Buick Encore research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Encore is a compact, easy-to-park Buick crossover with a quiet cabin and a high seating position. All U.S. models use a 1.4L turbo four and a 6-speed automatic with FWD or AWD. The 2016 Sport Touring added a livelier 153-hp engine, the 2017 refresh brought new styling and an 8-inch touchscreen, and the 2022 model was the last. It is roomier than it looks up front but has modest cargo space and leisurely acceleration with the base engine.
Model years covered: 2013–2022. The original Buick Encore was sold in the U.S. for 2013-2022 only. 2023 and later 'Encore' listings are almost always the separate Encore GX; there is no 2011-2012 or 2023-2026 Encore in this record.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Easy to park compact size
- Quiet cabin for the class
- Available AWD
- High seating position
- Updated interior and touchscreen 2017 and later
- Stronger 153 hp engine option 2016 and later
Things to know before you buy
- Modest acceleration with 138 hp engine
- Small cargo area
- 1.4 liter turbo coolant and pcv leaks should be checked
- Engine choice varies by trim resolve by VIN
- 2017 is the refresh year
- Do not confuse with encore gx
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 1 (2013–2022)
The only U.S. Encore generation (2013-2022) was built by GM Korea on the Gamma II platform shared with the Chevrolet Trax. It uses a 138-hp, 148 lb-ft 1.4L turbo with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD; a 153-hp direct-injection 1.4L turbo arrived with the 2016 Sport Touring, and the 2017 refresh added new styling, LED taillights and an 8-inch touchscreen. After the Encore GX launched for 2020 the lineup was simplified, and 2022 was the final year.
Buyer takeaway: For value, a 2013-2016 Encore with good maintenance records works well; for the updated cabin and smartphone integration, choose 2017 or later, ideally with the 153-hp engine. Check for coolant and oil leaks and confirm recalls by VIN.
Buick Encore by model year
2022 Buick Encore
The 2022 Encore is the final year of the original model. Its 1.4L turbo is rated 155 hp (up from 138 hp on most 2021 models), still with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD, and EPA lists FWD at about 24/32 mpg. The lineup was simplified around the Preferred trim. Buick's small-SUV role then passed to the Encore GX and later the Envista.
- Engines: 1.4 liter turbo direct injection I4 155 hp
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door subcompact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Final model year of the encore
- Engine rated 155 hp
- Preferred trim lineup
- Replaced in practice by the encore gx and later envista
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Coolant leaks water pump thermostat and turbo lines; Oil leaks valve cover and pcv system; Check engine light and stored codes; Turbo boost and hesitation on test drive; Oil change records; 6 speed automatic shift quality; AWD operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and bluetooth; Maintenance history.
2021 Buick Encore
The 2021 Encore continues as Buick's entry model alongside the Encore GX, with a 1.4L turbo four (138 hp in most listings, with a direct-injection version also listed), a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD, rated about 24-25 mpg city and 30-32 highway. It is a simple, compact choice; confirm the engine and equipment by VIN.
- Engines: 1.4 liter turbo I4 138 hp 148 lb ft; 1.4 liter turbo direct injection I4 available verify by VIN
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door subcompact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Sold alongside the encore gx
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Coolant leaks water pump thermostat and turbo lines; Oil leaks valve cover and pcv system; Check engine light and stored codes; Turbo boost and hesitation on test drive; Oil change records; 6 speed automatic shift quality; AWD operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and bluetooth; Maintenance history.
2020 Buick Encore
For 2020 Buick launched the larger, newer Encore GX as a separate model and began trimming the original Encore toward a value-focused Preferred lineup. The 2020 Encore keeps the 1.4L turbo (138 hp; the 153-hp version's availability varies, so verify by VIN), 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 25/30 mpg FWD). Do not confuse it with the Encore GX.
- Engines: 1.4 liter turbo I4 138 hp 148 lb ft; 1.4 liter turbo direct injection I4 available verify by VIN
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door subcompact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Larger encore gx launched as a separate model
- Encore lineup simplified toward the preferred trim
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Stop start accumulator recall completion; Coolant leaks water pump thermostat and turbo lines; Oil leaks valve cover and pcv system; Check engine light and stored codes; Turbo boost and hesitation on test drive; Oil change records; 6 speed automatic shift quality; AWD operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and bluetooth; Maintenance history.
2019 Buick Encore
The 2019 Encore is a carryover with the 138-hp or 153-hp 1.4L turbo, 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD; EPA lists FWD versions around 25-26 mpg city and 30-31 highway. Some 2019-2020 Encores are in a recall to inspect the transmission's stop-start accumulator bolts, so check the VIN. It was the Encore's best U.S. sales year.
- Engines: 1.4 liter turbo I4 138 hp 148 lb ft; 1.4 liter turbo direct injection I4 153 hp available
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door subcompact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Some vehicles in transmission stop start accumulator recall
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Stop start accumulator recall completion; Coolant leaks water pump thermostat and turbo lines; Oil leaks valve cover and pcv system; Check engine light and stored codes; Turbo boost and hesitation on test drive; Oil change records; 6 speed automatic shift quality; AWD operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and bluetooth; Maintenance history.
2018 Buick Encore
The 2018 Encore continues the refreshed design with the 8-inch touchscreen, a 138-hp or available 153-hp 1.4L turbo (with stop-start), 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 25-27 mpg city and 33 mpg highway FWD). A 2017-2019 model gives the updated cabin and the stronger engine option at a moderate price.
- Engines: 1.4 liter turbo I4 138 hp 148 lb ft; 1.4 liter turbo direct injection I4 153 hp available
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door subcompact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2017
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Engine stop start operation if equipped; Coolant leaks water pump thermostat and turbo lines; Oil leaks valve cover and pcv system; Check engine light and stored codes; Turbo boost and hesitation on test drive; Oil change records; 6 speed automatic shift quality; AWD operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and bluetooth; Maintenance history.
2017 Buick Encore
The 2017 Encore got a refresh: new headlights and bumpers, LED taillights, and a redesigned dash with an 8-inch touchscreen and smartphone integration. The 153-hp direct-injection 1.4L turbo with stop-start became available on most trims beyond the base model; the 138-hp engine remains. Trims run from Preferred to Essence and Premium.
- Engines: 1.4 liter turbo I4 138 hp 148 lb ft; 1.4 liter turbo direct injection I4 153 hp available
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door subcompact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Refreshed front and rear styling with LED taillights
- Redesigned dashboard with 8 inch touchscreen
- Venti ports removed
- 153 hp engine with stop start available on most trims
- New trim lineup preferred sport touring essence premium
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Engine stop start operation if equipped; Coolant leaks water pump thermostat and turbo lines; Oil leaks valve cover and pcv system; Check engine light and stored codes; Turbo boost and hesitation on test drive; Oil change records; 6 speed automatic shift quality; AWD operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and bluetooth; Maintenance history.
2016 Buick Encore
For 2016 Buick added the Encore Sport Touring with a stronger direct-injection 1.4L turbo rated 153 hp (about 27/33 mpg FWD), plus 18-inch wheels and other extras. Other trims keep the 138-hp 1.4L turbo. Both use a 6-speed automatic with FWD or AWD. The 153-hp engine makes the Encore noticeably livelier, so confirm which engine a car has by VIN.
- Engines: 1.4 liter turbo I4 138 hp 148 lb ft; 1.4 liter turbo direct injection I4 153 hp available
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door subcompact crossover SUV
What changed:
- New sport touring trim
- Available 153 hp direct injection 1.4 liter turbo
- 18 inch wheels on sport touring
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Coolant leaks water pump thermostat and turbo lines; Oil leaks valve cover and pcv system; Check engine light and stored codes; Turbo boost and hesitation on test drive; Oil change records; 6 speed automatic shift quality; AWD operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and bluetooth; Maintenance history.
2015 Buick Encore
The 2015 Encore is a carryover with the 138-hp 1.4L turbo four, 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 25/33 mpg FWD). It is the last year offered only with the base engine; a stronger 153-hp engine arrived for 2016. A well-kept 2013-2015 Encore is the budget way into a small Buick crossover.
- Engines: 1.4 liter turbo I4 138 hp 148 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door subcompact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Last year with only the 138 hp engine
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Coolant leaks water pump thermostat and turbo lines; Oil leaks valve cover and pcv system; Check engine light and stored codes; Turbo boost and hesitation on test drive; Oil change records; 6 speed automatic shift quality; AWD operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and bluetooth; Maintenance history.
2014 Buick Encore
The 2014 Encore carries over the original formula: a 138-hp 1.4L turbo four, 6-speed automatic, FWD or AWD, and a compact, upscale cabin (about 25/33 mpg FWD). Trims include the base model plus Convenience, Leather and Premium. Check the 1.4T for coolant and oil leaks, and confirm early-build recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 1.4 liter turbo I4 138 hp 148 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door subcompact crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2013
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Coolant leaks water pump thermostat and turbo lines; Oil leaks valve cover and pcv system; Check engine light and stored codes; Turbo boost and hesitation on test drive; Oil change records; 6 speed automatic shift quality; AWD operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and bluetooth; Maintenance history.
2013 Buick Encore
The 2013 Encore launched as Buick's first small crossover, built in South Korea and related to the Chevrolet Trax. Every one uses a 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder (138 hp, 148 lb-ft) with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD, rated about 25/33 mpg city/highway with FWD. It is easy to park and quiet inside but leisurely when accelerating.
- Engines: 1.4 liter turbo I4 138 hp 148 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door subcompact crossover SUV
What changed:
- All new subcompact luxury crossover
- 1.4 liter turbo with 6 speed automatic
- FWD or AWD
- Quiet tuning with active noise cancellation
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Coolant leaks water pump thermostat and turbo lines; Oil leaks valve cover and pcv system; Check engine light and stored codes; Turbo boost and hesitation on test drive; Oil change records; 6 speed automatic shift quality; AWD operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Infotainment and bluetooth; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- 1.4L Turbo Coolant Leaks (2013–2022)
The Encore's 1.4L turbo engine family is known for coolant leaks as mileage builds, commonly from the water pump, thermostat housing or turbocharger coolant lines. Low coolant can lead to overheating, so it is worth checking.
What to do: Check the coolant level and look for residue around the engine; documented cooling repairs are a plus. - 1.4L Turbo PCV System and Oil Leaks (2013–2022)
The 1.4L turbo's PCV (crankcase ventilation) system, built into the valve cover on many engines, can fail and cause oil leaks, a whistling noise, rough idle or lean-condition trouble codes. Valve cover replacement is a common repair on higher-mileage Encores.
What to do: Listen for a whistle at idle, look for oil around the valve cover, and scan for stored codes. - Transmission Stop/Start Accumulator Recall (2019-2020) (2019–2020)
Recall 20V-668 includes certain 2019-2020 Encores: the transmission's stop/start accumulator end cap may be missing bolts, which can leak transmission fluid. Dealers inspect and replace the accumulator if needed, at no charge.
What to do: Confirm the accumulator recall is complete on an affected 2019-2020 Encore. - Early-Build and Airbag-Related Recalls (2013–2017)
Several recalls apply to specific Encore builds, including a 2013 heated-steering-wheel fastener recall (13V-105), a 2013-2014 AWD electrical recall (14V-417) and an airbag-related campaign covering some 2014-2017 Encores (17V-437). Applicability depends on the VIN and production date.
What to do: Run the VIN and have any open recall completed before purchase. - Turbo and Direct-Injection Maintenance (2013–2022)
Small turbocharged engines are sensitive to on-time oil changes with the correct oil specification. The direct-injection 1.4L (153-155 hp) can also build intake-valve carbon over time. Hesitation, misfires or a check-engine light deserve a closer look.
What to do: Favor Encores with regular oil changes using oil that meets GM's specification. - Encore vs. Encore GX and Envista (2013–2022)
This record covers the original 2013-2022 Encore. The Encore GX (2020 and later) is a larger, different vehicle with 1.2L and 1.3L turbo three-cylinder engines, and the Envista (2024 and later) is another separate model. Listings sometimes label an Encore GX simply as 'Encore'.
What to do: Confirm by VIN whether the vehicle is an Encore or an Encore GX before comparing prices or specs.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, drivetrain and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls and completed remedies.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Chevrolet Trax
- Buick Encore GX
- Honda HR-V
- Mazda CX-3
- Jeep Renegade
- Subaru Crosstrek
- Hyundai Kona
- Nissan Kicks
- Mini Countryman
Questions this guide answers
- Is this an Encore or an Encore GX?
- What engine does this Buick Encore have?
- Which Encore years have the 153-hp engine?
- What changed in the 2017 Encore refresh?
- What fuel economy does the Encore get?
- What should I inspect on a used Encore's 1.4L turbo?
- When was the Encore discontinued?
- What recalls should I check by VIN?
- Is the Encore available with all-wheel drive?
- What similar vehicles should I consider?