Used Buick Encore buyers should be aware of which model years to avoid. The subcompact SUV is generally highly reliable, but there have been some years in which it has complained about recurring issues.
Based on reported problems, recalls, and owners’ feedback, this article provides an informed guide on which Buick Encore years to avoid. You can avoid costly repairs in the future by becoming aware of the issues with certain model years prior to making a purchase.
Buick Encore overview
There is nothing more stylish and compact than the Buick Encore crossover SUV. It was in 2012 that the brand’s production began, therefore it has been around for a while. There is a lot to like about the Buick Encore besides the posh cabin, what it offers is a smooth ride and comfortable seating, so this SUV combines comfort with affordability. It is imperative to know which model years you should avoid when purchasing this vehicle, even though this vehicle is generally reliable.
The Most Dangerous Buick Encore Years
Buick Encore models from 2013-2017 should be avoided. As the car’s model year approaches, there has been a spike in complaints regarding its engine, battery, safety features, braking, airbags, and electronic systems. Complaints have been particularly frequent for these model years. Several problems have persisted over multiple model years, while others have occurred only in a particular year. For the sake of avoiding future headaches and costly repairs, you should avoid these models.
1. Buick Encore 2013
It was reported that the engine of the 2013 Buick Encore was susceptible to severe problems. There were several recalls due to poor acceleration, power loss, and even engine failures experienced by owners. As well as electrical glitches, other issues related to the interior quality were reported. This model year is quite unfavorable as a result of the severity of these issues.
- Engine Troubles: There are a number of problems associated with this model. The engine’s power is low, acceleration is poor, and the turbocharger fails.
- Recalls: Problems associated with the engine forced the manufacturer to recall the model numerous times.
2. Buick Encore 2014
Despite fixing some engine issues from the 2013 Buick Encore, new ones were discovered with the 2014 Encore. Several owners complained that their batteries were draining, and some ended up with dead ones.
Additionally, this model year had numerous airbag and seat belt recalls that left owners susceptible to safety concerns. In addition, the brakes of the new Encore models have been reported to have a defect, adding to general concerns about the reliability of the 2014 models.
- Battery Issues: Users complained that the battery drains fast and must be replaced frequently.
- Safety Issues: There were recalls of the airbags and seatbelts, which raised questions about the safety of the model.
- Other Problems: The interior was damaged and there were brake problems as well.
3. 2015 Buick Encore
2015 Buick Encores still suffered from engine and battery problems. A braking issue emerged, as the owners complained of problems with the brakes on this car. Radios and other electronic devices have a tendency to malfunction, which is another issue raised. It’s better to avoid this model as well because of these recurring problems.
- Brake Problems: Defective brakes caused a lot of complaints from vehicle owners.
- Engine Problems: Similar to the 2013 and 2014 models, this model year is plagued with ongoing engine issues.
- Electrical Issues: Owners continued to experience battery problems and radio malfunctions.
4. 2016 Buick Encore
However, there were still some problems with the 2016 Buick Encore. Firstly, some owners still experienced engine issues, despite improvements compared to previous years. In addition to airbag recalls this year, safety features also came under scrutiny. Compared to the early models, the 2016 Encore has some risk, but it’s better than the early models.
- Engine Issues: The engine has been reported as having problems by owners. There may have been a lesser degree of this problem on the newer models, although it was present.
- Safety Recalls: A number of airbag recalls were issued for this model year, which highlighted safety concerns.
5. 2017 Buick Encore
A number of the problems that were highlighted in earlier Buick Encore models were still present in the 2017 model. A lack of power or hesitation was reported by the owners as an issue with the engine’s performance. There was also a depiction of malfunctioning airbags, indicating that security might be compromised. This year’s model may not have as many of them, but they’re still annoying.
- Performance: The engine has been complained about as being underpowered.
- Airbag Concerns: This model year again experienced a problem with airbag deployment.
Year-by-year Buick Encore model comparison
Compact SUV drivers love the Buick Encore, but not all models. To be fully informed, one must be able to evaluate a wide variety of options available on the market. Here’s a breakdown of Buick Encore model years so you don’t have to deal with headaches.
- 2016 Buick Encore: There are a few shortcomings to this model, but overall it’s an upgrade over previous models.
- 2018 Buick Encore: Recalls and complaints have decreased. Performance-wise, this model is moderately reliable and performs moderately in comparison to the rest of the series.
- 2019 Buick Encore: Among the 2019 Buick Encore models, the Encore is one of the most improved models. In comparison with previous models, this one has a few problems.
- 2020 Buick Encore: The reports are that the 2020 Buick Encore has very few issues, after undergoing a redesign, and has emerged as a top contender for new features and reliability.
- 2021 Model: Improved performance and reliability have been added in the 2021 model, which is still not considered as the best among previous models.
All years of the Buick Encore have the same common problems
There are recurring problems with Buick Encores across a variety of model years, so you should be aware of these before you buy one. There have been multiple reports of engines not working, airbags not working, brakes not working, and batteries that don’t last. Making an informed decision and avoiding headaches is easier when you know what the common issues are.
1. Problems with the engine
Most Buick Encore models, especially those from earlier production years, have reported many engine problems throughout the years. It is common for the engine to experience stalling, poor acceleration, and excessive exhaust fumes. Those models from 2013 and 2017 are the worst to buy in this situation. Safety concerns, including fires, have sometimes resulted from this.
2. Defective air bags and seatbelts
It has been reported that the airbags and seatbelts on most Encore models are faulty. Several of these Encores were recalled for having faulty airbag sensors for model years 2015 through 2017. These model years could have major safety problems because of this, like airbags not deploying or seat belt tensioners not working.
3. Brake issues
There were a lot of problems with the braking system in the 2015 Buick Encore. It’s dangerous to cause an accident because there are strange noises and insufficient force. Especially in low-mileage cars, this can be tricky.
4. Battery that is faulty
There have also been complaints about battery failures in the 2014 Buick Encore. Battery life is incredibly inconvenient, not to mention frustrating, for many owners who complain that their batteries die every few weeks. In this case, the problem is associated with electrical system problems that are affecting this vehicle model and require expensive repairs.
5. Problems with radios
A common issue with the radio is problems with the display and volume settings, particularly on the 2015 MY. None of these problems pose a major threat to the functioning of the vehicle. Despite this, they can be irritating and often indicate that there is something wrong with the vehicle’s electrical system.
6. Faulty turbochargers
There have been a few problems with the turbochargers on a 2013 Buick Encore. Usually, you’ll start hearing strange engine sounds around 94,000 miles after the car has been driven for a while. Turbochargers can be expensive to fix.
Remember these other things
Depending on the vehicle’s history of maintenance, ownership, and maintenance, the reliability of a used Buick Encore will be determined. One may be able to call a trouble-free car even if it has received good service and been well maintained.
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Repairs Most Commonly Needed
In order to understand the forthcoming maintenance budget for a Buick Encore, we need to understand common costs associated with a Buick Encore. A common maintenance procedure involves changing the oil, changing the brake pads, and replacing the tyres on a regular basis.
Knowing which Buick Encore models have faulty issues is essential to buying the right one. By following “Buick Encore Years to Avoid,” you can avoid unnecessary expensive repairs and enjoy a good ownership experience through 2013, 2014, 2015, and even 2017.
The best model year requires thorough research and inspection. See if these more dependable options are available in these problematic years.
