According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2013-2023 Buick Encore has 10 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are 2019 Encore Air Bag Non-Deployment - SDM Not Taken Out of Manufacturing Mode, Encore 1.4L Turbo (LUJ/LUV) Timing Chain Stretch ($1,200-$4,000 repair), Encore GX (2020+) Three-Cylinder Turbo Stalling and Low-Oil-Pressure ECM Recall, Encore GX Transmission Shudder, Jerking and Solenoid Faults ($300-$4,000 repair), Engine Stalling and Sudden Power Loss While Driving (Early Models) ($300-$1,000 repair) and Turbocharger / Oil Supply Line Failure Causing Sudden Loss of Power ($1,200-$3,000 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $4,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
The 1.4L Turbo LUJ (2011-2015) and LUV (2016+) in Encore — and shared Chevy Cruze/Sonic/Trax — develops timing chain stretch typically between 80,000-130,000 miles. Cold-start rattle, then misfire codes, then risk of chain skip. Same engine family used in Opel Astra J (Astra Adam Mokka — see prior Opel issues).
Full chain kit including chain, tensioner, guides, sprockets ($1,200-$2,000). Use dexos1 full-synthetic 5W-30 and stick to 5,000-mile intervals — extended OLM intervals are the dominant cause. Catastrophic chain skip means head rebuild ($3,500+).
The second-generation Encore GX uses 1.2L and 1.3L turbocharged three-cylinder engines and has drawn complaints of reduced engine power, stalling, and lurching. GM issued a recall in which the engine control module (ECM) could fail to clear the permanent status of DTC P0521 (engine oil pressure sensor performance), masking a real low-oil-pressure condition; the remedy is an ECM reprogram. Owners also report elevated oil consumption on these small turbo engines.
Have the ECM reprogrammed under the GM recall to ensure low-oil-pressure conditions (P0521) are properly flagged. Diagnose stalling/power-loss with a scan tool. Monitor oil level frequently given the small-displacement turbo's sensitivity to low oil.
What you need to diagnose it
The repair instructions explicitly call for reading stored codes. Use a scanner that can read the named code families before choosing a repair.The recommended scanner supports these code families; confirm your exact year, model and module coverage before buying.
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Reading and clearing the code is DIY work. Module replacement or reprogramming is not — most modules are VIN-programmed, so a new one does nothing until a shop codes it to your car. Check for an open recall or service bulletin before buying anything.
The 2013-2015 Encore generated hundreds of NHTSA complaints for engine stalling and abrupt loss of power, including incidents at highway speed where the vehicle decelerated unexpectedly. Owners report rough idle, hesitation, misfires, and the "engine power reduced" message, often traced to sensor faults, throttle body issues, or turbo-related underboost. Multiple reports note the problem recurring even after throttle body or sensor replacement, creating a serious safety hazard in traffic.
Diagnose with a scan tool to isolate the trigger (camshaft/crankshaft position sensors, throttle body, turbo underboost, or misfire). Common repairs include throttle body replacement, sensor replacement, and addressing the turbo/PCV issues above. Apply current GM software updates, as some driveability concerns were addressed via ECM reprogramming.
What you need to diagnose it
The repair instructions explicitly call for reading stored codes. Use a scanner that can read the named code families before choosing a repair.The recommended scanner supports these code families; confirm your exact year, model and module coverage before buying.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate and may vary.
Reading and clearing the code is DIY work. Module replacement or reprogramming is not — most modules are VIN-programmed, so a new one does nothing until a shop codes it to your car. Check for an open recall or service bulletin before buying anything.
The 1.4L turbo Encore is known for turbocharger failures, often tied to the turbo oil feed/supply line, that cause a sudden loss of power while driving and a persistent check engine light. NHTSA complaints document dangerous highway events where the vehicle abruptly lost acceleration. GM later issued a field action/warranty extension covering 2017-2018 Encore turbochargers for 10 years / 120,000 miles, with the repair replacing the turbo assembly and associated oil-feed seals and gaskets.
Replace the turbocharger assembly along with the turbo oil feed pipe seals, oil return pipe gaskets, exhaust/coolant seals, and related hardware per GM's procedure. For 2017-2018 models, check eligibility for the GM turbocharger warranty extension (10 yr / 120,000 mi). Maintain strict oil change intervals to avoid oil-feed line coking that accelerates turbo failure.
Many owners of the 1.4L turbo Encore report the engine consuming oil at an elevated rate between changes, often without an obvious external leak. Low oil levels left unchecked can starve the turbocharger and accelerate engine wear. Consumption is frequently linked to PCV system failure forcing oil through the intake, and to general wear in the LUV/LUJ engine family.
Common Symptoms
Low oil between changes
Oil light or low oil warning
Burning oil smell
Blue exhaust smoke
Frequent need to add oil
How to Fix
Check oil level frequently between changes and top off as needed. Diagnose and repair the PCV/camshaft cover system, which is a common contributor. Perform a documented oil-consumption test at a dealer; persistent high consumption may require valve cover, PCV, or piston ring/seal service.
The 1.4L turbocharged engine (LUV/LUJ family) used in the first-generation Encore is prone to a ruptured PCV pressure-regulator diaphragm built into the plastic camshaft (valve) cover. When the diaphragm cracks, unmetered air enters the intake, producing a loud high-pitched whistle or squeal that owners describe as a boiling tea kettle under the hood, along with rough idle and stalling at stops. GM acknowledged the defect with Special Coverage N202299080, extending warranty on the PCV/camshaft cover to 10 years / 120,000 miles for certain 2014 Encore (and related Cruze/Sonic/Trax) vehicles.
Replace the camshaft (valve) cover, which contains the integrated PCV diaphragm; many owners upgrade to a revised cover. The root-cause check valve in the intake manifold should also be addressed (replace manifold or install an external check-valve/PCV bypass kit) to prevent turbo boost from over-pressurizing the crankcase. Check eligibility under GM Special Coverage N202299080.
The Encore GX has frequent transmission complaints of shuddering, slipping, jerking, and lurching during acceleration, especially in 2021-2023 model years. Causes documented by owners and GM bulletins include defective shift solenoids producing erratic or rough shifts and failing torque converters causing shudder; some 2021 units required full transmission replacement. A separate GM fix addresses out-of-spec clutch retaining rings on certain later units.
Common Symptoms
Shuddering / shaking on acceleration
Jerking and lurching while driving
Slipping or hesitation
Rough or erratic shifting
Failure to engage correct gear
How to Fix
Diagnose with a scan tool for solenoid and torque-converter fault codes. Repairs range from shift-solenoid replacement and a torque-converter clutch service to torque converter or full transmission replacement in severe cases. Check for applicable GM service bulletins and lemon-law/warranty coverage on repeat failures.
First-generation Encores with the 6T40/6T45 6-speed automatic are reported to develop harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, and a shudder or surge particularly around the 2nd/6th gear range. A common cause is debris blocking the oil passage that feeds the 2-6 clutch regulator valve, along with worn fluid, failing shift solenoids, and torque-converter lockup shudder. NHTSA powertrain complaints span the early-to-mid model years.
Common Symptoms
Harsh or delayed shifts
Slipping between gears
Shudder or surge on acceleration
Flare into 2nd/6th gear
Jerking / lurching
How to Fix
Service the transmission with the correct fluid; for shudder, a torque-converter clutch fluid/flush or solenoid replacement may help. Persistent 2-6 slip/flare typically requires valve body/channel-plate cleaning or rebuild. Confirm GM software calibration is current, as updated shift logic addressed some complaints.
Certain 2019 Buick Encore crossovers are covered by GM safety recall 18V774000 (GM number 18365). On these vehicles the Sensing Diagnostic Module - the air bag control module - may still be in "manufacturing mode," the setting used during vehicle assembly, rather than the normal operating mode. An Encore in that condition may not deploy its air bags in a crash, and GM states this increases the risk of injury. The campaign is very small: 12 vehicles across all of the models included (Buick Encore plus the Chevrolet Spark, Traverse and Trax), a figure that applies to the whole campaign and not to the Encore alone.
Common Symptoms
Air bags may not deploy in a crash
How to Fix
Buick dealers will reprogram the SDM to the correct mode free of charge; the recall began November 6, 2018. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see whether your specific Encore is included and whether the remedy has already been performed, or contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 and reference recall 18365.
Certain 2022 Buick Encore (and 2022-2023 Envision) models can experience evaporative-emissions purge pump failures that trigger a check engine light, cause emissions-test failures, reduce fuel efficiency, and may create driveability concerns. GM issued a special coverage adjustment extending warranty on the purge pump, reportedly up to 15 years / 150,000 miles, with reimbursement for owners who previously paid for the repair.
Common Symptoms
Check engine light
Failed emissions / smog test
Reduced fuel economy
Minor driveability concerns
How to Fix
Replace the EVAP purge pump under GM's special coverage / warranty extension (up to 15 yr / 150,000 mi). Owners who already paid out of pocket may be eligible for reimbursement. Confirm exact eligibility and codes with a GM dealer.
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.
Campaign #20V53700003/09/2020
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
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.
Campaign #20V66800029/10/2020
AIR BAGS
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.
Campaign #18V77400001/11/2018
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According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2013-2023 Buick Encore has 10 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 2019 Encore Air Bag Non-Deployment - SDM Not Taken Out of Manufacturing Mode, Encore 1.4L Turbo (LUJ/LUV) Timing Chain Stretch, Encore GX (2020+) Three-Cylinder Turbo Stalling and Low-Oil-Pressure ECM Recall. Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Buick Encore reliable?
The 2013-2023 Buick Encore has 10 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 6 issues are rated critical: 2019 Encore Air Bag Non-Deployment - SDM Not Taken Out of Manufacturing Mode and Encore 1.4L Turbo (LUJ/LUV) Timing Chain Stretch and Encore GX (2020+) Three-Cylinder Turbo Stalling and Low-Oil-Pressure ECM Recall and Encore GX Transmission Shudder, Jerking and Solenoid Faults and Engine Stalling and Sudden Power Loss While Driving (Early Models) and Turbocharger / Oil Supply Line Failure Causing Sudden Loss of Power. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Buick Encore problems?
Repair costs for known Buick Encore issues range from $150 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Buick Encore is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Buick Encore. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2013-2023 Buick Encore with 10 documented issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports.
What is the 2019 Buick Encore 2019 Encore Air Bag Non-Deployment - SDM Not Taken Out of Manufacturing Mode?
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
Certain 2019 Buick Encore crossovers are covered by GM safety recall 18V774000 (GM number 18365). On these vehicles the Sensing Diagnostic Module - the air bag control module - may still be in "manufacturing mode," the setting used during vehicle assembly, rather than the normal… Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2022 Buick Encore Encore 1.4L Turbo (LUJ/LUV) Timing Chain Stretch?
The 1.4L Turbo LUJ (2011-2015) and LUV (2016+) in Encore — and shared Chevy Cruze/Sonic/Trax — develops timing chain stretch typically between 80,000-130,000 miles. Cold-start rattle, then misfire codes, then risk of chain skip. Same engine family used in Opel Astra J (Astra Adam… Repairs typically run $1,200-$4,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2023 Buick Encore Encore GX (2020+) Three-Cylinder Turbo Stalling and Low-Oil-Pressure ECM Recall?
The second-generation Encore GX uses 1.2L and 1.3L turbocharged three-cylinder engines and has drawn complaints of reduced engine power, stalling, and lurching. GM issued a recall in which the engine control module (ECM) could fail to clear the permanent status of DTC P0521 (engi… Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2023 Buick Encore Encore GX Transmission Shudder, Jerking and Solenoid Faults?
The Encore GX has frequent transmission complaints of shuddering, slipping, jerking, and lurching during acceleration, especially in 2021-2023 model years. Causes documented by owners and GM bulletins include defective shift solenoids producing erratic or rough shifts and failing… Repairs typically run $300-$4,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2015 Buick Encore Engine Stalling and Sudden Power Loss While Driving (Early Models)?
The 2013-2015 Encore generated hundreds of NHTSA complaints for engine stalling and abrupt loss of power, including incidents at highway speed where the vehicle decelerated unexpectedly. Owners report rough idle, hesitation, misfires, and the "engine power reduced" message, often… Repairs typically run $300-$1,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2018 Buick Encore Turbocharger / Oil Supply Line Failure Causing Sudden Loss of Power?
The 1.4L turbo Encore is known for turbocharger failures, often tied to the turbo oil feed/supply line, that cause a sudden loss of power while driving and a persistent check engine light. NHTSA complaints document dangerous highway events where the vehicle abruptly lost accelera… Repairs typically run $1,200-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2018 Buick Encore 6T40 Automatic Transmission Hard Shifting, Shudder and Slipping?
First-generation Encores with the 6T40/6T45 6-speed automatic are reported to develop harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, and a shudder or surge particularly around the 2nd/6th gear range. A common cause is debris blocking the oil passage that feeds the 2-6 clutch regulator valve,… Repairs typically run $200-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2013-2021 Buick Encore Excessive Oil Consumption (1.4L Turbo)?
Many owners of the 1.4L turbo Encore report the engine consuming oil at an elevated rate between changes, often without an obvious external leak. Low oil levels left unchecked can starve the turbocharger and accelerate engine wear. Consumption is frequently linked to PCV system f… Severity: medium.
What is the 2013-2021 Buick Encore PCV / Camshaft Cover Diaphragm Failure (1.4L Turbo) - "Tea Kettle" Whistle?
The 1.4L turbocharged engine (LUV/LUJ family) used in the first-generation Encore is prone to a ruptured PCV pressure-regulator diaphragm built into the plastic camshaft (valve) cover. When the diaphragm cracks, unmetered air enters the intake, producing a loud high-pitched whist… Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2022 Buick Encore EVAP Purge Pump Failure (2022 Encore) - Warranty Extension?
Certain 2022 Buick Encore (and 2022-2023 Envision) models can experience evaporative-emissions purge pump failures that trigger a check engine light, cause emissions-test failures, reduce fuel efficiency, and may create driveability concerns. GM issued a special coverage adjustme… Severity: low.
