you don’t even have to go outside to get yourself some brand-new parts. All you need to do is visit our website at CarParts.com with your mobile phone or your computer. From here, you can use your vehicle selector. Just be sure to input the necessary details like the year, make, model, and engine of your vehicle.

We only source our auto parts from the most reliable names in the industry, and with our warehouses strategically located all over the US, you’ll receive your order in just a few days.

Check out our collection of high-quality Buick-compatible components today!