What are the most common Buick Encore problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2018 Buick Encore has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Encore 1.4L Turbo (LUJ/LUV) Timing Chain Stretch, Turbocharger / Oil Supply Line Failure Causing Sudden Loss of Power, 6T40 Automatic Transmission Hard Shifting, Shudder and Slipping. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Buick Encore reliable?
The 2018 Buick Encore has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Encore 1.4L Turbo (LUJ/LUV) Timing Chain Stretch 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. The most critical issue, Encore 1.4L Turbo (LUJ/LUV) Timing Chain Stretch, typically costs $1,200-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
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 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.
