Here Are The Buick Encore Years To Avoid
Buick Encore by Kevauto — CC-BY-SA-4.0
The Buick brand has been around since the early 1900s but is still a key player in automotive manufacturing and innovation. Although this former household name may be overlooked by many people today, Buicks are still a solid choice for car buyers looking for affordable, safe, and refined vehicles.
The Buick Encore is a subcompact crossover SUV that began production in 2012 and is in its second generation. However, every model and year of Buick will have its pros and cons. This quick review will go over the best Buick Encore years to purchase and the worst Buick Encore years to avoid.
The Short Answer Is: The Buick Encore 2013, 2014, and 2015 Models should be avoided.
These models have a higher incidence of reported issues, including significant problems like a lack of engine power and minor problems such as a problem with the door locks. Some model years are also subject to a handful of recalls, which can signal severe defects and major safety concerns.
Keep reading to learn more about Buick Encore years to avoid and which ones you can trust. We’ll also go over the type of issues you can expect from each model year and approximately how much those issues can cost to resolve.
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Which Year Models of Buick Encore are Safe to Buy Used?
The Buick Encore is a relatively newer vehicle, having only been manufactured since 2012 and going through 2 generations. As with any car, some model years have a better track record than others in terms of reliability and lack of any major mechanical issues.
All of the following Encore models have been relatively safe and reliable, with only a handful of owner complaints. So if you are in the market for an Encore, these model years can be trusted the most:
- 2016 Buick Encore
- 2017 Buick Encore
- 2018 Buick Encore
- 2019 Buick Encore
- 2020 Buick Encore
- 2021 Buick Encore
The Buick Encore underwent a facelift in 2017 and began its second generation of production in 2020. While some model years are better than others, most Encore models are known for being relatively reliable and an excellent option for a used vehicle.
With the Buick Encore, there is a clear pattern of improvement with each model year. Except for a small spike in negative reports in 2017, each year has resulted in fewer consumer complaints. In fact, from 2018 and beyond, the number of complaints on CarComplaints.com has been practically zero. Buick has committed to identifying and resolving any negative issues with their vehicle models.
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Which Buick Encore Years to Avoid?
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. One way to quickly and easily see which model years should be avoided is by looking at real reports from Encore owners on a website like carcomplaints.com.
Based on these reports, we recommend avoiding the following Buick Encore year models:
- 2013 Buick Encore
- 2014 Buick Encore
- 2015 Buick Encore
If you decide to buy one of these Encore model years, you should be prepared for a higher incidence of various problems such as engine trouble, brake issues, recalls, and interior defects.
Some drivers reported an issue with the car battery within just a few years or even a few months of their purchase. The most commonly reported issue was a dead battery, particularly the 2014 model. It seemed that something was causing the battery to drain much faster than it should, and in some cases, even a replacement battery did not entirely solve the problem.
The 2013 model was also plagued by engine problems, including inadequate acceleration and reduced engine power. Many drivers had to replace the turbocharger, which can be very costly.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE BUICK ENCORE
However, with a decade of options, it’s easier said than done to land on the right one. Read on to learn more about the most reliable year Buick Encore offers and anything else you should know.
Although the 2016 and 2017 models are overall a much more trustworthy option than the previous years of the Encore, the 2016 and 2017 models were still plagued by the same engine troubles.
These early models were also riddled with recalls, although many were minor. However, the most concerning recall was a front passenger airbag failure, present in the 2013 model year. Similarly, most subsequent models were subject to various airbag failure recalls, except for the 2018 and 2020 model years. When purchasing an older Buick Encore, as with any used vehicle, it is wise to check and see if any recalls have been adequately addressed.
These issues listed above make the 2013-2015 model years a poor investment. The problems encountered by Encore owners can be very costly to fix. For example, the issue of inadequate power common in the 2013 model is listed on carcomplaints.com as averaging around $600 to fix. Likewise, the turbocharger replacement that has been necessary for many 2013 owners averages a hefty $1,600 to address. These serious issues can be a huge deterrent from buying a Buick Encore from these model years.
Although all 3 of the model years on our list should be avoided whenever possible, the earliest models of 2013 and 2014 are tied for the spot of the absolute worst of all the Buick Encore years to avoid. So proceed with caution if you are looking at buying a Buick Encore from these years, and be sure to obtain a thorough inspection from a qualified third-party mechanic.
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Common Buick Encore Problems
The Buick Encore is known as a reliable subcompact SUV. However, it does have numerous issues that potential buyers like you should know.
- Engine issues - Many Encore years struggle with engine issues, but not as much as the 2017 model year. According to reports, the engine issues reared their ugly heads at relatively low mileage of 11k+ miles. In some cases, the engine issues led to injuries and accidents.
- Faulty airbags and seatbelts - The 2015-2017 Encore models had problematic airbags and seatbelts, prompting GM to recall over 3.6 million vehicles, including the Encore. The defect prevented the frontal airbags and seatbelt pretensioners from activating.
- Brake issues - Severe issues with brakes are also common with the Encore. According to the owners, they would hear noises while braking, or the brakes felt weak and ineffective. Some reports claimed that they experienced excessive vibrations and loss of control due to this problem.
- Faulty battery - Not as common as the other issues outlined here, but it’s relatively widespread with the 2014 Encore. Reports stated that drivers couldn’t get their SUV to start. Frustrated owners claimed they had to replace the batteries every four to six weeks, which is unacceptable.
- Easily cracked windshield - Several Encore owners have complained about the windshield’s tendency to easily crack. Unfortunately, those who have encountered the problem have done so in relatively low mileage (13,050 miles on average). According to one user, a small stone hit the Encore windshield and it developed cracks that only worsen over time. Replacing the Buick Encore windshield may cost as much as $550, depending on labor rates.
- Troubled turbochargers - The Buick Encore was marketed to have excellent power, thanks to its turbocharged engine. Sadly, according to several reports, the Encore’s turbocharged engine was also a trouble spot of the lineup. As per the complainants, the turbo would simply stop functioning and you would hear a loud bang coming from the engine bay. As a result, the car will be slow to accelerate and lose considerable power. A brand-new turbo is needed to fix the issue, which may cost between $1,250 to $1,500.
- Transmission issues - Some Encore models also struggled with transmission woes. In some reports, drivers reported that they lost the ability to shift gear into the 3rd, 5th, and reverse positions. Numerous drivers have also complained about slipping gears.
Frequently Asked Questions: Buick Encore Years to Avoid
Q: Which Buick Encore models are recommended to avoid and why?
A: The Buick Encore years to steer clear of are 2013, 2014, and 2015. These models have a higher incidence of reported issues, ranging from significant engine problems to minor annoyances like faulty door locks.
Q: What are some common problems with the 2013 to 2015 Buick Encore models?
A: The 2013 to 2015 Buick Encore owners have reported issues such as inadequate engine power, frequent battery replacements, and various electrical problems. The 2014 model, in particular, was notorious for its battery draining rapidly.
Q: Have any recalls for the Buick Encore, and which years were most affected?
A: Yes, several Buick Encore models, especially from 2013 to 2015, were subject to recalls for reasons including airbag failures and other safety concerns. A recall concerning a front passenger airbag failure also affected the 2013 model year.
Q: What year did the Buick Encore enter its second generation, and how did it affect its reliability?
A: The second generation of the Buick Encore began with the 2020 model year. This generation introduced various improvements and updates, leading to fewer consumer complaints and established the newer models as more reliable.
Are Buick Encores typically reliable?
Over a decade, the Encore has reached best-seller status for General Motors’ Buick Division. This subcompact crossover offers upscale touches in a small package. But not every model year is a worthwhile purchase due to reliability issues. Some of the Encore’s earliest examples don’t have the best reputation for dependability.
How much does a used Buick Encore typically cost?
Pricing for a second-hand Buick Encore will vary significantly, depending on factors like age, mileage, equipment, and condition. Information from CoPilot Price Pulse shows that the average 2014 Buick Encore sells for $13,648, compared to $22,235 for a 2021 Encore. The price for a newer Encore reflects above-average amounts due to a volatile market place and strong demand for small crossover.
Is the Buick Encore a good car to purchase?
Affordability and good fuel economy can make the Buick Encore an attractive buy. But assuming that every Encore is worthwhile can lead to dependability issues later on. Before signing any paperwork, take the time to learn which Buick Encores are reliable.
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