Buick Encore problems

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The Buick Encore is a subcompact crossover SUV built by General Motors from 2012 to 2022. It is subcompact crossover SUV marketed by Buick and its fourth SUV overall after the Rendezvous, Rainier, and Enclave.

The "Encore" designation was previously used by American Motors Corporation (AMC) for the subcompact two and four-door hatchback variants of the U.S.-built front-wheel drive Renault Alliance from 1984 to 1987.

First generation (2013)

The first-generation Encore is a restyled first-generation Chevrolet Trax, and shares the same styling with the European Opel/Vauxhall Mokka. It debuted at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 10, 2012, and went on sale at the end of 2012. The North American Encore is assembled at the GM Korea plant in Bupyeong, South Korea alongside the Trax. The Chinese market Encore is assembled in Shandong.

The 2013, 2014 and 2015 Encore in the U.S. was offered in Base, Convenience, Leather, and Premium level models with the A14NET 1.4-liter inline-four multi-port fuel injected (MFI) VVT turbo gasoline engine rated at 128 hp (95 kW; 130 PS) @ 4900 rpm coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It was available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) versions.

For 2016, a new Sport Touring second tier model was added which included an 18-inch alloy wheels with midnight silver finish, rear spoiler, body-color door handles, remote start, fog lights, and a new more powerful B14XFT Ecotec inline four-cylinder direct fuel injection VVT engine rated at 153 hp (114 kW; 155 PS) @ 5600 rpm in Encore marketing materials. However, Opel in Europe rates the engine for the Mokka at 150 hp (112 kW; 152 PS) @ 4900–6000 rpm.

The Ecotec direct-injection engine package includes Stop/Start technology to improve fuel economy and was made available as an option on all but the base model for 2017 and 2018. In 2017, the model levels became Base, Preferred, Sport Touring, Preferred II, Essence, and Premium.

photo of Buick Encore car production

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Buick Encore model years

buick encore 2022 photo
Encore 2022
Buick

5

0

15

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick encore 2021 photo
Encore 2021
Buick

4

0

26

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick encore 2020 photo
Encore 2020
Buick

12

2

23

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick encore 2019 photo
Encore 2019
Buick

49

2

21

4.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick encore 2018 photo
Encore 2018
Buick

49

0

27

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick encore 2017 photo
Encore 2017
Buick

63

2

16

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick encore 2016 photo
Encore 2016
Buick

63

2

25

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick encore 2015 photo
Encore 2015
Buick

113

4

25

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick encore 2014 photo
Encore 2014
Buick

54

4

21

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick encore 2013 photo
Encore 2013
Buick

52

6

15

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Buick Encore problems

The Buick Encore, a subcompact SUV, has been known to have several common problems that potential buyers should be aware of. These issues range from engine problems to faulty airbags and seatbelts, brake issues, faulty batteries, easily cracked windshields, and transmission problems.

Engine issues are prevalent in many Encore years, but the 2017 model year stands out with a significant number of engine problems reported at relatively low mileage.

Brake issues are another common problem in the Encore, with owners reporting noises while braking, weak and ineffective brakes, excessive vibrations, and loss of control due to these problems.

Transmission problems are also prevalent in the Encore, with several owners reporting issues such as slow shifting into forward gear, rough shifting, slipping transmission, and leaks. These issues can be frustrating and expensive to repair, with some repairs potentially costing thousands of dollars.

In summary, while the Buick Encore is known as a reliable subcompact SUV, it does have numerous issues that potential buyers should be aware of. These problems include engine issues, faulty airbags and seatbelts, brake issues, faulty batteries, easily cracked windshields, and transmission problems. Buyers should be cautious when considering purchasing a Buick Encore, particularly from the problematic model years, and should ensure that any potential issues are thoroughly inspected and addressed by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase.

Buick Encore

Does the Buick Encore have issues?

As with any vehicle, some model years of the Buick Encore have been less reliable than others. These models have caused their owners costly issues like engine trouble and electrical problems.

How reliable are the Buick Encores?

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.

How many miles will a Buick Encore last?

150,000 and 200,000 miles

If the engine is well-maintained, it can last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. Assuming you drive an average of 15,000 miles each year, you should expect your Buick Encore to last around 13 years.

What is the most common problem with the Buick?

'They all said something different': Mechanics break down the most common issues they've seen with Buicks

  • Valve cover gaskets.
  • Oil pans.
  • Failing emissions – “We've had like three of them in the shop in the past week.”
  • Water pumps.
  • Turbos.
  • Oil filter housing leaking.
  • Timing chains.
  • Transmissions.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Buick Encore years

We have researched Buick problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Buick Encore cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Buick Encore model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Buick Encore model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Buick Encore years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Buick Encore car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Buick Encore , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Engine problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Buick Encore vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Encore model years

A total of 46 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Encore model years

There were a total of 7 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Encore model years

There were a total of 64 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Encore model years

There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 464 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Buick Encore . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Buick Encore vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Buick Encore 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
  • VIN: KL4CJASB7HB
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I HAVE AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. WHEN I AM STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT ON AN INCLINE, THE CAR WILL SOMETIMES ROLL BACKWARDS WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE OR WHEN CHANGING MY FOOT TO THE GAS PEDAL TO MOVE FORWARD ONCE THE LIGHT CHANGES. THE MORE THE INCLINE; THE WORSE THE PROBLEM. This happens at a bus stop in a community with an incline and kids at a bus stop. This feeling is as I am driving a manual vehicle. It's not a good feeling knowing that there's children around and knowing that we want our children around for the future and something like this happens with a vehicle, the service department in the dealership cannot find what the problem is. This has happened to my car more than once. I have complained about it once and I am complaining about it again. I have low mi on my car and now, this has happened between the low miles of my car after purchasing up to miles. I have on it now .I've got 110,000 mi on my car and it still is not being repaired and is still happening. And it's bad. Once the car is paid off it turns into multiple problems with my car. Up
Buick Encore 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
  • VIN: KL4CJASB7HB
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: 1. Valve cover gaskets been replaced in valve covers been replaced twice. 04/16/2024. 95113 miles 2. Air conditioning cooling leak and the fan motor would not shut off unless disconnecting the battery cable. 08/26/2024 at 100,254 miles 3. The turbocharger inline for the oil intake has been replaced . The car cannot completely carry a full carload without having no power to get up hills. I have no power once in a while if I'm alone driving just on a straight road or going uphills it seems like there's no gas getting to it I have good gas but it doesn't happen all the time. And I guess to where it will slow down from 55 to 35 pushing on the gas pedal with no power at all and then all the sudden it will go. Trying to explain this the best I can. 09/29/2024 at 101, 313 miles
Buick Encore 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-29
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
  • VIN: KL4CJFSB8GB
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Acceleration was reduced immediately on the freeway after the check engine light came on the day before with a P0299 code for turbocharger repair. Now the vehicle will not start and the dealership service said an additional code of po366 is now showing. Are these related? The turbocharger has an extended special coverage, but not engine repair that is likely the result of the turbocharger failure.
Buick Encore 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
  • VIN: KL4CJCSB4GB
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: In 2021, My ex husband received a notice from Buick extending the warranty to 120,000 on the Turbo Charger fuel injector due to failure in many vehicles. It was not included as a recall. In the State of Texas, vehicles must have an annual inspection to remain legal to drive. Each vehicle receives an annual Sticker. My sticker and inspection were due in July. In May of 2024, my check engine light came on. I took it to Autozone to diagnose, and they said it was the turbo charger. Since I had no idea my ex-spouse had a letter, I purchased fuel injector cleaner and did this every week. Chevron 92 has always been my gas of choice. Unfortunately, it only cleared the engine light for a few days and my vehicle failed inspection at 120,000 miles. I took my Buick Encore to a traveling mechanic, who cleaned the injectors (supposedly), and after driving about 100 miles and in July finally passed inspection to avoid a citation. At 122,00 miles, on [XXX] I drove my Buick to Dallas Texas, 571 miles one way. I barely made it; the check engine light came on again and the vehicle could barely accelerate. I stopped multiple times to install injector cleaner, used only the best 92 gas at chevron. When I arrived, i took my 2016 Buick Encore to Firestone. They diagnose the Turbo Charger again. unfortunately, the vehicle had reached 123,000 miles by then. They cleaned the Turbo charger but could not replace it. At that time, they let me know that might be a manufacturers defect, since this part should definitely last much longer than 123,000. Barely making it home again, with my [XXX] mother with me, I took my vehicle to Gay Buick GMC to get the Turbo Charger replaced. Buick informed me this was too far past the 120,000 and refused to even replace the part if I paid for labor. This is a $2,653.48 cost. May I ask for your assistance in a remedy, at least for the $700.00 part? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Buick Encore 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
  • VIN: KL4CJASB3JB
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Stalling and shuts off. Low power when accelerating. Car has been so slow to take off that when merging into on coming traffic I have to move to shoulder & then try again to prevent an accident. Coughs, putt & squeaking sounds.Car shakes while in park or not in motion. Check engine light on.
Buick Encore 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
  • VIN: KL4CJASB6JB
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: There are many Buick Encores, including 2018 that have a problem with acceleator position sensors. My car’s vin # shows that it does not have this notice, and thus no problem. However, in July this 2018 Buick Encore went into ‘limp mode, check engine light came on. Code for problem was 2138 (accelerator Pedal Position Sensor) The initial dealer solution was to apply dielectric grease. However, this ‘cure’ lasted . 15 miles, when it went into limp mode,,, again check engine icon came on THIS is very dangerous, as it cannot accelerate and from a stop, it does not move until a minute later… that is so frightening, I again took it to the deaer, same code of P2138, and now they recommend the accelerator pedal positon sensor replacement…. THIS is identical to the problems with the other Encores, This is a severe safety issue, and the rest of the 2018 Buick Encores should be included for notification AND repair .
Buick Encore 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-29
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
  • VIN: KL4CJBSB1FB
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated that the vehicle was sputtering and jerking while attempting to accelerate while driving at various speeds, and while the vehicle was idling. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the catalytic converter had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was informed about the failure and confirmed there were no recalls on the VIN. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 86,600.
Buick Encore 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-26
  • VIN: KL4CJASB5KB
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was diagnosed with fuel pump and thermostat failure. The contact was informed that the fuel pump and thermostat needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure had recurred. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed, the vehicle lost motive power with no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made not aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Buick Encore 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-06
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
  • VIN: KL4CJASB2KB
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Transmission whirring, vehicle is skipping while driving, gear/rpm not downshifting after acceleration
Buick Encore 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-17
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-14
  • VIN: KL4CJESB4HB
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Turbo has cracked like multiple other encores covered under a recall N232395330 id like to know why my car is not covered but the others are??
Buick Encore 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-02-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-09
  • Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power, power steering, and brake functionality. The vehicle began to shake, and the brakes and steering wheel became inoperable. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, where the mechanic test drove the vehicle but was unable to duplicate the failure. While driving, the fan failed to turn off. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer Orange Buick GMC (3883 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808), where it was diagnosed that the coil and relay needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle failed to accelerate above 65 MPH. The brake pedal was depressed but the vehicle failed to respond. The vehicle was taken back to another local dealer, Gettel Chevrolet Buick GMC (1901 Tamiami Trl, Punta Gorda, FL 33950), where it was diagnosed that the fan, relay, and spark plugs needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact about repairing the vehicle and the process for reimbursement. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000. The VIN was not available.
Buick Encore 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-27
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-06
  • VIN: KL4CJESB3JB
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Turbo charger has A leak, dealer stated they knew it had a leak but they couldn't find it. All they did was clear the code. My car has A check engine light, and a trouble code of PO299, does not maintain proper speed, has issues with acceleration.
Buick Encore 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-05
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-06
  • VIN: KL4CJFSB8FB
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated. The contact stopped the vehicle and added coolant and drove to the residence. The contact stated that the next day while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became abnormally stiff, making it difficult to maneuver the vehicle. Additionally, the radio and instrument panel became inoperable. The message "Check Power Steering Unit" was displayed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V146000 (Steering). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 108,172.
Buick Encore 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-02
  • VIN: KL4CJASB4GB
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: 2016 Buick Encore VIN [XXX] approximately 60,000 miles. The vehicles turbo had a catastrophic failure pushing oil into the engine, and the catalytic converter causing extensive damage to both. The description from the first mechanic shop, I took it to descripted it as the turbo exploded, spewing oil everywhere. Buick knows the turbo engine is faulty and they issued a 'special' warranty, however the warranty doesn't cover the damage caused by their faulty turbo engine. There wasn't anything I could've done to prevent this. In fact, the GM dealership replaced the turbo and that turbo failed and had to be replaced. I've been asked to cover the cost of repairing the engine, catalytic converter and clean the oil that sprayed the engine compartment. In hindsight, Buick should've issued a full recall on the turbo. They made a business decision not to recall the turbo, but they need to accept responsibility. Living in rural Northern Wisconsin, we are fortunate that this didn't happen in the winter. The resolution I seek is GM/Buick accept responsibility and cover the total cost of repair. This isn't directed at any of the GM/Buick employees I've dealt with, they have all been courteous and professional. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Buick Encore 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
  • VIN: KL4CJASB6HB
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Turbo replaced under recall in March 2024 at local GMC dealership. June 2024 oil changed at independent service center and was informed that oil leak from turbo present. Vehicle brought back to dealership in June 2024 where vehicle was repaired for oil feed line being loose at the feed line. July 2024 car taken to independent mechanic and informed that a new turbo is needed. If turbo problem persists it will result in the vehicle shutting down while driving, violent shaking of the engine, and acceleration issues that could result in full engine failure if not resolved. The repairs done for the recall has not rectified the faulty turbo problem. The faulty turbos originally installed and being used for replacements are a safety hazard for any Buick Encore driver.

Latest 5 recalls Buick Encore

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 22 recalls for different components of the Buick Encore.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Buick Encore 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2020-10-29
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
  • Consequence: Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.
  • Model: Buick Encore 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2020-10-29
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
  • Consequence: Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.
  • Model: Buick Encore 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2020-09-03
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Encore GX and 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. The rear attachment bolts of one or both front seats may not have been installed.
  • Consequence: If an occupied front seat is missing the rear attachment bolts, it may move during a crash, increasing risk of injury to the occupant.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect seat attachments for both front seats and install attachment bolts as needed, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is A202304380.
  • Model: Buick Encore 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2018-11-01
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019 Buick Encore, Chevrolet Spark, Traverse, and Trax vehicles. The Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM) on these vehicle may not have been turned off of "manufacturing mode," preventing the air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.
  • Consequence: If the air bags do not deploy in the event of a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the SDM module to the correct mode, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 and Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 18365.
  • Model: Buick Encore 2017
  • Report Received Date: 2017-07-10
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse and Chevrolet Spark EV, Caprice PPV and SS vehicles, 2014-2017 Buick Encore and Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles, 2015-2016 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Trax, Suburban and Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles, and 2015-2017 GMC Sierra HD 2500 and 3500 vehicles. While being previously remedied for recall 16V-651, the affected vehicles may not have received the complete software update necessary to remedy the recall condition. Without the update, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.
  • Consequence: A failure of the front air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy in the event of a crash necessitating deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will reflash the SDM software. Vehicles that have had a previous air bag deployment will have the SDM replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 17287.

Latest negative Buick Encore car reviews

  1. Anderson Cartwright 2024-11-24

    Vehicle year: 2015

    It's unfortunate, but I had to say goodbye to my beloved Mini Cooper S. As much as I loved turning heads with it, I needed a vehicle that could accommodate my flooring samples. After some searching, I found the Encore, which offered more space without sacrificing its small size. While the Cooper had some mechanical issues, it was incredibly fast - I could easily push it to 90 mph on I H 35. The Encore, on the other hand, struggled to accelerate from 50 mph to 60 mph when passing other vehicles. It's not the most powerful car out there, but it does have plenty of room and is loaded with sensors and a backup camera. Ultimately, I decided to trade it in after owning it for just one year. If you're looking for a car to drive around town or run errands, the Encore is a great choice - just don't expect it to have the same power as the Cooper.

  2. Kip Hoeger 2024-11-23

    Vehicle year: 2015

    Despite being only 5 years old with less than 70K miles, my 2015 Buick Encore with leather and navigation has been giving me a lot of problems over the last year. Although I loved it when I first got it as a rental, it has been in the shop on multiple occasions recently. The oil handler went first, which cost ~$800 to diagnose and repair. Most recently, the engine overheated with my two little ones in the car, which forced a ‘power saver’ feature to kick on and the power steering went out. Currently, I am waiting on a call back from the dealership since the car won’t stay on now even after jumping (shuts off as soon as the cables are removed). As a 5 year old Buick with less than 70K miles, I expected more from it. However, I am confident that the dealership will be able to resolve the issue soon.

  3. Casimer Kuvalis 2024-11-21

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I recently visited the dealer to upgrade to a small SUV. I had my eye on the Encores for a while, so I test drove one and it was really nice. The car had a pearl white color, roof rack, and was the top tier of the selection with 40,000 miles. Before making the purchase, I did my research. However, after driving it for only 6 miles from the dealership to my friend's place, the check engine light turned on and the car stopped working. I had to tow it back to the dealership, and they told me that the emc was the issue and it could be replaced. But, unfortunately, the same thing happened again. After returning to the dealership, I was glad that I had a 5-day money-back guarantee, so I was covered. However, I would not recommend buying this vehicle.

  4. Milo Russel 2024-11-21

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I recently had to get rid of my car due to some issues with the steering wheel column and the radio. The repairs were becoming quite costly and I decided it was time to move on. While I did have to replace a part on the passenger side roof, I'm hopeful that it will hold up better than the previous one. Overall, my experience with this car has been frustrating, and I don't think I'll be purchasing a Buick again in the future.

  5. Conor Sawayn 2024-11-17

    Vehicle year: 2014

    Hey there! If you're planning on keeping your Encore for a while, I'd definitely recommend getting an extended warranty. I've had some major repairs to deal with since passing 80,000 miles on mine.

Latest positive Buick Encore car reviews

  1. Garett Runolfsson 2024-11-29

    Vehicle year: 2015

    It's great to hear that you find the car comfortable to sit in and drive. Kudos to Buick for creating such a well thought out vehicle!

  2. Tobin Hagenes 2024-11-28

    Vehicle year: 2018

    I'm so glad I purchased this mini SUV! I bought a used 2018 model in July 2020 with only 19k miles on it. I've only had it for a week, but I'm already really impressed. It's incredibly fuel-efficient - I've only used less than a quarter tank of gas in a week! The interior is also fantastic - very comfortable and up-to-date. The radio and cabin are both modern and high-quality. While it's not the fastest car out there, I don't think speed is a top priority for those in the market for a mini SUV. Overall, I think this model is better than some other makes and models that are brand new in 2020.

  3. Deondre Steuber 2024-11-27

    Vehicle year: 2017

    Great find! It's within our budget.

  4. Chadrick Heller 2024-11-23

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I can tell you really enjoy this car! It seems like it's a lot of fun to drive and outperforms other SUVs.

  5. Florencio Kovacek 2024-11-22

    Vehicle year: 2019

    I sold Hondas and Toyotas for 32 years, but I never considered buying a domestic car. However, after test driving everything in this class, the Encore won hands down for its ride, quietness, price, and standard features. Except for the Kia, it has the best warranty. I love the way it handles in traffic and on the open road. Buick has really stepped up its game for quality. Also, the price was the lowest with the new GM employee pricing. I would highly recommend this car to anyone.

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